BIRDWATCHERS spotted 25 species on The Moor during their 10th annual event as part of the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch.

During the hour-long event, Friends of The Moor members were supported by the Knutsford Ornithological Society to hear, spot and identify birds.

In a similar event on The Heath, 21 species were spotted – two more than last year.

FoTM secretary Jan McCappin and FoTH's Joy Jones said: "Twenty five species were seen on The Moor, slightly down on last year, possibly because of the chilly wet weather.

"However, there were more actual birds, including 60 blackheaded gulls,  25 mallard ducks, 25 Canada geese,  30 jackdaws and 20 siskins.

"New species seen this year were bullfinch and jay.

"On The Heath, three groups searched in different areas and when results were pooled at the end of the hour, 21 species had been seen, two more than last year.

"Highlights of the birdwatch were the sound and sight  of the woodpecker, three buzzards wheeling overhead and the sight of both nuthatch and treecreeper at the same time."

More information and results are on the groups’ websites.

Both organisations will hold litter picks in March as part of the Great British Spring Clean, FoTM on March 3 and FoTH on March 4. All are welcome with equipment provided.

FoTM hold their annual meeting on March 14 at Knutsford Town Council. Visit friendsof themoor.org.uk or call Jan, 01565 654224.