Bill Bailey

The comedian shares his passion for all things avian anda a life watching British birds.

How did you first become interested in birds? It came from my parents. As a child, we’d go on outings to bird sanctuaries or wetland centres. I had a checklist of birds and I’d tick them off.

What made you decide to write a guide?

The idea of a bird diary-come-sketchbook seemed intriguing and fun. Stories immediately came to mind. The book is light-hearted but useful – it fills a niche between a reference book and books that have an emotional connection with wildlife, such as H is for Hawk. I chose birds that are commonplace – species that anyone can see from their window, as I want it also to be a book for people who have never considered birds before.

How does humour help to spread the bird word?

Comedy is a way of getting across all kinds of messages. If people are laughing, you can slip in some learning.

What’s special about Britain’s birds?

For a small island we’re very well served. Yes, we have lots of little brown birds, but they’re all subtly different. And some of our species have extraordinary colours – jays and kingfishers are every bit as dazzling as tropical birds. We also have lots of seabirds and all sorts of interesting migrants are blown in – the diversity is amazing.

What’s been your most memorable encounter with a British bird?

I once saw a sparrowhawk take down a pigeon outside an office in Soho. It was a very visceral bit of nature. I also succeeded in a challenge to see a redthroated diver on Shetland – that was a fantastic spot.

Is there a species you’d like to see but haven’t yet?

The odder rarities, such as the corncrake, and rare visitors like the bee-eater, which I’ve seen in Spain.

Is there an unsung hero in the bird world?

Pigeons are almost discounted, but they’re amazing fliers. And wrens are incredibly hardy birds – I’ve heard them everywhere from the remote Highlands to town and cities.

IF PEOPLE ARE LAUGHING, YOU CAN SLIP IN SOME LEARNING.”