BIRDWATCHERS across the county will be polishing their binoculars this weekend for the 30th annual RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.Last year, more than 71,000 people in East Anglia took part by looking out for different species in their gardens, revealing which species are flourishing and which are struggling.

BIRDWATCHERS across the county will be polishing their binoculars this weekend for the 30th annual RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.

Last year, more than 71,000 people in East Anglia took part by looking out for different species in their gardens, revealing which species are flourishing and which are struggling.

The Ipswich local RSPB group are once again staging their main event at the Reg Driver visitor centre in Christchurch Park, Ipswich, on Saturday between 10am and 3pm.

Chris Courtney, Ipswich RSPB group leader, said: “This survey provides valuable information about how individual species are faring from year to year.

“Perhaps the best bit is that it gives hundreds of thousands the chance to connect to the wildlife in their own backyards as well as making a valuable contribution to conservation.”

The group will survey the park's birds as well as providing free garden wildlife information, children's activities and telescopes for viewing bird feeders at Wilderness pond.

The parks' species include the nuthatch, treecreepers, green and great spotted woodpeckers and Mandarin Ducks, as well as the famous Tawny Owl who featured in the Evening Star last month.

To take part, spend one hour this weekend counting the birds in your garden or local park, and record the highest number of each bird species seen at any one time.

Visit www.rspb.org.uk for more information and to submit your results online.