Black Ops and Beaver Bombing: Adventures with Britain's Wild Mammals

A husband-and-wife team travel to various locations in Britain to find and document the country's rare and enigmatic animals, including bats, pine martens, squirrels, and wild boar. The book also discusses the conservation efforts needed to protect these species.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2023
Publisher: Oneworld Publications

From central Glasgow to rural Wiltshire, a husband-and-wife team embarks on a captivating journey to uncover the rarest and most enigmatic animals that call Britain their home. The country boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife, often found in the most unexpected locations. Quarries become havens for rare bats, sharing space with teenagers indulging in recreational activities. Urban parks in Glasgow provide a thriving habitat for water voles, thriving even without access to water. Along the coastlines, grey and harbour seals populate the shores, adding to the vibrant tapestry of life. However, amidst this natural wonder, a disheartening reality emerges: a quarter of British mammals are facing an imminent threat of extinction.

To embark on this extraordinary safari, Tim Kendall and Fiona Mathews are armed with binoculars, a Thermos, and an endless supply of puns. Their travels take them from the Scottish Highlands to the picturesque Isles of Scilly, in search of their elusive subjects. Prepare to be captivated by the answers to questions you never thought to ask. Do pine marten droppings truly emit a delightful fragrance reminiscent of Parma Violets? Should we provide squirrels with access to family planning? And what fascinating connections exist between wild boars and a certain royal family?

Black Ops and Beaver Bombing is a joyous celebration of Britain's magnificent mammals, serving as a rallying cry to protect them. This captivating book delves into the lives of these remarkable creatures, sharing fascinating stories from the forefront of nature conservation. The authors' passion and humor shine through on every page, making it an engaging and entertaining read.

Notable endorsements include the praise of Craig Bennett, Chief Executive of The Wildlife Trusts, who describes the book as "a cracking read, which shares fascinating stories from the new frontlines of nature conservation." Peter Fiennes, author of "Oak and Ash and Thorn," praises it as "elegiac, informative, and funny; some truly magical encounters in the wild."

With spring barely underway, this remarkable book has already found its place on my recommendation list for the remainder of the year. Whether you're an avid nature enthusiast or simply seeking an enjoyable and informative read, "Black Ops and Beaver Bombing" is a must-read that will transport you to the heart of Britain's wildlife and inspire you to contribute to their conservation.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 146 x 224 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780861545568