The internationally acclaimed London Wetland Centre is in my opinion the finest site around the capital to watch wildlife in variety.

From blackbirds to bitterns and gadwall to grebes the birdlife is rich at all seasons. Not only birds excel but dragonflies, butterflies, water voles, lizards and slow-worms thrive while wildflowers including fritillaries, golden marsh marigolds, ox-eye daisies orchids and many more grace the grasslands.

From 20th to 22nd April, a London Wild Bird Watch will be held at which well known experts including Simon King, Kate Humble, Stephen Moss and Chris Walker will be on hand.

This will be the first event of its kind to be held at the centre and it promises to be a stimulating weekend.

For further details log on to www.londonwildbirdwatch.co.uk.

At a media preview, Simon King gave us a fascinating talk on the activities of the peregrine falcon (pictured)that iconic bird which is increasingly making London one of its favoured nesting hotspots.

The Wetland Centre acts as a magnet for the falcons that fly in to prey on a variety of species from pigeons to parakeets.

Following Simon's talk I strolled outside on a sunny March afternoon and listened to lapwings, reed buntings and the explosive loud, liquid calls of cetti's warbler, a scarce species now very much at home at London Wetland Centre.

There is so much to see, listen to and do for both adults and children throughout the year.

I love it there.