John worked in forestry from 1970 - 76 and then John worked for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds  1976 – 1991 including several reserves around Britain including Loch Garten [Osprey warden], Kinnordy, Vane Farm, Fairburn Yorkshire all short term while Geltsdale, Cumbria was for 9 years managing 12,000 acres/5000 hectares of moor land, lakes and rivers adding 260 acres/ 105Ha woodland . Additional work included lecturing, guided walks, working with the communities.

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He has written several wildlife books on topics like Hadrian's Birds and Lakeland Wildlife.

 

John has worked 2 years in Egypt with the World Bank creating a book called Pharaohs Birds.

In 2000, he organised the first ever wildlife festival for the UK called ‘Hadrian’s Bird Festival running for 9 days including lectures, where to watch, wildlife walks, Shop display competition, School painting competition, trade stands, accommodation etc

He has 2 books in the 'Best Birdwatching Guides' - The Solway and Yorkshire [where he was born] Also a few chapters in the NE England guide.

 

His last book on wildlife was 'Hadrian's Wildlife' expanding on his first book.

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John is freelance for the monthly magazine 'Birdwatching' which he has worked for since 1990 and occasionally for another one called 'Birdwatch' .

 

He is a specialist working with a number of species like Barn Owl, Swift, Pied Flycatcher and loves Birds of Prey especially Predator/Prey relationships .

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LECTURES PROVIDED BY JOHN...

 

• The Solway - the whole of Cumbria and Dumfries & Galloway;

• Hadrian’s Wildlife - History of birds back to Roman times + many present day locations to visit;

• Death on the Nile - looks at the history of birds from Ancient Egypt to present time birds while cruising the Nile;

• Mull: Not just Eagles! - year round look at this island;

• Go Birding - follows John around Britain in search of articles in ‘Go Birding’ in Bird Watching magazine;

• British Bee-eaters - Will they ever BEE Every Year!;

• Caithness - the forgotten part of Scotland!;

• Islay - Not just Geese!;

• Yorkshire - Not just a White Rose!