SPOTTED any wild birds near your local tube station? Well, next time you do get snapping. London Underground and RSPB are launching a competition to find the best photo of our feathered friends taken within a five minute walk of a tube station. Forty-two

SPOTTED any wild birds near your local tube station? Well, next time you do get snapping.

London Underground and RSPB are launching a competition to find the best photo of our feathered friends taken within a five minute walk of a tube station.

Forty-two bird species have been recorded on London Underground property in recent years, with an even greater number living in a variety of habitats just a short stroll away.

RSPB spokesman Tim Webb said: "We all rush around in our daily lives, rarely taking time to pause and admire what's going on in the wider world. Here's the ideal excuse to lift your eyes and discover the wildlife that lives alongside us."

There is one category for children and one for adults. Entrants should upload their photos at www.flickr.com/groups/LU-RSPB_MindtheBird and state where the picture was taken.

The competition runs until May 18.

Prizes include an annual pass to RSPB reserves and the London Transport Museum, plus a host of bird related goodies.