The Book of Birds has inspired a mass action that will show MPs that nature matters and how they can help it recover.
Wildlife lovers from across the UK will gather in Westminster on 24 June to speak directly to their MPs. The lobby is a chance for people like you to be a catalyst for change and give our threatened birds a voice. You don't have to be an expert - your passion for nature is what matters.
Meeting our MPs is a powerful way to help make sure our vulnerable species have a fighting chance. Sign up to join us on 24 June and meet your MP.
On 7 May, Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris’s beautiful new book, the ‘Book of Birds: a Field Guide to Wonder and Loss’, was released.
From Curlews and Bitterns to Puffins and Turtle Doves, the duo’s eye-catching poetic writing and artwork shines the spotlight on 49 of our most threatened species. It’s a magical and honest exploration of ‘who’ these birds are, their connection to humans, the challenges they face and what losing them would mean.
The Book of Birds introduces readers to 49 threatened species. However, in the UK over 70 species are currently on the Red list of Birds of Conservation Concern. In fact, the UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world, with one in six of our species at risk from extinction.
Without action to restore our precious wildlife and the habitats it relies on, we stand to lose these species forever. So, it’s time to act.
We need to show MPs that they must do more for birds and nature. That’s why we’re taking inspiration from Robert Macfarlane, Jackie Morris and the brilliant Book of Birds to lobby MPs in Westminster.
Meeting our MPs is a powerful way to help make sure our vulnerable species have a fighting chance. Sign up to join us on 24 June and meet your MP.
Once you’re signed up, we’ll help you prepare to meet your MP and answer any questions you might have. For example, we have lots of handy information on how to get the most out of meeting your MP.
On the day of the lobby, the RSPB will host a welcome event for all lobbyists at Methodist Central Hall in Westminster. There, just a short walk from Parliament, you’ll have the chance to chat to your fellow lobbyists and nature lovers before heading for your meeting together.
You'll also hear from inspirational authors and speakers including the Book of Birds author-artist duo Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris, RSPB Ambassadors Nadeem Perera and Lucy Lapwing and science communicator Sophie Pavelle. Plus, the RSPB Campaigns team will be on hand to talk to you about their latest work and answer any questions you have.
All you need to do is share your story, connection and vision for the future of nature, whether it’s big or small. For example, you could discuss concerns about your patch or share grand ambitions for national action. The key is to let your passion shine through. Join us and help put nature at the heart of decision making.
The Nature on the Edge report is also a great place to find ideas, as it breaks down exactly what nature needs to recover.
Robert and Jackie’s Book of Birds is a perfect example of how art and storytelling can be a catalyst for change. It combines stunning artwork and lyrical poetry to remind us all why nature still matters.
In recognition of the book’s impact, Wingbeat magazine, our publication for RSPB members aged 13 –18, is holding the ‘Wings and Words’ art competition in the run up to the lobby (open until 27 May). The winning entry will be displayed alongside some of Jackie’s wonderful artwork during the Wonder, Loss and Action lobby.
We’ve also developed a free schools resource pack to help bring the accompanying book, ‘An Explorers Guide to The Book of Birds’, to life for pupils of all ages.
Great things happen when people work together for nature – it’s exactly how the RSPB’s story started. By meeting our MPs, we can make sure our precious species remain more than just pictures and words in a field guide.
Together, we can rewrite their fate.
Together we fly.
Our Campaigns team is available to help at wonderlossandaction@rspb.org.uk.