Fermanagh Biodiversity Officer, Emma McLaughlin is inviting people to mark the return of Spring by listening out for the familiar call of the cuckoo within the coming weeks.

Ms McLaughlin explained: "This bird, which is about the same size as a dove, arrives in Northern Ireland from Africa between April and May. Cuckoos are experiencing a decline in numbers throughout the UK and Ireland and it is thought that this is due to a loss of their natural habitat.

"It is of great importance that all sightings of this species are recorded as this will enable us to ascertain both where in Fermanagh they are found at present, and the areas in which they are no longer found."

SURVEY

She continued: "In 2007, a cuckoo survey was carried out throughout Northern Ireland. Its aim was to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the status and distribution of the cuckoo in the country. Fermanagh was particularly well represented with regard to records, and it is hoped that this year, the response will be as good, if not better than in 2007".

The cuckoo recording cards can be collected from the Townhall, Enniskillen, the Tourist Information Centre, Enniskillen and the Wildfowl Centre, Lisnaskea.