FOUR chirpy chicks have proved they are top birds - after becoming the first offspring of avocets in Worcestershire.

This was the first time that avocets have bred in Worcestershire and the birth marked the most successful inland breeding site recorded in this country.

The nesting site for the avocets was kept safe, thanks to dedicated volunteers and staff members from Worcestershire Wildlife Trust's Upton Warren Nature Reserve.

The round-the-clock guard took place for five weeks to prevent unscrupulous egg collectors raiding the nest.

News that the avocets were sitting on eggs was kept secret for their protection and the chicks hatched earlier this week.

Increasing

"This is a really exciting event - avocets normally nest along the North Sea coast from Kent to York and have been increasing in numbers for several years," said John Hodson, reserves assistant for Worcestershire Wildlife Trust.

Avocets are wading birds - largely white with bold black areas on crown, nape, back and wings, with long blue legs.

They have upturned, long, fine bills which the birds sweep from side-to-side when they are feeding.

The chicks are just a few days old and are grey and downy, but they are already searching for food in the shallow water.

Avocets favour saltwater lagoons, and they have found the ideal site at Upton Warren.