A SPATE of sightings of Siberian birds in the North-East could be the start of a massive invasion by colourful waxwings to the region this winter, say bird lovers.

The RSPB has had a number of calls from people baffled by the appearance of the "berry burglars" in their gardens.

With their handsome, brightly coloured plumage and acrobatic feeding antics among the branches of berry-bearing trees, waxwings are said to be a delight to watch.

Large numbers of waxwings have already been seen in Northumberland, Tyneside, Wearside, County Durham, Cleveland and North Yorkshire. They have been spotted at Metro stations, petrol stations, football pitches, surgeries and schools.

Waxwings are infrequent visitors to the UK, flying in from Siberia on food raiding missions during the winter months, and providing a seasonal bonus to anyone who enjoys watching birds.

They normally appear in small numbers, but this year huge numbers have been spotted acrossing the region.

RSPB North-East information officer David Hirst said: "These great birds are usually easy to see, as they have little fear of humans and will feed within a few feet of people.

"There has been a massive arrival this autumn, with flocks of up to 800 waxwings already reported from Scotland. These birds will probably head over the border and are likely to turn up more frequently in local gardens in the coming weeks."

Waxwings nest in remote parts of northern Europe, including Siberia, where they rarely see humans. Food shortages in their usual Scandinavian wintering grounds occasionally drive them across to Britain.