Symphony not to be missed

SUPREME Song of the Blackcap warbler

- with STUART WINTER

Don't despair if International Dawn Chorus Day slipped by this morning without having a chance to immerse yourself in nature's great symphony.

This annual celebration held on the first Sunday in May should be regarded as merely the introduction to a joyous season when birdwatchers rest their binoculars to become enthralled listeners.

Over the coming weeks, the countryside will be throbbing to the songs of thrushes, chats and finches declaring their territories under the rising sun. Baritone blackbirds and top tenor nightingales will stand out as virtuoso performers.