Birdwatch - January 2024

When was the last time that you saw a Little Owl in Britain? The chances are that this delightful species has become harder to connect with in your local area, for it has suffered a steady decline nationwide in recent years, marking the latest twist in its fascinating history on these shores. In the latest issue of Birdwatch, species expert Emily Joáchim reveals all about this perennially popular bird.

Gardens across Britain and Ireland have produced some of the biggest ornithological surprises over the years, with countless mega rarities unearthed in the backyards of birders and non-birders alike. David Campbell looks at some of the highlights of the past couple of decades.

Situated at the northern tip of The Wash, Gibraltar Point NNR in Lincolnshire is brilliantly placed to observe migration in action. Kev Wilson profiles the history of the nature reserve and bird observatory, and takes a look at a typical birding year at this east-coast hot-spot.

This month’s ID guide focuses on bean geese, two similar species that can provide a serious identification challenge. But never fear, for Dan Owen’s top tips will help you recognise even the subtlest of individuals, as well as tell them from several other grey goose species.

Also in this issue, the BTO’s Ian Woodward profiles the Heronries Census, the world’s longest-running annual breeding bird survey, which is fast approaching its centenary. Meanwhile, Dan Brown reflects on the ups and downs of rarity finding in the mega-filled autumn of 2023.

There are also exclusive finder’s accounts of the well-twitched Canvasback in Essex and an American Kestrel onboard a ship off the Irish coast, while we provide comprehensive summaries of Britain, Ireland and the Western Palearctic’s top birds during November.

Expert advice on how changing angles can improve your bird photos, planting hedgerows for wildlife and enhancing your local birding during January also feature, as does a comprehensive review of four new ZEISS thermal-imaging monoculars. Meanwhile, our columnists celebrate geese and gulls, while also pondering the frustrations of bogey birds.