Encounters with corvids

‘Beautifully illustrated and insightful personal observations of Ireland’s crows.’
Eric Dempsey, Author, Broadcaster and Wildlife Photographer

'An intimate account of our most intelligent bird species.’
Éanna Ní Lamhna, Broadcaster and Author

‘Captivating biographies of a much-maligned group that weave together science, folklore and the author's own insights.’
Dr Alexander Lees, Reader in Biodiversity at Manchester Metropolitan University, An author of the Merlin Bird ID app, Co-author of ‘Vagrancy in Birds’

Join zoologist Dr Fionn Ó Marcaigh on a journey across Ireland, exploring stunning landscapes and sharing heartwarming stories – each as remarkable as the seven native corvids whose intelligence has allowed them to thrive where many other species have struggled.

This collection of personal encounters, scientific insights, and detailed illustrations by Aga Grandowicz blends perfectly, offering a unique perspective on this fascinating family of birds, their adaptability and the behaviours that make them so popular with seasoned birdwatchers and curious nature lovers alike.

Welcome to the world of the rook, jay, hooded crow, jackdaw, chough, magpie and raven, and seven wonderfully crafted chapters that promise to give you a new love and appreciation for these incredible birds.

Join us at the launch event on the 7th of May 2025 in The Gutter Bookshop, Temple Bar, Dublin at 6.30pm for a chat about the book's creation, book signings, author meet and greets, and some surprises. Please RSVP via Eventbrite here.

🖋️ About the Author

Dr Fionn Ó Marcaigh is a zoologist from Dublin, Ireland. He received his PhD from Trinity College Dublin in 2023, for a thesis on the evolution of birds on islands. He has studied birds in Indonesia and Madagascar, as well as many parts of Ireland. His previous publications have consisted mostly of technical publications in scientific journals. This is his first book.

🎨 About the Illustrator

Aga Grandowicz is a highly prolific, entrepreneurial, and multi-skilled art director, graphic designer, illustrator, artist, and marketer. Since 2016, she has been focusing on drawing wildlife for non-fiction books and biodiversity-related organisations. You can see her work on aga-grandowicz.com and agrand.ie

ISBN 9781739813321

Publication date 27th of April 2025 ((International Crow and Raven Appreciation Day)
A5, paperback
Illustrated (colour)
80 pages

Recommended age group: adults

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