The Birds of Eigg

27th May 2013

To those interested in wildlife the name John Chester and the Island of Eigg go hand in hand, although he is perhaps better known to visitors and locals as 'John the Bird'. John is the ultimate "patch watcher" and his knowledge through the seasons on this much-loved hebridean island is unsurpassed. John is the Scottish Wildlife Trust warden on Eigg, the SWT getting involved as a partner in the original island buy-out. John's first annual report was produced in 1986 and over the years they have added to his library of knowledge culminating in this new guide, a fitting tribute to one man's work and dedication, supported by the local community. There have been many ornithological highlights including Bridled Tern in 1993, Golden Oriole in 1994 and Red-breasted Flycatcher in 1997. More recently, Glossy Ibis and Woodlark have been the stars. This well illustrated guide comprises an extremely valuable checklist, with lots of information and many humorous anecdotes. It will be a must for those who enjoy their birding in the west Highlands, and will encourage many to visit this wonderful and thriving hebridean gem. The guide is published by the Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust and is available from http://www.isleofeigg.net/the_bird_book.html The cost is £12 including p&p and all proceeds from the sale will go towards woodland improvement projects.

THE BOOK

"A glorious little gem"

AMAZON

"A book such as this has to look backwards and the author does so succinctly, looking at the work of several of the pioneering naturalists before picking out the publications of JA Harvie-Brown and the Rev. Hugh Macpherson. I know this book fills a real gap in the information available for the Isle of Skye and it will surely sell well at local bookshops."

Andrew Currie Miscellany West Highland Free Press

"A total of 238 species have been recorded, with 14 of those 'red listed' as of high conservation concern ... another innovation has been the inclusion of Gaelic names for some birds. While this is not uncommon in a few other books, the addition of some regional Gaelic names is very unusual and very welcome."

Ray Collier Country Diary 'Up in the Skye' The Guardian

"Illustrated with beautiful photographs of current birdlife on the island, the publication also features sketches by Jean Thomas of The Little Gallery, Portnalong, stimulating the reader's interest further and allowing them to identify species they encounter on Skye."

The Hebridean