TWITCHERS in Dartford and Gravesend are being urged to save the turtle dove from extinction by reporting sightings of the elusive bird to the RSPB.

Figures show the population of turtle doves has fallen by 84 per cent in the south east since 1995 and 93 per cent nationally since 1970.

The RSPB estimates there could be less than 1,000 pairs left by 2020 and says a complete UK extinction as a breeding species was also “a real possibility.”

Operation turtle dove has been re-launched for a second year by the charity, which is asking for members of the public to report sightings of the endangered bird.

Last summer 425 calls were received, which helped to map where the birds are breeding and where to focus conservation efforts.

RSPB south east farmland bird advisor Bruce Fowkes said: “It’s great that so many people are looking out for these birds and supported Operation turtle dove last year.

“Turtle doves are truly struggling, and we are facing the very real possibility of losing this beautiful bird from the UK within the next 10 years.

“So we’re hoping for more reports this year and are appealing to anyone who spots a turtle dove to call and give us as much information as possible.”

Although the reasons behind the turtle doves population crash are not fully understood, research shows the birds diet has changed from small seeds of wild plants to crop seeds since the 1960s.

These seeds are in short supply in the breeding season and this lack of food could be one reason why numbers in the UK have fallen.

Anyone who sees a turtle dove is asked to call 01603 697527 or email turtledove@rspb.org.uk.