THE County Museum at Hartlebury Castle will be holding a bird-themed event on Sunday (January 22), in conjunction with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

In preparation for their national Big Garden Birdwatch at the end of the month, the RSPB will be at the museum on Sunday between 11am and 4pm, showing visitors how to identify different birds and giving ideas on how to encourage birds into their own gardens.

There will also be hands-on craft activities and games, including a bird trail and bird quiz and a chance to use binoculars and telescopes to spot and identify birds.

Youngsters can also enjoy making an apple bird feeder and a bird 'blow dart' game to take home.

Pippa Ashmore, museum events officer, said: "It is going to be great working with the RSPB to help families learn more about our feathered friends and to have some fun in the process."

All activities during the event are included in the normal admission fee for the museum - £5 for adults, £2.50 for children and concessions, or a family ticket for £13.

For more information, call the museum on 01299 250416, or visit museumsworcestershire.org.uk. 

The Big Garden Birdwatch is the world's largest wildlife survery. Participants are encouraged to spend one hour recording birds and wildlife seen in their garden or in a park or public place, between January 28, and January 30.

Last year, more than 500,000 people reported more than eight million birds - helping the RSPB to build a picture of garden wildlife across the UK.