The RSPB guide is a similar size to the Collins, yet covers only British species, meaning that there is more space for information on each species. As well as identification tips, you’ll also find facts on population, nesting season, brood size, and lifespan; all useful for building up a picture of a bird’s lifestyle.

The judges were particularly impressed by the way Vagrancy in Birds presents theories and observations in an easily accessible way. They also felt that the title communicates the importance of vagrancy to a range of ornithological phenomena, from the formation of new migration routes to speciation. An impressive amount of research is included in the family-by-family section, covering extralimital species records, and theories and observations about vagrancy in the given family.

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Alongside artworks depicting all common plumages, the detailed text describes each bird's behaviour, habitat, voice, breeding biology, longevity and seasonal movements, as well as other useful information. The guide also includes UK population trends and up-to-date distribution maps. The information on each species isn’t quite as thorough as that in the RSPB Handbook, but the identification tips are extremely good. That, combined with the high quality of the photos, means Britain’s Birds will prove highly useful both in the field and at home as you study in readiness for your next birding adventure. For even more birdwatching gear, take a look at our garden bird guide or invest in some of the best kit for wildlife watchers. Alternatively, treat friends and family to some gifts for bird lovers. The best British bird identification books to buy in 2023 Many of the best bird identification guides come with large colourful images to make it as easy as possible to recognise birds, along with additional information of how many of the species there are in Britain and what geographical regions they are typically spotted in. By Peter Adriaens, Mars Muusse, Philippe J. Dubois and Frédéric Jiguet; Princeton University Press, 2021; reviewed in BBby Brian Small ( Brit. Birds115: 177–178) and for BTO by Fionnuala McCully.

For ornithology enthusiasts, or if you just want to identify the visitors coming into your garden, this bird guide will tell you everything you need to know about our local birds. It has been authenticated by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds to provide you with the most thorough and accurate information.This year, Hazel McCambridge, Maria Farooqi and Jenna Woodford represented BTO on the judging panel, while Paul French, Sarah Harris and Stephen Menzie represented British Birds. Key facts relating to each bird, which has been expertly verified by the RSPB and top bird author Rob Hume. A round-up of the best British bird books for 2023. Find out which guide will be accompanying us on our birding trips this year… By Alexander Lees and James Gilroy; Helm, 2022; reviewed in BBby Martin Collinson ( Brit. Birds115: 231–232) and for BTO by Paul Stancliffe.

This definitive and bestselling field guide is the perfect companion for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Those minor criticisms aside, if you want a truly comprehensive bird book that covers British and European species, then the Collins should be top of your shopping list! The RSPB Handbook only covers bird species seen in Britain, which is definitely a plus for someone just getting into birding; the Collins can seem a bit overwhelming! List of Common British Birds With Pictures & Facts: 25 Species That You Need To Know! For Children & Adults.

The best British bird identification books to buy in 2023

An initial vote from each of the judges determined the shortlist, with 11 of the 45 eligible titles going forward to the second round. The final vote took place in mid December, with the usual lively discussion and debate between the judges before they cast their votes to determine the winning title. It was tight at the top, with just a few points separating the winner from second and third place. P: 'Ethel the Aa--' YES!!!YES!!! WE'VE GOT IT!! (throwing books wildly about) I-I've seen it somewhere!!! I know it!!! Hee hee hee hee hee!!! Ha ha hoo ho---WAIT!! WAIT!! Is it?? Is it??? (triumphant) YES!!!!!! Here we are, 'Ethel the Aardvark goes Quantity Surveying'!!!!! There's your book!! (throwing it down) Now, BUY IT!!!