WILDLIFE experts are calling on families across Dorset to take up the 'Wild Challenge' this summer.

A latest RSPB survey shows a decline in sightings of some of the UK's favourite garden wildlife.

So RSPB Dorset wants residents to take on the Wild Challenge to uncover the mysterious creatures living in their garden.

RSPB Dorset spokesman Morwenna Alldis said: "The results of this survey in Dorset highlight how vital it is that we all take steps towards giving nature a home in our own gardens and green spaces. With an increasing loss of natural habitats, food and water, and changes to our climate, many of our local wildlife species are increasingly relying on our urban gardens and we need to do more to welcome them. No matter the size of your outdoor space – a window box, a paved courtyard or a lush lawn – with a few simple steps you can help your local wildlife to survive and thrive.”

Results from the survey of more than 100,000 wildlife enthusiasts showed that hedgehogs had been seen in 60 per cent of UK gardens or outdoor spaces last year.

Worryingly, the spiny mammals were absent from a quarter of gardens. This pattern was apparent across all four countries, with the figure rising to close to 30 per cent in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Visit rspb.org.uk/wildchallenge to learn more about the RSPB Wild Challenge.