Behind More Binoculars : Interviews with Acclaimed Birdwatchers

The sequel to Behind the Binoculars is here and yes, it's another series of engaging interviews with a diverse range of birdwatching personalities, but this enjoyable follow-up offers far more.

Keith Betton and Mark Avery, surely worthy of a chapter each, interview notable birders ranging from Frank Gardener -  the BBC's security correspondent - to Royal Society Fellow, author, zoologist and tireless Guillemot researcher, Tim Birkhead, and the BTO's very own head of surveys and atlas co-ordinator Dawn Balmer.

The interviews follow the lives of these celebrated birdwatchers from their formative years, discussing the passions, motivations and experiences that have shaped their careers and achievements. It quickly becomes apparent that most developed their interest in birds and wildlife quite early on in life, through being able to access nature in ways not often afforded to the young of recent generations.

Whilst the questions posed frequently elicit thought-provoking responses, and it is interesting to note childhood observations of species once common that would now sadly be considered rarities, this is balanced with light hearted anecdotes and amusing tales of more carefree times.

Prepare to be entertained, educated but above all inspired.

Book reviewed by Justin Walker