NORTH-EAST cyclists have joined in to help bird lovers with their big bug count.

Throughout this month, the RSPB is asking people to help find out if insect numbers are declining in the UK.

Insects are the staple food of many familiar bird species, and falling bug numbers could be disastrous for birds such as swallows, skylarks and sparrows.

The survey is mainly aimed at car drivers, who are being asked to count the number of insects splattered on their number plates, but cyclists have also offered to help.

RSPB North-East spokesman David Hirst said: "We have had quite a few inquiries from cycling groups about the survey and they are very keen to help us."

The RSPB's Big Bug Count runs until June 30 and the RSPB is asking drivers to count the number of insects squashed on their car number plates (or cycle helmets) after a journey.

Big Bug Count participants will be armed with a "splatometer" to help them count the insect impacts, and data collected from the different areas of the UK will help RSPB scientists build a picture of insect populations across the country.

The reasons why there are believed to be fewer insects around are not yet known but theories include habitat loss and increased use of pesticides.

Big Bug Count survey packs are available free by calling RSPB on 0191-2126100.

Further details about Big Bug Count, log on to the RSPB's website www.rspb.org.uk/bugcount