A CARE home is gearing up to take part in an annual birdwatching event.

Residents from Colne View care home in Dame Mary Walk, Halstead, are preparing for the world's largest wildlife survey, organised by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

The home has invited Kala Dowsett, known locally as the Owl Lady, to join them for the birdwatch.

Mrs Dowsett, who has set up a rescue centre for birds in her home, will be presenting a variety of birds to Colne View residents.

Home manager Omar Taylor said: "Spending time outdoors is important for physical and mental wellbeing, and has many benefits for older people, particularly for those who are living with dementia.

"Birdwatching helps bring nature to life, offering colourful sights and sensory stimulation.

"The sounds of bird song and the appearance of different species can also help bring memories to the surface and act as a valuable reminiscence activity.

"If it’s not too cold outside, birdwatching is an accessible activity that all abilities can enjoy, whether simply sitting in the garden and taking in the sights and sounds of the birds, or filling the bird feeder.

"We really enjoyed taking part in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch last year so can’t wait to grab our binoculars and start twitching again."

The Big Garden Birdwatch encourages people in the UK to take a closer look at the nature on their doorsteps by counting the different birds, as well as recording any non-bird species such as badgers and hedgehogs, which visit their garden in any one hour.

The event runs from January 28 to January 30.

For more information visit careuk.com/birdwatch.