The Wild Geese of the Newgrounds by Paul Walkden

I was very pleased to receive a review copy of the new book celebrating the wild geese of the Newgrounds and also the life of Sir Peter Scott in what would have been his centenary year. It covers the setting up of the WWT in 1946 by Sir Peter, the history of the River Severn and of course the geese themselves.

It is illustrated throughout with paintings and drawings by Sir Peter, and fascinating old photos. The book is written by Paul in a language which conveys his love of the geese and of the land, his admiration of Sir Peter (which I'm sure all like-minded individuals share) and facts and figures for the statisticians amongst us. Amongst the facts, it is a saddening one, that from the early 1970's when there was a maximum count of 7600 White-fronted Geese their numbers have dwindled to just 572 in January 2008. The sight and sound of a flock of Whitefronts on a cold winter's day can make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck, it is something everyone should experience.

Included are chapters on Ringing and Rocket Netting and Wildfowling. I found one of the most interesting aspects of the book is the five page Chronological Listing of Sir Peter Scott's life. It seems action-packed throughout his near 80 years and would make anyone view him with awe and more than a little tinge of jealousy.

With the approach of Father's Day on Sunday 21st June now is the time to make appropriate noises aimed at your children and try to stave off the usual bottle of wine, socks or Dad Dancing CD, I can thoroughly recommend it.

You can read the story of the book launch here http://www.wwt.org.uk/article/217/3034/new_book_published_for_centenary_celebrations.html

The Wild Geese of the Newgrounds is available from all WWT centres priced at £17 as well as online booksellers. All proceeds from the book will go to WWT and are earmarked for projects within the Slimbridge Centre.

Mike King 10/06/09.