Springtime and it's warmer months are (hopefully) on the way, along with the sights and sounds of nature as everything becomes to wake up from a prolonged wintry hibernation. This month, why not venture out on sunnier days and admire nature up close? I've discovered a brilliant way to understand the birds all about me when I go for a walk.
Pheasants have a distinctive call you're likely to hear in the country
The RSPB site now not only features pictures of and fact-files about the birds we see, but you can also hear a sample of their specific songs. Try listening to a few, and then testing yourself when you go for a walk. Open country and fields are full of sounds you might not hear at home. It's also a great way to familiarise yourself with the calls of various birds, so you can identify who's visiting your garden. The blackbird's song is one of my favourites, just because I know it so well.
The site also offers descriptions of behaviour of the birds, so when walking you can notice and pick out specific types. Have a go at learning their colouring and patterns, so you can impress people with your knowledge. It's great fun for kids, as you can turn it in to a fun challenge of 'Guess That Bird'; get them enthusiastic about the birds around us every day.
And don't forget, you can encourage birds to visit you too! Try putting out nuts, seeds and fat balls, and watch from the comfort of your own home as an array of birds come visit. Make a note of what birds you see, and identify them - it's a great way to get kids to enjoy nature too.
RSPB online bird guide