The Birds of Islay and Jura

 The Birds of Islay and Jura - published February 2026

After four years in preparation, a new book entitled “Birds of Islay and Jura” is now printed and available.

The book collates and presents data gathered from historical records, earlier publications on the birds of Islay, plus a wealth of present day surveys, censuses and observations from British Trust for Ornithology, RSPB and more. The databases and annual reports of the Argyll Bird Club and Islay Natural History Trust were invaluable. The book also benefits from contributions to the species accounts from local expert birders. All relevant records to the end of 2025 are included.

It is the first complete account of the comparatively under-recorded bird life of Jura.

The book follows a similar format to The Birds of Colonsay and Oronsay by David Jardine, Mike Peacock and Ian Fisher, and The Birds of Bute by Ron Forrester, Ian Hopkins and Doug Menzies. There are 416 full-colour pages including brief descriptions for both islands on habitats, land use and geology. Detailed texts are given for each species giving historic and current status.  Over 150 graphs, 90+ charts and 60 maps depict monthly and annual occurrence and population trends, breeding distribution details, breeding and peak counts for many species and protected areas on Islay and Jura. The book includes over 180 photographs, all taken on Islay and Jura, illustrating many species and habitats.

Self-published with partial funding from Argyll Bird Club, Scottish Ornithologist's Club, Islay Energy Trust and Bruichladdich Distillery's Botanist Foundation, it is available directly from the author, Peter Roberts at £25 + £4.95 p&p. 

Email to: cisticolas4ever@btinternet.com with your name and address and payment details will be given. Alternatively, visit https://crex-press.sumupstore.com/ . If you are on Islay, you can come and collect directly from me at Cabrfeidh Bungalow, Bruichladdich (contact me @ 07919 941750 to make sure I'm in!) - or I can deliver for £25 + £3 delivery charge.