FARMERS could find themselves £1,000 richer if they help local wildlife.

The RSPB is running a competition to get bird-friendly farmers to encourage lapwings to breed on their land.

Once common, distinctive black and white lapwings, which have a metallic green sheen, have dropped in number by about half in the past 25 years. Their decline is mainly due to changes in farming, the development of countryside and drainage of wet meadows.

However, farmers can provide perfect nesting and feeding areas for adult birds and their chicks. An area of bare ground is ideal for lapwings to scrape out their nest and wet grass and patches of mud will provide them with a good supply of insects and worms to eat.

The RSPB aims to seek out the farms which are doing the most to help the species and reward the farmers with cash prizes.

Judging takes place throughout March and April, with the regional winner scooping £200, a place in the national competition and a chance to grab the £1,000 national prize.

To enter contact Nick Droy, RSPB conservation officer, on 01295 676460 or nick.droy@rspb.org.uk The closing date is Friday, March 16.