A Field Guide to Monitoring Nests

A Field Guide to Monitoring Nests is intended as an aid to those involved in monitoring nests for research and conservation purposes. Written and illustrated by experts, this richly illustrated guide contains a wealth of information for 146 British and Irish species, together with introductory sections on nest-monitoring techniques, nest identification, legislation, the BTO Nest Record Scheme and nest-finding skills.

Its combination of concise notes and quick-reference facts and figures, together with expert advice and chapters on the basics, makes it an ideal field companion for both beginners and experienced nest recorders.

Each species account covers:

- Where the species breeds, with a UK distribution map and details on typical habitat and nest sites.
- Seasonality of breeding, with a timetable of when most birds are on eggs and chicks.
- Identification of eggs and young, with photographs.
- Species-specific nest finding methods and considerations.

Introduction 6
Acknowledgements 8
Why monitor birds? 9
Legislation and good practice 17
Fieldwork and monitoring 21
Nest recording for the BTO 35

Species accounts 53
- Wildfowl 56
- Gamebirds 76
- Seabirds 84
- Herons 93
- Grebes 96
- Raptors 100
- Rails and allies 108
- Waders 113
- Skuas, gulls and terns 129
- Auks 143
- Pigeons and doves 149
- Owls 159
- Woodpeckers 168
- Corvids 173
- Tits 185
- Swallows and martins 194
- Warblers 200
- Thrushes and chats 219
- Sparrows 237
- Wagtails and pipits 240
- Finches 250
- Buntings 261

Index 267
Further reading 272

"[...]the comprehensive information covered in this guide will be of interest even if you do not want to take part in nest recording. It may even help to change your mind!"
- Ian Woodward, Birdwatch Magazine - September 2011

Read the full review on the NHBS blog