A CALL has gone out to farmers in Yorkshire to help take part in a survey on countryside birds.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds is concerned about the decline of some species and is seeking 50 volunteer farms. Participating farmers would be paired with a local RSPB volunteer who will carry out a survey of the farm and record details of birds present.

The survey involves three visits between April and July and farmers will receive a computerised map showing where birds were found. The RSPB says that such birds as the skylark, corn bunting and tree sparrow are in decline and the society hopes the survey will help pinpoint farms where they are still present.

Anyone who would like to find out more about this project should contact the co-ordinator, Mike Pilsworth, on (0191) 212 0353 or e-mail to mike.pilsworth@rspb.org.uk.

Updated: 09:30 Thursday, January 17, 2002