The Berkshire Bird Bulletin

Every month since October 1986, a bulletin of birds seen in the county in that period has been produced. Initially it was issued on specific sites that at that time were being underwatched and for which insufficient historic data was available to defend any inappropriate development. These sites were mainly in the East of the county. Gradually, more observers in that sector were encouraged to submit their sightings and the project grew. After a few years, the ROC asked if sightings in the rest of the county could be incorporated and since that time, birdwatchers of all abilities have been submitting records from gardens, walks and favourite patches.

As soon as it was possible, compilation converted to electronic means in order that the submissions, whether by written lists, cards or Excel format could be compiled in a method compatible with the needs of the county database. This enables those deterred by the task of completing a full annual record for the county report to instead send in their sightings a month at a time, knowing they will also find their way onto the main database.

Today, the Bulletin has expanded to typically a 20 ? 25 page document, together with a summary editorial and a number of colour pictures from local photographers of some of the specific birds mentioned in the report. Most people now submit records via an Excel format sent to new subscribers. Every species is dealt with, including all the common ones, so it is not just a list of scarcities.

Obtainable by subscription, the e-mail version is £3 per annum, the posted version £10. Please send a cheque made out to ?COS? to Brian Clews, Berkshire Bird Bulletin, PO Box 680, Maidenhead, Berks, SL6 9ST, including your name, address, telephone number and (if relevant) your e-mail address. A sample can be sent first if required.