Birds of Chew Valley Lake: Ecology, History, Tales

"This is quite a book. Packed with information and beautifully illustrated with fine photographs, well-presented tables and graphs and with Laurel Tucker’s artwork. There are stories and opinions as well as facts and figures."  Mark Avery ~"The overall feel of the book is enhanced by Laurel Tucker's sketches, Ray Scally's specially commissioned paintings (I particularly like his 'Redstart in a snowstorm') and some fine photography. While several naturalists make major contributions, it is Keith Vinicombe's imprint that is most firmly stamped on the book. For many, he is 'Mr Chew' and a glance through the systematic list shows the initials 'KEV' after many of the rare and scarce records. Apart from the comprehensive site list, complete with trend graphs for many species, the book has chapters on the ecology of the lake and surrounding terrestrial habitats, the story of its ringing station, and the lake's history and other non-birding leisure pursuits."  Tim Harris, Bird Guides ~"For most of us the familiar is taken for granted; Chew Valley Lake is, of course, familiar to all of us but just how well do we really know it? Thankfully, there is no longer any excuse with the publication of Keith Vinicombe’s Birds of Chew Valley Lake. Keith has been studying and recording birds at CVL for nearly 60 years and this book is a celebration of not only the birds, but CVL’s diverse habitat, flora and fauna, and more."   Ken Carruthers, former chairman of sponsor ‘Bristol Ornithological Club’ ~