Encounters with corvids

'Unkind collective nouns and ominous screen depictions are rejected in this glowing tribute to corvids. The book is part travelogue of the places around the country Fionn Ó Marcaigh has gone for his work with the birds. Ó Marcaigh has a lovely style, knowledgeable without being preachy and full of warm anecdotes and sharp observation. His enthusiasm for these much-misunderstood birds is infectious, and he leaves us with a reminder of our responsibility to consider all the creatures of the world we share: “People often treat corvids unfairly... if they make us uncomfortable, it is because we are unused to looking at a bird and having it look back at us, taking our measure.'

Ger Siggins, The Irish Daily Mail

'An enlightening book for adults about seven species of common Irish birds. It features stunning illustrations from Aga Grandowicz, which bring personality to the rooks and ravens that Fionn O'Marcaigh introduces us to'.

Sara Keating, The Irish Times

'In each bite-sized chapter, the author, a zoologist, shares first-hand stories and anecdotes that attest to the intriguing ways of these most intelligent birds. With a gentle way of telling, this endearing little book reveals the wonders of these much maligned and hugely underestimated birds.'

Anja Murray, The Irish Examiner

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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.

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

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

‘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’

🖋️ 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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