Regardless of where your travels might take you in this world (and if Sir Richard Branson is successful in his venture, any other) it’s always a good idea to read-up on your destination before you go. For travelling naturalists and wildlife photographers, such preliminary study is not just a good idea, it’s of paramount importance. That’s why, from the moment I confirmed that my trip to Panama was a “go,” I walked directly to my bookshelves and began taking down the volumes that I would need either to read in advance or to take with me on the journey. Read the rest of this entry »

Bird watching is one of those pastimes that can be learnt in five minutes but takes a lifetime to master (if even then). While it essentially requires only one book to practice – a field guide to the birds of the area in which one intends to watch birds – seemingly countless volumes have been written to help those seeking to improve and refine their skills. The sheer number of these books alone is sufficient to either bewilder or bankrupt the aspiring bird watcher; however not all provide any significantly different or more effective advice than many of the others. Fortunately, a recently published title, Laura Erickson’s The Bird Watching Answer Book: Everything You Need to Know to Enjoy Birds in Your Backyard and Beyond, provides a wealth of information that is both valuable and effectively presented so as to yield the reader great opportunity to apply it and reap the benefits of increased understanding, proficiency, and enjoyment of their hobby. Read the rest of this entry »