BIRD watchers are venturing into the woods at the dead of night to see if the nightjar is continuing to make a comeback in the region.

The Forestry Commission is taking part in a national survey of nightjars, a migratory nocturnal bird known for its churring mating call and courtship ritual.

Two decades ago, there were fears that it faced a bleak future, especially in the North, but the most recent census 12 years ago estimated the UK population at 3,400 males, a 50 per cent increase on the low point of 1981.

The vast bulk of the North-East population is split between Hamsterley Forest, near Bishop Auckland, County Durham, and Slaley Forest, near Hexham, Northumberland, which has the highest density in northern Britain.

Colin Jewitt, who owns Ladycross Quarry and Nature Reserve, in Slaley, said: "Nightjars were at a very low ebb 20 years ago and it looked as if they were on their way out in Northern England.

"But things have improved since then and we now have a pretty stable, if small, population."

West Auckland naturalist Gordon Simpson is leading two treks in Hamsterley Forest at 8.30pm on June 25 and July 2. They cost £3.50 for adults and £2 for concessions, including drinks.

Telephone (01388) 488312 or contact www.forestry.gov.uk/ forestry/nightjar