The centre is due to open on May 26 and the campaign is alerting city slickers to the "urban oasis" that the centre will offer.

A series of posters seen by thousands of Tube commuters contrasts the grittiness of city life with perceptions of wildlife with the strapline 'London Life Just Got Wilder'.

One poster features the remains of a fried chicken takeout with the headline 'Shouldn't London's birdlife add up to more than this?'

Wetland Centre spokesman Mary Dowling said: "We want Londoners to look at wildlife, in particular wild birds, with fresh eyes.

The Wetland Centre will give people a chance to enjoy a wonderful new landscape in the city.

The new Wetland Centre will only be open to members, season ticket holders and guests on Sundays but visitors can join on the day.

The money will help the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust continue vital research and conservation of wetlands.

Call the centre on 020 8409 4400.