The RSPCA is calling for more volunteers, having seen more than 1,000 enthusiasts sign up for its Wildlife Friends initiative since its relaunch in March.

First introduced as part of the nationwide Big Help Out campaign last year, it sees volunteers commit to various tasks to preserve and protect wildlife in their gardens or green spaces.

Becoming a volunteer means partaking in this year's Big Help Out campaign, taking place from June 7 to 9, and supporting the charity in celebrating its 200th birthday on June 16.

By signing on, participants join the one-million-strong RSPCA movement to improve animal lives.

Opportunities are plenty; tasks are available throughout the year, whether contributing five minutes or five hours a week, living in a flat, narrowboat or house with a garden.

 In 2023, the charity received an alarming 83,000 reports of wildlife in need. 

The 'State of Nature' report also indicated no let-up in the decline in wildlife, with one in six species at risk of extinction.

RSPCA's volunteers have recently taken part in 'No Mow May', letting wildflowers flourish to aid bees, butterflies, and other insects.

RSPCA chief executive, Chris Sherwood said: "I am really proud of the RSPCA’s Wildlife Friends programme because it is a real opportunity to engage the public to make a bigger difference for wildlife here in the UK.

"We launched the scheme as part of the King’s Coronation last year when we had 2,000 people sign up to be Wildlife Friends.

“Wildlife Friends encourages people to engage in a range of different tasks to help wildlife.

"You can do things like leaving out bird feeders for birds, creating bug hotels or you can ensure drains aren’t blocked so animals are able to navigate around your gardens.

"There’s lots of different ways you can get involved."

To become a Wildlife Friend, visit the RSPCA website.