Birdwatchers have spotted the first Longtail of the Spring.

It was seen yesterday near Spittal Pond by Audubon Society member Keith Rossiter.

Andrew Dobson of the Audubon Society said: "This is a little earlier than usual and it is unlikely that many birds will be seen until mid-month. Heralding the arrival of spring, many Longtails will be competing for an ever dwindling number of nest sites.

“Natural events such as hurricanes and the associated storm surge have led to cliff collapse and the destruction of nest holes that had taken years and years to form.

“These events are only likely to occur more frequently with global warming and higher sea level. Humans are the cause of other problems facing the Longtail. Indirectly, the arrival of predators such as rats, cats (especially feral) and dogs have all impacted on breeding success, as has the number of feral pigeons that take over their nest holes.”

He added: “Construction has had a huge effect on the Longtail, in particular, the building of sea-walls. This is an ideal time for anyone who has Longtails regularly nesting on their property to check the nest holes for garbage or pigeons. Ideally the nest hole should have a sandy base.”