People all across the county will be flocking to their gardens this weekend for the Big Garden Birdwatch.

Last year, thousands of people in Kent took part in the annual RSPB event, spotting plenty of different species in their gardens.

The humble house sparrow was the most seen of all birds – cropping up in great numbers in 67% of gardens. But there were many other species too, with the tiny wren coming in at No.20 in 26% of gardens.

The long tailed tit was a new entry to the Top 10 across the UK, although came in at No.14 in Kent.

Daniel Hayhow, RSPB conservation scientist, said: “With over half a million people now regularly taking part, coupled with more than 30 years worth of data, Big Garden Birdwatch allows us to monitor trends and helps us understand how birds are doing.

“With results from so many gardens, we are able to create a ‘snapshot’ of the birds visiting at this time of year across the UK. Even if you see nothing during your Big Garden Birdwatch hour, that’s important information too, so please let us know.”

But it’s not just birds which Kentish folk told the RSPB they kept their eyes peeled for.

Grey squirrels remained the most common garden visitor for the third year running, with 76% of participants seeing one scurrying across their garden at least once a month.

Foxes were the second most popular visitor with 41% of people catching sight of one in their garden at least once a month this year.

LEARN WITH THE RSPB

You don’t need to go it alone this weekend. On Saturday, January 28 at RSPB Dungeness there’s an event for all the family to help you get ready for the Big Garden Birdwatch.

Between 11am and 1pm, you can learn about attracting birds and other wildlife to your garden, what to feed them and how to identify them. There are also fun activities.

Booking is essential, with the day costing £6 and £3 for children. Call 01797 320588 or email dungeness@rspb.org.uk

You can find the RSPB reserve at Boulderwall Farm, Dungeness Road, Lydd.

GARDEN FACTS

• The first Birdwatch was held in 1979

• The blackbird was the most widespread garden bird seen in 2016, appearing in 88% of gardens, but in much lower numbers than 1979

• You don’t need a garden to take part. Last year people watched birds from parks, balconies, communal gardens and even houseboats

• Gardens cover an estimated 10 million acres of the country but every single green space can make a difference to our wildlife, from a window box full of pollen-rich plants for bumblebees to a small pond with a range of different species.

DETAILS

Big Garden Birdwatch takes place from Saturday, January 28 to Monday, January 30.

For more information, visit rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

Join in on Twitter using #BigGardenBirdwatch