CHILDREN across the county will be on the lookout for blackbirds, house sparrows and robins as the world’s biggest schools’ wildlife survey takes place this month.

The RSPB Big Schools Birdwatch takes place during the first half of the spring term. It started on Tuesday, January 2 and will continue until February 23.

Children will be putting down their books and will be encouraged to get outside to experience and learn about nature that lives in their community.

The birdwatch involves children spending an hour watching and counting the birds that visit their outdoor space.

The results are sent off to the RSPB and then collated with other results from across the UK

Rebecca Kerfoot, RSPB Big Schools Birdwatch co-ordinator, said: “The Big Schools Birdwatch is the chance for children to get a taste of the wild side where they live and go to school.

“It’s fun, easy and simple to set up; it works for all ages, and even if it’s a dull, rainy January day you can still gaze out of the classroom and see a flash of colour.”

Visit www.rspb.org.uk/fun-and-learning/for-teachers/schools-birdwatch for further details.

If your school is taking part, let us know. Email chief reporter Suzanne Kendrick at suzanne.kendrick@nwn.co.uk