THE antics of amorous rare birds are among the attractions of two dusk walks through North-East woodlands.

The Forestry Commission has organised treks to find nightjars tomorrow through Slaley Forest, near Hexham, Northumberland, and at Hamsterley Forest, near Bishop Auckland, County Durham, on Saturday, July 1.

Both start at 9pm.

Nightjars became extinct in the region in the 1970s but made a comeback ten years ago when a pair in Hamsterley began a revival.

Ranger Simon Blenkinsop said: "The creature is remarkable for its aerobatic mating ritual and churring love call.

"But it is also proving to be a real-life phoenix by slowly recovering from a decline. It has shaken off the loss of its traditional heathland habitat by settling nicely into recently cleared sites in the region's forests, where it finds plenty of insects to eat."

Recent research backed by the Forestry Commission is casting new light on the nightjar's tell-tale song, which appears to be unique to each bird.

The Slaley walk will be led by Hexham expert Colin Jewitt and meets at Ladycross Quarry, near the Slaley Hall Hotel. The cost is £2 for adults and £1 concessions.

Hamsterley's trek starts from the Grove car park, two miles past the visitor centre, and is priced at £3 for adults and £2 concessions.

It will be guided by West Auckland naturalist Gordon Simpson. Booking is required on (01388) 488312.