I think that the birding community in the UK has a very different 'profile' from that of other western European nations.
In the UK, a much larger percentage of the population would probably claim to be 'interested' in birdwatching than in any other European nation, perhaps largely thanks to the long standing efforts of organisations such as RSPB and BTO, and the fact that most birding literature is published in English. Huge numbers of people enjoy feeding garden birds, and many read the popular birding magazines, regularly visit reserves, and take holidays to 'easy' birding destinations (Lesvos, Florida etc.).
But I would suggest that the birding communities in other west European nations, although much smaller percentages of the overall populations, nevertheless typically have a higher proportion of more committed and proactive field birders.
By way of example, the UK has an incredible number (25+?) of very successful bird tour companies, reflecting the huge domestic market for birders who want to travel for birds but are typically uncomfortable about independent travel (particularly outside the western world) and/or do not feel competent to find the birds for themselves.
In contrast, a brief perusal of recently published trip reports (e.g
http://www.travellingbirder.com)
for the more 'leading edge' birding destinations will reveal that, taking relative numbers into account, a far greater pioneering spirit thrives among our western European neighbours. Perhaps it is partly a reflection of the insular and conservative British character.
On numerous independent trips (and a few organised tours), I have met many Dutch, Scandinavian and other European birders, and have invariably been impressed by their level of knowledge and skill compared with the 'average' Brit abroad.
Richard