SCHOOLS across Worcestershire are being encouraged to take part in a massive online survey of gardens in a bid to map and monitor the wildlife on our doorsteps.

Launched by Natural England, the Big Wildlife Garden is an innovative website which aims to encourage people of all ages to discover how to attract more wildlife into their gardens.

The website offers tips on attracting species, creating habitats and sharing photographs as well as a diary section to monitor species sighted and seasonal changes in your area.

Another key aim is to inspire children to enjoy the natural world and learn how to enrich outdoor spaces. To help achieve this, schools are being encouraged to register online to share their wildlife gardens with others in the ‘virtual’ community as well as competing for wildlife gardening awards.

Roger Owen, West Midlands regional director of Natural England, said: “By registering their grounds and wildlife gardens, schools across Worcestershire can make a real contribution. It doesn’t matter whether your school has a small patio, a playing field or a full blown wildlife garden.

Schools can register at bwg.naturalengland.org.uk.