My local garden centre is a treasure trove of plants, trees, and gardening tools. However, I was surprised to see a Christmas display already set up in September, three months before the holiday season. Alongside the festive decorations were rows of calendars, diaries, and Christmas cards for sale. Publishers have also jumped on the holiday bandwagon, releasing books aimed at the Christmas market.
Two birdwatching books caught my attention, both offering a month-by-month exploration of the birdwatching year. The RSPB Birding Year, written by Dominic Couzens and Sian Duncan, takes readers on a journey through gardens, parks, and the countryside to observe birds in their natural habitats. Each month highlights a different bird species to look out for, with October featuring the colorful jay and other interesting birds like the nuthatch, treecreeper, and owls. The book provides valuable tips on where to spot these birds and even sets a challenge to find the short-eared owl. It also guides readers on where to find berries left by woodpigeons, attracting redwings and fieldfares migrating from the continent to enjoy the milder winters.
In contrast, Dawn Casey’s RSPB Bird Tales delves into the folklore and traditional stories surrounding 25 of the most familiar bird species. Each bird is accompanied by old English names and folk tales from around the world, such as the Welsh story of how the wren became known as the king of birds. The book also offers practical advice on building bird nest boxes, preparing bird food, using binoculars, drawing birds, and identifying feathers. It’s a unique and entertaining addition to bird literature that will appeal to nature lovers of all ages.
Both books promise a fascinating journey into the world of birds and are likely to be popular choices for Christmas gifts. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting out, these books offer valuable insights and stories that will captivate readers and deepen their appreciation for the avian world. So, keep an eye out for these titles to potentially find their way into your Christmas stocking this year.