WILDLIFE lovers are invited to go spotting as many birds as they can.

Hundreds, in fact, as it’s nearly time for the Big Garden Birdwatch, the RSPB’s annual survey.

The survey provides the charity with an important snapshot of garden bird populations.

This year marks the 35th year of the event and to celebrate the milestone, wildlife campaigners in Weymouth are inviting people to free events on Saturday, January 25 at the RSPB Wild Weymouth Discovery Centre at Radipole Lake from 8.30am to 3pm.

Weymouth’s RSPB event organiser, Luke Philips, said: “There will be experts on hand and guided walks to help people with bird identification.

“We’ll have bird feeder making going on through the day. In the morning we’ll be doing some bird ringing out on the reserve which will be an amazing chance to see garden birds up close whilst learning all about the science behind bird ringing.”

Discovery centre activities are 10am to 3pm with guided walks on the hour. The last walk is at 2pm. Bird ringing will take place from 8.30am until late morning near the North Hide, although this is weather dependant.

All activities are free and there’s no need to book for anything. For details call 01305 778313.

  •  To take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch in your own home, spend one hour at any time during Big Garden Birdwatch weekend (January 25 and 26) noting the number of each bird species in your garden or local outside space at any time. Submit results to the RSPB online or in the post.

Register now to take part in Big Garden Birdwatch 2014 at rspb.org.uk/birdwatch