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Birdwatch

Archived since January/February 1992
Complete Archive

411 issues

Birdwatch is Britain’s leading monthly publication for birding enthusiasts and a vital reference for ornithological study across the Western Palearctic. Since its launch in 1992, Birdwatch has built a comprehensive digital archive of almost 400 issues, updated monthly, providing a unique record of birds and birding in Britain, Ireland and beyond.

Each edition explores a broad spectrum of birding topics – including species profiles, vagrancy and migration, taxonomy, conservation and current affairs – alongside in-depth content such as:

  • Detailed identification guides
  • Reviews of optics, cameras and other birding gear
  • Tips to enhance your birding from our expert team
  • Travel itineraries for top birding destinations 
Thanks to the fully searchable archive, accessing decades of curated content is simple and efficient. Whether you're looking for historical data, specialist advice, or species-specific insights, the platform enables precise research, making Birdwatch an indispensable tool for naturalists, birders and conservation professionals alike.

Latest Issue:

Caught by surprise
Mark Grantham remembers the unexpected rarities that have been caught during routine ringing operations. 

Fortunes of the village dove
Ed Stubbs examines the rapid arrival and concerning fall of one of Britain’s best-known avian colonists: Collared Dove. 

Field ID notes: Long-legged Buzzard
Grow your confidence with this challenging raptor. David Cooper provides expert tips. 

The art of rewilding
After a year of charting a landscape’srevival through pencil and brush, we showcase the work of the Society of Wildlife Artists at Massingham Heath. 

Buff and ready
Sam Jones profiles a peculiar wader that has become an emblem of autumn birding. 

Moving with the times
Dr Alexander Lees gives a reality check on reintroduction projects in a warming world. 

Legends of BirdGuides 
Some rarities have turned into ‘celebrities’ through extraordinary stays and faithful returns, says David Campbell.

Want a taster of Birdwatch’s content? Sign up here to New Issue Notifications to receive email alerts each time a new issue is published, alongside its editorial highlights.

Subscription Features

  • Fully-searchable access to the growing archive of current and back issues.
  • Inclusive accessibility features, such as plain text and 'Read Aloud' technology.
  • Unlimited IP-authenticated access and remote access options available.
  • Cross-platform compatibility with all Web, iOS and Android devices.
  • Usage reports, KBART data, MARC records and excellent customer support.

IP Access

Seamless IP-authenticated access on a range of platforms including web, iOS and Android.

Fully Searchable

Advanced search feature allowing you to search by title, issue and year.

Comprehensive Support

Enjoy high quality and prompt technical support from our dedicated team.

  • First Issue: January/February 1992
  • Latest Issue: September 2026
  • Issue Count: 411
  • Published: Monthly
  • ISSN: 2978-3569, ISSN 2978-3577, ISSN 2978-3585
  • MARC record