RSPB Pocket Guide to British Birds: Second Edition by Simon Harrap - Non Fiction - Paperback

Condition: BRAND NEW
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781408174562
Publisher: A&C Black

Overview
The RSPB Pocket Guide to British Birds, Second Edition by Simon Harrap is the ultimate compact companion for anyone who loves watching birds in the UK. Covering 215 of the most frequently seen species, this beautifully illustrated paperback packs a huge amount of identification detail into a genuinely pocket-sized format. Whether you're a keen birder heading out into the field or a curious beginner wanting to know what's visiting the garden, this guide gives you fast, reliable answers wherever you are.

About the Book
Compiled by respected naturalist Simon Harrap in association with the RSPB, this second edition brings together 950 full-colour illustrations and 215 up-to-date distribution maps covering every species included. Each bird is shown in the various plumage forms you're likely to encounter in the wild — from breeding adults to juveniles and winter variants — making tricky identifications far easier for birdwatchers of every level. The concise species accounts cover the essentials: how to identify each bird, its calls and song, preferred habitat, UK distribution and typical behaviour. A standout feature is the "confusion species" notes accompanying many entries, which highlight the similar-looking birds you might mistake one for, and clearly explain the key differences to look out for. Combined with the clear distribution maps, this makes the guide genuinely useful for building confidence in the field rather than just flicking through at home. At 224 pages and sized to slip into a coat pocket, it's built for practical outdoor use — light enough for every walk, yet detailed enough to answer most identification questions. It's an ideal reference for gardens, nature reserves and countryside rambles, and a trusted pick for RSPB members and casual bird lovers alike.

• 215 common British bird species covered in detail
• 950 colour illustrations showing multiple plumage variations
• 215 clear, up-to-date distribution maps
• Handy "confusion species" notes to avoid misidentification
• Compact, pocket-sized format ideal for field use
• Published in association with the RSPB

About the Author
Simon Harrap is a professional naturalist and experienced birder who has led birdwatching holidays for almost twenty years and regularly contributes to birding magazines and journals. He is the author of Tits, Nuthatches and Treecreepers and co-author of Where to Watch Birds in Britain and Orchids of Britain and Ireland. Harrap has also written Harrap's Wild Flowers, drawing on decades of fieldwork across the UK and beyond. He runs nature-focused breaks in his home county of Norfolk, bringing hands-on field expertise to every guide he writes.

Why You'll Love This Guide
Compact, thorough and genuinely practical, this pocket guide turns any walk into a chance to learn something new. The clear illustrations, maps and confusion-species tips make it a brilliant everyday companion for birdwatchers of all abilities — and a thoughtful gift for any nature lover.

Please Note: Due to the nature of publishing, the exact cover design may vary slightly from the image shown, but the ISBN and UK edition content remain as described.