LOCAL birdwatchers and wildlife explorers are being asked to listen out for "hoots," "twits" and "whoos" in the local countryside.

The distinctive calls of tawny owls, which are at their most vocal during the long winter nights, will give the RSPB valuable insights into where owls are living.

The survey is part of UK Wild - the biggest wildlife survey in Britain.

Tawny owls are the most common owl in Britain and usually nest in trees but they can make a living in farmland, gardens and parks as well woodland.

Worryingly, research has shown that the numbers of tawny owls has dropped by a third in the last 25 years and now the RSPB need help to find out more about these birds.

The owls are notoriously difficult to see but easy to hear which is why the RSPB is asking people to be on the alert.

"The long winter nights makes it an ideal time for people to listen out for calling tawny owls," said youth officer, Kirsten Whittaker. "They are as likely to to be heard calling calling in towns as in the country and we would like to hear from anyone who comes across one. The male call is usually "Whoo-hoo-hoo" while the female is will make the sound "Too-whit, whoo, hoo hoo."

Anyone who hears a hooting tawny owl should send when and where they heard it and any other details to UK Wild Owl Survey, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 2DL. Details should arrive before January 31.