Sir David Attenborough to bring bird song to Radio 4 with Tweet Of The Day

Sir David Attenborough is to present Tweet Of The Day on Radio 4 (Getty Images)

Fans of Sir David Attenborough are in for a tweet after the veteran broadcaster signed up to present a new series devoted to birdsong.

The naturalist will launch Radio 4's Tweet Of The Day next month. Each episode will last a minute and a half and feature the song of a particular bird with insights into their behaviour and history.

Sir David said: "I'm delighted to be involved in this series. I've seen some of the most incredible animals on my travels around the world, but Tweet Of The Day is a nice reminder of the teeming world of birds on my doorstep. As a non-ornithologist, I might even learn a little too."

The series, which is being made by the BBC's Natural History Unit, will see 265 different recordings of birds' songs and calls played in a slot before the Today Programme, beginning with the cuckoo.

Sir David will present the episodes in May before handing over to other presenters including Chris Packham.

Radio 4 controller Gwyneth Williams said: "I'm thrilled to have birds flying into the early morning schedule on Radio 4. David Attenborough, of course, will rule the roost as we introduce hundreds of British birds to our early listening and online audiences. And Radio 4's digital archive will be their permanent nesting site."

PA