MORE than 17,400 people in West Yorkshire participated in this year’s RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.

Overall, more than eight and a half million birds were spotted during January 24 and 25.

Sightings of every bird featured in this year’s national top 20 increased on the numbers recorded in 2014, apart from the three finches, chaffinch, goldfinch and greenfinch - a trend also seen in West Yorkshire with regards to goldfinch and greenfinch. Similar numbers of chaffinch were recorded in West Yorkshire, retaining its 12th position in the regional rankings.

The number of blackbirds in West Yorkshire fell slightly but were seen in 91 per cent of gardens.

RSPB conservation scientist Dr Daniel Hayhow said: “Many garden birds are in desperate need of our help. During winter, birds need extra food and water, a safe place to shelter and make their home.”

For more information about Birdwatch, visit: rspb.org.uk/homes.