Birds of Cleveland

I can think of no-one more dedicated or committed to the birds of a single county than Martin Blick of Cleveland. During my time birding around Teesmouth, finding anything not already seen by Martin was a severe challenge! Despite the author’s natural modesty, this book is a sound celebration of that knowledge. In a work of this nature it is always difficult to decide on what to include and what to leave out, and the inclusion here of useful monthly summaries, and tasters of places to go birding, draw the reader in to birding in Cleveland.
The prose, rather than note, style of the species accounts will not be to everyone’s taste, but they are clear and accurate. I do find the artwork variable, with some nice wader vignettes, for example, Snipe and Green Sandpiper, but unusual Ross’s Gull and Mute Swan. The photographs add value to a good mix of historical and noteworthy records. Overall this account is authoritative and important, demonstrating the diversity of birds in close proximity to people and industry. In that context it is appropriately published by the Wildlife Trust and is a worthy tribute to Martin’s efforts.

Book reviewed by Andy Clements