WILDLIFE lovers can learn all about the nature thriving in the county’s gardens at a free two-day event.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, which is holding the event at Oxford’s Port Meadow, said it aimed to highlight the diversity of animals and birds found in the area.

More than 100 other RSPB groups across the country are holding Feed the Birds Day festivals on Saturday and Sunday.

Staff and volunteers will be setting up telescopes to give visitors a close up view of the meadow’s wildlife — including lapwings, golden plovers, wild ducks and herons.

Youngsters will have the chance to make pine cone bird feeders, nesting boxes, dragonflies and animal face masks.

Event organiser Sharon Boardman said: “Port Meadow is a wonderful green space right in the heart of the city.

“Our event will have lots of wild activities and you will see some amazing wildlife.”

According to the RSPB, more than one in five gardens in the county is home to hedgehogs and foxes, while five per cent attract badgers.

Frogs and toads are also thriving, with more than 39 per cent of people polled by the society saying they saw frogs regularly and 19 per cent making regular sightings of toads.

RSPB spokesman Andy Waters said: “The weekend will be a great deal of fun and a brilliant way for young people to start taking an interest in wildlife at home and making a difference in their own backyard.

“Plus, it will help make sure Oxfordshire’s birds are well looked after this winter.”

The event is open from 10.30am to 3pm each day. Parking is available in Walton Well Road, with signposts leading to the meadow.