Springwatch: Birdtopia (Hardback) - 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!

About the Author

Jack Baddams is BBC Springwatch's wildlife researcher and resident bird fanatic. A lifelong ornithologist, he's been fascinated by birds since before he can remember and spent his life absorbed in their world.

Despite having travelled the world to study birds in some of the world's most unique and remote places, it's Britain's birds that hold the most special place in his heart. Through working with some of the leading ornithological organisations in the country, such as the RSPB & BTO, he's been involved in surveying and ringing birds since his teenage years.

He's also avid about sharing his passion with others, and regularly gives talks, leads walks and runs successful social media channels that teach and inspire others to enjoy the wonder of birds.