Halstead care home takes part in RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch

Residents at Care UK’s Colne View in Dame Mary Walk took part in the world’s largest annual wildlife survey with the help of two feathered friends, Casper the barn owl and Mabel the harris hawk.

The residents, who had been keen to learn more about the surrounding nature, set about making the home’s garden a paradise for all birds big and small, making sure feeders were topped up with the tastiest treats.

They also enjoyed an educational meet-and-greet with Casper and Mabel, from Owls and Birds of Prey Rescue, Halstead.

The RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch encourages people throughout the UK to take a closer look at the nature on their doorsteps.

This can be done 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.

Dame Mary Walk in Halstead, which houses Colne View (Image: Google)

 72-year-old Peter Kluss, a resident at Colne View, said: “I have always enjoyed birdwatching and am passionate about making sure the garden here attracts all kinds of birds.

 “It was wonderful to see Casper and Mabel up close and learn all about them”

Monica Boldeata, home manager at Colne View, added: “As well as supporting the RSPB, the Big Garden Birdwatch was also a brilliant opportunity for residents to share their knowledge with one another – and meeting Casper and Mabel was definitely a bonus too.

 “Here at Colne View, we’re passionate about supporting fulfilling lives, and ensuring residents are able to maintain their hobbies is a huge part of that.

"We have many residents who love birdwatching and we even have photographs from resident wildlife expert, Peter, dotted around the home for everyone to enjoy

“We were delighted to be part of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch and I’d like to extend a big thank you to Kala and John from Owls and Birds of Prey Rescue for bringing Casper and Mabel along to join in the fun."