At first, when you get into watching wildlife or wildlife photography, you may feel the urge to rush around and try to see everything possible. That was certainly the case for me—I wanted to walk quickly around places like WWT Slimbridge, spending less time in some spots and more in others. This would really annoy my brother, who isn’t interested in getting the perfect photo; for him, simply seeing the wonders of wildlife is enough. He prefers wandering around reserves and just sitting, observing what’s happening both near and far.

Get ready—this is the year everything truly takes flight.

I’m dedicating an entire year to exploration, curiosity, and celebrating the remarkable world of birds right here in the UK. From unexpected encounters to rare sightings, from quiet moments in local parks to journeys across new landscapes, this marks the start of a focused and exciting chapter. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or someone who’s only just begun glancing upward a little more often, this is the perfect moment to join in and see what unfolds.