Residents in the city like to look at birds

Developer Barratt Homes did the research as part of its partnership with the RSPB to create wildlife-friendly housing developments.

Butterflies were almost as popular with 71 per cent of those questioned ticking this box and bees third, with 60 per cent saying they are welcome in their gardens.

And those in the region don’t just expect wildlife to visit – they actively encourage visitors with more than 59 per cent saying they put food out for birds and more than 55 per cent planting bee-friendly flowers in their gardens.

‘It’s great to see how many people actively encourage wildlife which is something we support,’ said sales director Michelle Storer.

‘We’re working with the RSPB to raise employee awareness of wildlife-friendly best practice across our developments in the south and throughout our supply chain nationally.’