‘Donald Watson, Bird artist and Writer’ written by Roger Crofts - Whittles Publishing

Whittles Publishing, based in the far north of Scotland, is well-known for high-quality and attractive books across a wide range of non-fiction topics. There is an excellent selection of books related to birds and there will certainly be something to appeal to every reader and here is a little more to whet the appetite! You will surely be interested in the recently released ‘Donald Watson, Bird artist and Writer’ written by Roger Crofts and a team of well-known co-authors. The book brings together work by one of Britain's finest-ever bird artists and field ornithologists. Donald Watson was a seminal figure in the wildlife art and ornithological world from the late 1950s onwards. Since his death in 2005, his work has lived on through active public demand for his outstanding paintings of birds and the continued reading of his books. This is the first book to assess his status and standing in the world of bird art and ornithology. This definitive book is a collection of biographical essays written by those who knew him and his outstanding contributions. There are many perceptive insights about him and his work, and many previously untold stories that enliven the text. Reading the stories will bring back memories for all who knew him and hopefully inspire those who didn’t, but who follow in his footsteps.

Already praised by those who have seen it and beautifully illustrated with Watson’s outstanding paintings, examples of his exquisite scraper board sketches and family photographs, readers will want this book for its images alone.

Praise for Donald Watson - ‘…This is an outstanding book that fully does justice to the life and art of its subject and should be considered essential reading – and viewing – by anyone with an interest in birds, bird art or bird protection’. Undiscovered Scotland

As summer begins, and more time is spent in the countryside, there is little that is more uplifting than the sound of birdsong in the trees. In Ian Parson’s recent release ‘Of the Trees and the Birds’ he provides an accessible but in-depth study of the relationships that exist between two of his favourite things, trees and birds. He looks at the intricate symbiotic connections between birds and trees, opening the door for the reader to enter in to the fascinating intertwined world of the two. The links between trees and birds are extremely intricate, they can be invisible to us, they may be incomprehensible to us, but they are always amazing. A rare bird is always of interest and ‘The Corncrake’ by Frank Rennie is sure to satisfy. It is the first comprehensive and accessible account of the lifecycle and ecology of this fascinating bird. It provides up-to-date information on the geographical status and habitat requirements for the continued survival of this iconic bird species. There are some successes in the Corncrake’s struggle against extinction and this book amply illustrates why this bird should be saved.

'...a well-balanced, beautifully researched book that is also very readable. ... is a joy to read...' Hon. Chairman, British Naturalists’ Association ‘The Ring Ouzel’ by Vic Fairbrother and Ken Hutchinson explains the impact of people on the behaviour of Ring Ouzels. Of particular interest is the bird’s ability to adapt to the rich industrial heritage of the North York Moors. It is the first comprehensive account of this evocative and elusive upland bird. An inspiring account of the joys and rewards of observing the daily behaviour of the Ring Ouzel and its place in a habitat shared with other wildlife.

‘…this is a beautifully presented book, a treasure trove of knowledge and a great examination of Ring Ouzel ecology…’ BTO News

With warmer weather, more of us head towards the sea and if you have an interest in birds to be seen along the shoreline, perhaps ‘Shorebirds in Action’ by Richard Chandler may pique your interest. It is a copiously illustrated account, by an acknowledged expert, of all the major aspects of the fascinating lives of shorebirds. It provides a unique collection of photographs covering 80% of the world’s species and illustrating the many and varied aspects of shorebirds’ behaviour. Feeding, roosting, breeding, their spectacular migrations, their plumages and moult strategies are all covered.

‘...excellent photos, many in double-page spreads, are a stand-out feature of the book. ...It is highly recommended for anyone who wants to know more about this fascinating group of birds…’ British Birds Finally if it’s raptors you’re interested in, ‘Kestrels for Company’ by Gordon Riddle provides a captivating insight into the world of the kestrel through the eyes of an enthusiastic raptor fieldworker. A comprehensive picture of this delightful falcon is portrayed, based upon almost 40 years’ observation in Britain. It is made up in an easy-to-read style, combining a mixture of facts with entertaining anecdotes and experiences – complemented with a wide range of colour illustrations.

‘An appealing book that rightfully raises the profile of the kestrel. It provides an extensive picture of this delightful falcon. ...through this personal and well-informed account the reader gains access to the world of the kestrel’. NHBS There are many more available in the Birds section of Whittles Publishing website and we hope you enjoy delving in.