AA/BTO Birds of Britain and Europe
Paul SterryRRP £12.99 (Paperback)
Hot on the heels of the 2nd edition of Collins Bird Guide - 2nd edition, the BTO/AA Birds of Britain & Europe covers very similar ground.
Covering more than 500 species, and using a mix of photos and illustrations, there is plenty here for all bird enthusiasts. The images and photos are larger and more numerous than in most similar guides, which reduces the space for some other aspects. EG The Collins guide covers a slightly wider area, including North Africa; consequently it covers 5 species of sand grouse compared with just 2 for the BTO/AA guide.
I am still a fan of the RSPB British Birds guide, especially the details for each species on ‘Population' & ‘conservation', but it only covers British birds. If you want the wider coverage of all of Europe, you pays your money and you takes your choice. The Collins book has a little more details, and is definitely a better choice for the more experienced birdwatcher, but most people will be more than happy with the AA/BTO book, which is usually cheaper.
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