The year was rounded off nicely with one or two exceptional rarities, rudely inconveniencing many birders enjoying the festive season…

One of the rich joys of birding is that there are birds everywhere, including gardens and parks. Just get out and walk around, there’s no need to be quiet or furtive. Become familiar with your feather

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Check your answers against our explanations. Remember, there are no ‘trick’ birds or extreme rarities among these...

Night flight: Eric Hosking’s pioneering flash photography captures ...

Mike’s local area has become a difficult place to watch gulls, but it makes up for their lack in other ways