Rangers and volunteers are keen to attract tree sparrows

Rangers have installed the feeders at the Staunton Harold and Foremark reservoirs, both in Derbyshire, and Thornton reservoir, in Leicestershire.

Over the last 20 years, the national tree sparrow population has declined by almost 90%.

Water company Severn Trent is behind the project to build the feeders.

The programme started in November 2003 with volunteers constructing the feeders, which were then put in place in April 2004.

The bird feeders are built by volunteers

Wayne Ball, a ranger for Severn Trent, said: "All three feeders have proven successful in attracting birds to each area.

"Tree sparrows regularly use the new feeder at Staunton Harold and have recently moved into a new nest site next to the car park at the site.

"Their nesting has also proven successful as numerous fledglings have been recorded being fed by adults from the feeder.

"In the past they would usually move away to their colony sites when spring arrives, but the reliable sources of food provided by the feeder tempted them to nest on site.

"The success of this work provides an immense sense of achievement knowing that we are doing our bit in protecting local wildlife and preserving species for future generations to enjoy."