A HOTLINE has been opened so that walkers, cyclists and bird watchers in Derbyshire can report sightings of one of the country's rarest species.

The 2010 appeal for hen harrier sightings has been launched by the RSPB in a bid to find out more about the birds in central and northern England.

The charity says the birds of prey are one of the most enigmatic in the UK, with males performing aerobatic "sky dances" in spring as well as passing food to female mates in mid-air.

This is the third consecutive year the RSPB has undertaken the hen harrier survey. Last year there were only six successful nests over the moors of England, the majority being in Lancashire.

The RSPB says the birds are smaller than buzzards but larger than crows. They fly close to the ground.

Peter Robertson, the RSPB's conservation manager for northern England, said: "I hope that anyone lucky enough to spot one of these birds in Derbyshire will take the time to give us a call.

"Reports of hen harriers via the hotline in previous years have contributed vital information that has helped us monitor and protect these rare birds."

The harrier hotline is 0845 4600121 and sightings can also be reported by e-mail at hen harriers@rspb.org.uk including the date and location of the sighting with a six-figure grid reference where possible.