Product Description

This work is a celebration of the natural history of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. It features 40 sites, including: the best places to see flora and fauna in a variety of habitats across the county and on the islands; suggested walks; and, approximately 580 species.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #122810 in Books
• Published on: 2007-03-29
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 256 pages

Review
Wild about Cornwall was chosen as Book of the Month by Tim Smit for the BBC Wildlife magazine: 'Thorougly recommeded.' (BBC Wildlife July 2007)'This is an excellent book for the family as well as for the specialist and the words, which accompany the pictures, are very informative.' (Packet Newspapers 23.02.07) For the full review see Packet Newspapers online'a book that truly qualifies as a "must have" for anyone who loves Cornwall and its natural history and wildlife.' (The Cornishman, 08.03.07)'David's latest venture gathers together all his talents and passions. Wild about Cornwall is a glossy picture-led book revealing the best places to go to experience the natural history of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.' (Western Morning News, 24.03.07)'This is riveting reading for naturalists, with the book's piece de resistance being the photography. Over 280 gorgeous colour images ... . If you enjoy reading our nature features, we promise you'll love this.' (Caravan Club Magazine, March 2007)'Beautifully designed, with a clear lay-out and exceptional photographic reproduction, it's a real gem.' (Western Morning News, 10.04.07) For the full review, see This is Devon'I would not be the least bit surprised, come the Guild awards for excellence next year, to find David Chapman once again among the serious contenders. ...'... Wild about Cornwall displays not only Nature's Art, but an artist at work.' (Terry Marsh, Outdoor Writers and Photographers Guild Magazine, April 2007)'Details of the chosen locations include, where relevant, a brief history of the site, a description of the conservation strategies used there and a close look at some of the key species.' (Wild Cornwall, no. 102, Spring 2007)'Chapman's eye is such that the reader can be forgiven for feeling that nature compliantly arranged itself for the perfect photograph. But, of course, it is his ability to capture scenes from a different viewpoint that heightens the ordinary into the sublime.' (Tavistock Times Gazette, 05.04.07)

About the Author
David Chapman has lived in Cornwall since 1992. He came to the county to teach, but has since developed a career as a wildlife photographer and writer. His articles can be seen in a wide range of publications, and his photography graces the pages of a multitude of magazines, newspapers, books and calendars. David is committed to protecting wildlife in the county, and is a trustee of the Cornwall Wildlife Trust.

Customer Reviews

Wild about this book
(...)
Although Scottish, I have felt a strong affinity for Cornwall since cycling there from here when I was seventeen. It has always seemed to me that Cornwall is like a fine Scottish Isle, only milder and sunnier! My wife and I began married life living in West Cornwall and enjoyed five happy years until my job took us away. Now back in Scotland (twelve years after leaving - yikes!) I was looking for a special book. It had to convey the natural variety and Celtic beauty of the county. Also, to ensure that our growing children sit through each ten hour car journey in expectation rather than resentment, the book had to suggest gardens to visit, walks to take, beaches to play on, coves to explore, you get the jist!
'Wild About Cornwall' is a very special book indeed. It is beautifully illustrated with hundreds of full colour photographs taken by the author. It therefore has the feel of a coffee table book and yet can be slipped in your rucksack and taken along for the ride. The main body contains FORTY days out to choose from - each with it's own section detailing how to get there, what to expect and look for and WOW those pictures to make you all (kids included) want to 'go see'!
I really enjoy revisiting places I know quite well already (The Hayle Estuary, Tehidy Park, Godrevy , Goonhilly Downs) through David's eyes and his writing. I felt a pang of guilt at the species I had failed to detect on my own walks in these places! Another, at the care the author has gone to in order to share passionately the mix of natural and human history which has led to Cornwall being the uniquely beautiful place that it is.
There is a fold out colour map of Cornwall inside the back cover where the author has displayed all 40 locations detailed in the book. The book also contains appendices containing sensible and clear advice about how to get the most from each trip, what you can expect to see month by month and even a note explaining those numbers on the lenses of your binoculars!
I recommend this book to anyone who may visit the county , has an interest in the natural history of our country or would value a fabulous collection of photographs of a wide range of birds, flowers and habitats.

For everyone who loves Cornwall
A marvellous insight into the flora and fauna of Cornwall and a comprehensive guide to the county. It is a "must have" for the intrepid explorer of the wild southwest. Once picked up,this book is difficult to put down and it will so frequently be used that a hardback copy would be beneficial. The photography is first class and it really is a bargain at the price.