Birds Brittanica

[Alan Campbell]

I enjoy my bird and wildlife photography and I noted in a previous thread that Colin C recommended the book
Eric Hosking's Birds.
Not only do I enjoy the photography but I also enjoy reading wildlife books.
Has anyone got the BIRDS BRITTANICA book and do they recommend it.

I have the Collins guide, and Birds and People by Mark Cocker and David Tipling which I strongly recommend
I was wondering if The Birds Britannica would be a worthwhile addition to my collection.
Please list any other books that you recommend.

Many thanks.

Alan

[AlexR!]

Re: Birds Brittanica

I've got a copy, and if you haven't seen it, it is a stonking great tome. Obviously don't get it if you want a field guide (it'd cripple you lugging it about!) but as a mix of background study on all our birds plus some social history on our interactions with them through history it is a great reference and an enjoyable read too.

[colin C]

Re: Birds Brittanica

On this very subject, I use the RSPB Birdwatchers Pocket Guide by Mitchell Beazley when I am out and about. It has done me well for many a year, but is there anything else I should be looking at? Mine is over 20 years old and first published in 1979. I am sure there must be something more up to date, equally pocket sized, but taking advantage of digital illustrations for more definitive bird identification.

Any suggestions?

[Alan Campbell]

Re: Birds Brittanica

Thanks Alex the book seems just what I am looking for when its chucking it down.
Something to mull over on a winters night.

Alan

[Alan Campbell]

Re: Birds Brittanica

On this very subject, I use the RSPB Birdwatchers Pocket Guide by Mitchell Beazley when I am out and about. It has done me well for many a year, but is there anything else I should be looking at? Mine is over 20 years old and first published in 1979. I am sure there must be something more up to date, equally pocket sized, but taking advantage of digital illustrations for more definitive bird identification.

Any suggestions?

Colin if you have an iPod touch or iPhone I can recommend an app called ibird uk , it contains over 280 birds with information and photos.

Another useful feature I have found is that it has sounds for all birds so you are able to recognise them from their sound.
I have played some sounds in the field and it actually attracts the birds in closer for you to photograph.
(maybe cheating) but it works.

Alan

[colin C]

Re: Birds Brittanica

Great idea Alan, but I don't have smart phone etc. Just an ordinary phone and I don't even use that much.

[DeeGee]

Re: Birds Brittanica

Collins Nature Guide Birds of Britain and Europe contains over 310 species of bird and as colour photos. Worth a look at especially if you can get one cheap, which I did.