GARDENERS will be keeping their eye on the birds this weekend as part of a national project to log the species in our cities and countryside.

In Derby, the council's WildDerby project and local RSPB group are hosting a range of activities.

Derby's Garden Bird Bonanza will take place in front of the Big Screen in the city's Market Place on Saturday.

Visitors can make their own bird-feeder, take part in competitions and quizzes, meet the barn owls and go on a bird walk at noon and 2pm.

The RSPB Derby branch will be selling bird food to raise funds for its work, as well as providing lots of free information and tips for attracting garden birds.

Councillor Matthew Holmes, cabinet member for planning and environment, said: "Urban areas are known to have a high level of biodiversity and lots of wildlife that goes unseen, so this is a really good chance to start noticing the nature around you and get expert knowledge from the RSPB.

"I remember being fascinated by the varied wildlife in my back garden as a child and really enjoying learning about it all from a book I'd been given as a gift.

"I would have enjoyed an event like this to learn more and take part in the activities that are planned.

"I know children will find the event fascinating and fun.

"This event will be a great opportunity to find out how people of all ages can help the wildlife around us and learn more about our local environment."