I-Spy books (1 Viewer)

It just came to me that a lot of my interest in wild birds/animals and nature in general came about due to the fact my mother used to buy me "I-Spy" books. "I-Spy British Birds" for instance, where you had to write in a date and place against each bird you had seen. I think it may be because this made it a challenge, sort of like a birding list.

Was anyone else an avid collector of I-spy books? Or what was it that initially got you interested in bird watching?

Susan

I know I should not say this, but it was birdnesting with my Grandad.

Hpefully repaid my dues now after many years working in wildlife conservation.

Like you Susan I filled in loads of I-Spy books as a kid and even sent off for the badges I suppose they were a handy thing to keep the kids occupied on journeys as we always seemed to be having trips out to all sorts of places.

i liked the i-spy bugs one!

I joined the I-Spy Club. Remember Big Chief I-Spy. However it was a Kestrel that got me into birds. I had the Observers Book of Birds (still have a copy). My Dad always used to point out 'Sparrowhawks' hovering at the back of the house. A boy at school told me they were Kestrels. he showed me his book. Collins Pocket Guide to Birds. He showed me a picture of a Glossy Ibis he had seen with his dad in Suffolk. He also showed me a picture of the Kestrel. I saved my pocket money and bought the book. It cost me 25shillings. If you are still out there Paul Collins thankyou!