Blackbird tops pupils' spotting list
Blackbirds have taken the top spot among those seen most often in schools grounds, a new survey has revealed.
Previously the starling has claimed the number one spot since the Big Schools' Birdwatch began eight years ago and last year Blackbirds came in third place.
As many as 1,400 schoolchildren and teachers from more than 30 schools in Worcestershire were among those who took part in the Birdwatch event between January 19 and January 30.
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Birdwatch manager Laura Osborne, said: "The number of people taking part this year smashed all targets and means that lots more children enjoyed the wildlife with whom they share their school grounds.
"By watching and recording all the birds they see, children are learning about their behaviour and contributing to a valuable UK-wide survey.
"Each school counts, the results fed back allow us to keep an eye on birds that are in decline and spot species that are doing well.
"Other movers and shakers in the survey were the carrion crow, which moved from number six to number three, and the black-headed gull which dropped to fifth position from second place last year.
"Wildlife can thrive in school grounds and children are seeing a greater mix than ever before. Playing fields offer a surprising amount of food for birds to forage and species like gulls gather in groups and stamp the ground to bring invertebrates to the surface.
"The black-headed gull, which hardly ever appears in gardens, also likes big, damp grassy areas where lots of worms are available.
"It is brilliant to know that we have gained this information through the eyes of children. The Big Schools' Birdwatch often inspires a lifelong interest in nature.
"It is fascinating to watch birds waddling across the playground, perhaps stopping for a drink and tugging a worm out of a field.
"It's a great way to engage children with nature without sitting at a desk and looking through books.
"It is much better to see the real thing."
