Bird id book

[RoyW]

Originally Posted by Dogghound

Although this is a good book, it is perhaps geared more towards an experienced birder than someone getting back into it. I personally think it works very well alongside the collins book, which can be a little basic at times.

Which is why it's titled the Advanced ID guide!
Dogghound is right to point out that it may be more than Meles requires. The Collins guide will be enough for many people - and even that may contain more detail than needed by complete beginners! You will know when it is time to move on to books that contain more detail, and/or cover more species (books covering only regular UK species are often best for beginners).

[Mele]

Yo all and thank you very much for advice

For me, the Collins has too many species, too crowded on the page and I don't want European birds.....I'm finding it a bit dense and already going back to using my old Shell guide! I'm not a novice just a reawakened birder.....

Thanks Shrike and RoyW - I have ordered a copy of Hume on Amazon. Couzens is a bit pricey 2nd hand...sadly
I think I'll pass on the Advanced bird guide....

On the binoculars front, I'm popping to Willows Farm, London Colney today, on my way to London, to see what's on offer.

Mel

That's Mele as in Mel, not Meles as in badger

[htcdude]

Originally Posted by Mele

On the binoculars front, I'm popping to Willows Farm, London Colney today, on my way to London, to see what's on offer.

If you bird round that way keep an eye out on here: Herts Bird Club and here: LatestNews - London Bird Club Wiki for recent sightings.

Happy birding!

Nige

[Mele]

Thanks Nige
Yes, the man at In Focus said that too but I tend not to head towards London unless I can help it.
Mel

[Mele]

Hi

Just a quick update on my bird book request.

I've bought the RSPB Handbook of British Birds, which is perfect for me at the moment - just British birds and it has good-sized maps. It also tells me something of the ecology of each species - which is why I like to watch birds.

I am also enjoying Rob Hume's book which I got dirt cheap on Amazon (I had a copy years ago so super to have it on the book shelves once again).

But, I am now utterly depressed that I don't live on the coast...am planning a holiday on North Norfolk coast for October, so can go sit in hides at Titchwell and re-learn my waders.....which for some reason, and probably because I live right inland, I really want to watch. Typical. Am now looking for a dummies key to iding waders. Perhaps I'll write my own.

Thanks for all the helpful suggestions

Mel