Care home residents in Weymouth had a busy weekend observing different bird species.

With binoculars at the ready, residents of Anning House, on Cross Road headed down to their garden for a spot of bird watching.

This was part of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch in a series of bird-themed events hosted for them as they also enjoyed a trip to their local RSPB wildlife reserve RSPB Radipole Nature Reserve, where they spent the day spotting birds and other wildlife – they were even visited by a rare, bearded tit.

Michelle Harwood, General Manager at Anning House, said: “Spending time outside and engaging with nature offers many benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing, which is especially important for older people and those living with dementia.

“Birdwatching is a peaceful activity, with vibrant colours and distinctive bird songs providing calming, sensory stimulation. It’s a hobby which residents can enjoy from the comfort of an armchair, no matter what the weather, thanks to our carefully positioned feeders. Everyone enjoyed getting together to count the wildlife in the home’s garden as well as out and about at RSPB Radipole Nature Reserve.

“We were thrilled to be a part of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch again this year, and to contribute to this vital national survey. It was fascinating to learn more about our animal neighbours.”

When they returned from the nature reserve, as part of an art therapy session, the residents made bird boxes and bird feeders to encourage even more feathered friends into the home’s garden.