Red kites, great spotted woodpeckers and pink-footed geese are only a few of the birds doing brilliantly in the British Isles right now. Mark Cocker celebrates their success stories and looks at what might be learnt from them

Send all your birding questions to birdwatching@bauermedia.co.uk and our experts will give you the answers

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

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

DECEMBER 2025

Britain’s seabird colonies are among the most spectacular in the world and you can experience them from the sea or land. Read on to find out where you can enjoy these incredible wildlife encounters