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RESIDENTS across the region have helped compile results for this year's RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch in Essex which puts the starling in top place with an average of 5.13 per garden.

In second place is the house sparrow, on 4.24 per garden, followed by the collared dove in third place at 2.60.

Essex's Big Garden Birdwatch 2008 has recorded a continued decline in our most common birds, but there is little change in the top ten species.

More than 15,000 people from Essex conducted the RSPB's annual survey across 8,000 gardens on January 26 and 27. Comparing this year's results with those from previous years gives a snapshot of how birds are faring in the county.

"What these figures tell us is that Essex has a remarkable range of garden birds with more than 30 different species found. But," warns RSPB Community Project Manager Fiona Hazelton. "We are concerned at the continuing fall in the number of starlings and house sparrows. These are our most common birds but they're vanishing, mostly as a result of a lack of food and shelter."

The answer lies in managing gardens for wildlife. Growing plants that provide both food and shelter for wildlife would help, as well as putting up nestboxes and providing drinking water.

"Having birds flit past your windows and insects buzzing round your flowerbeds is what it's all about," says Fiona.

"Waking up to the dawn chorus raises the spirits and I find watching wildlife incredibly relaxing after a day's work. Gardening for wildlife is rewarding when you see the results of your labours, it's also a good physical workout and you can grow your own food."

11:31am Thursday 27th March 2008

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