Later this spring, we’ll be running a feature about the birds that migrate to Britain in summer and how they add to our experience of the countryside.
 
These species include obvious characters such as swallows, swifts, cuckoos and the martins but also the less obvious characters such as willow warblers, blackcaps and nightingales.
 
Less obvious in colour and behaviour but not in song. While you may not be able to recognise which species is singing which melody (though it’s not too difficult to learn – if I can do it, anyone can), you’ll certainly appreciate the lovely backing track birdsong provides to any visit to the countryside in spring and summer.
 
One of the debates we’ve had in the office and with our colleagues on Countryfile and at the BBC Natural History Unit is which British songster is the nation’s favourite singer. And this is where you can help. I’ve selected the 15 best singers. If you’re familiar with the birds’ songs, vote for your favourite below. If not, why not listen to these clips and then vote for your favourite here.

Turtle dove
Blackbird
Chaffinch
Wood warbler
Willow warbler
Robin
Blackcap
Song thrush
Cuckoo
Swift
Wren
Dunnock
Yellowhammer
Nightingale
Woodlark