The Hawk and Owl Trust, joined by other leading conservation charities, is spearheading a nationwide survey on the Long-Eared Owl.

It is in a bid to address the declining numbers of this species in the UK since the mid-1990s.

Chris Sperring MBE, conservation officer at the Hawk and Owl Trust and a Portishead local, said: "Everyone can contribute to this survey, regardless of where they live; we are trying to build a complete picture of the Long-Eared Owl population across the UK, meaning negative sightings are just as valuable as positive ones."

The lack of data on this declining species bodes a challenge in understanding the cause of their declining population.

Mr Sperring invites the public to provide information on local owl presence to enhance the understanding of their population picture and the impact of factors such as climate change.

He continued: "It’s really easy to participate in the survey, you certainly don’t have to be a wildlife expert to let us know what you find when you’re out and about this winter."

Survey data will aid the Trust's mission to rebuild breeding pairs and boost the overall population of Long-Eared Owls in the UK, particularly by supporting improvements and diversification of habitats with landowners' assistance.

Instructions on participating can be found at longearedowl.org.