Springwatch: Birdtopia

by Jack Baddams

Did you know that the word 'swansong' comes from an ancient belief that while swans were silent throughout their lives, they sang a beautiful song on their deathbed? Or that a group of skylarks is called an exultation?


Over the years, Springwatch has brought us unforgettable moments featuring our feathered friends, from nest cams capturing hatchlings as they emerge from their eggs to red kites soaring majestically in search of prey. Now, delve into the ultimate bird lover's companion, with expert tips on where to find British bird species and how to identify them, alongside avian folklore and favourite stories from the series.

Arranged by bird family, Birdtopia includes explanations behind unusual collective nouns for birds - an unkindness of ravens may stem from the nineteenth-century belief that these birds turned their young out of the nest to fend for themselves - descriptions of bird calls, the reasons why birds create beautiful murmuration displays and the top places to spot them.

Written by Springwatch naturalist and TikTok and Instagram’s ‘bird guy’ Jack Baddams and beautifully illustrated with line drawings, Birdtopia is the perfect gift for any bird lover.

And the best thing about it all? We’re not talking about birds in some far off land, on the other side of the world. These are the ones we can see whenever we step outside our doors. They’re right there, for everyone. Get out and enjoy them!

Genres: Nonfiction, Nature

231 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 9, 2024

Reviews

[Joana · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting if brief guide of british birds, aimed at the general public and bird lovers. Even for someone with slightly deeper knowledge, I still read some interesting curiosities. But knowing how many of these birds I know the author catches in his nets for bird-ringing, I have to ask: where are the dunnocks?

[Philip Horspool · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice little read for anyone whowants an introduction to some typical British birds or to find out a little more about their habitats, behaviours and history within Britain. Some striking absences - Avocet, Coal Tit, Mallards and Marsh Harrier amongst them. Arguably all 4 more worthy of an entry than Mandarin Ducks, Wrynecks or Stock Doves for example.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A love letter to British birds. This author's fondness for birds comes across in every entry. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Mary Nower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful, would wholeheartedly recommend. A thoughtful, passionate romp through common British birds, full to the brim with interesting facts, as well as where and when to see them.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a lovely little book, cute illustrations, would be great for children, too. But I also learned a lot actually and it also made me watch Springwatch!

[Ryan Barry · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brilliant book for any budding birder, ornithologist, or fan of BBC Two's "Springwatch" I learnt a lot from reading this and will use it as a reference book.