Last month, it was announced that a three year-long survey is underway to establish whether or not birdsong enhances the human spirit.

Well, I think that such a survey is hardly necessary because it is obvious that birdsong, especially in the spring acts as a tonic and is music to our ears.

Of course, unlike our Victorian forefathers who thought that the beauties of nature were solely for their benefit, we know that birdsong is in reality a proclomation of territory, defence, and an advertisement for prospective mates.

But our love of music allows us to appreciate the incredibly varied vocalisation of birds as a side benefit of its true meaning.

Who could not enjoy the fabulous melodies of a songthrush, blackbird, blackcap, skylark and a variety of warblers taking part in the dawn chorus?

They certainly gladden my heart and I look forward to the beginning of spring as they announce its arrival.

Even in winter, the robin chatters away almost continuously during day and night while the mistlethrush is also an early riser.

There are many birds that do not sing at all but utter short sharp calls or contact phrases. The screech of a jay and rattle of a magpie are not melodic while the frightful yelping of parakeets sounds even more out of place than a Christmas carol being sung in June!

However, I'm sure the outcome of the survey will reveal that birdsong certainly gives we humans a fabulous feelgood factor.