HOMEOWNERS are likely to have seen fewer birds in their gardens this winter because of the mind weather, says the RSPB.

The charity said bird numbers in gardens could be down because the weather has been mild, which has meant birds not needing to visit gardens to find alternative food sources.

Martin Harper, RSPB conservation director said: “Birds come into gardens for food when they can’t find it in the wider countryside but if insects and berries continue to be available long into winter, numbers visiting gardens may be down.”