COUNT - Take part in bird count

The initiative, which is organised by the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT), takes place between February 6-14.

Over 950 farmers, managing nearly one million acres of farmland, took part in the count last year and identified 127 different species, including some of conservation concern such as lapwings and tree sparrows.

The CLA, which represents landowners, farmers and rural businesses, is an active supporter of the initiative.

The count only takes 30 minutes and is best done at first light when the birds are most active.

The GWCT also recommends choosing a location with a good view of around two hectares of land.

Once the count is complete, the results can be uploaded

to the GWCT website, along with a few details about the location and weather conditions.

For more information on the Big Farmland Bird Count, go to: www.gwct.org.uk/bfbc.

Martin Betts

by email