Birdwatch Magazine March 2023 Back Issue

IN THIS ISSUE

Early spring is the best time to seek out some of Britain’s most elusive resident birds – and the March issue of Birdwatch profiles two highly desirable species.

The declining Lesser Spotted Woodpecker is becoming ever trickier to see, even in some of its previous strongholds. Species experts Ken and Linda Smith – who run the Woodpecker Network – examine the current status of this charming bird and give tips on how to find them this spring.

In contrast, the majestic Northern Goshawk has increased significantly in Britain in recent years – but what factors are most important to bear in mind when seeking out this secretive raptor? Ed Stubbs offers detailed advice on how to find them, as well as separate them from the more widespread Eurasian Sparrowhawk.


Just how do you go about illustrating birds effectively? Talented artist Miles Cluff discusses the processes and techniques involved, and offers some tips on how to get started yourself with this rewarding pastime.

In 2022, seabird expert Bob Flood ventured to the Pacific on a six-week birding pelagic, sailing from Hawaii to Fiji via Kiritimati and the Phoenix Islands in search of some of the world’s rarest and least-known tubenoses. He reports back on his findings and some of the special places visited.

Also in this month’s issue, Dr Steven Portugal takes a look at the science behind birds’ eggs and the BTO’s Teresa May outlines the importance of the WeBS Low Tide Counts scheme, while Kit Day puts top-of-the-range Olympus camera gear through its paces.

Amy Robjohns joins our Expert Advice team this month with the first of her monthly patchbirding columns, while the rest of the team offers guidance on wildlife-friendly planting in your garden this spring and how to effectively compose your bird images.

Plus: columnists Lucy McRobert and Alan Tilmouth offer topical comment and Josh Jones ponders the state of modern winter birding.