THEY are over-wintering, overwhelmingly attractive and over here.

A wave of invading waxwings has been reported in Country Durham. With their handsome plumage and acrobatic antics among the branches of berry-bearing trees, the birds are a delight to watch.

They are rare visitors from Siberia forced on raiding missions to this country during winter.

Flocks have been reported throughout the region, including recent sightings in Chester-le-Street and Bishop Auckland, in County Durham, Shibdon Pond and Cleadon, in south Tyneside and Washington. But they could appear anywhere in the next few days.

A flock of more than 50 was seen in Chester-le-Street on Sunday.

Now the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is hoping that the extent of the invasion will be tracked by people taking part in its Garden Birdwatch survey this weekend.

RSPB North of England information officer, David Hirst, said: "They have little fear of humans and will feed within a few feet of people.

"Waxwings get their name from the tips of their wing feathers, which look as though they have been dipped in bright red sealing wax."

* A birdwatch survey form is available online at www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch