Enthusiasts of our feathered friends have been visiting The Gambia for many years, with over 540 colourful species being so readily accessible even in this tiny country. So much has been learnt about the haunts and habitats for each breed that extensive assistance from local tour guides enables wide ranging field trips to be undertaken to cater for each and every ornithologist's needs.

Resident expert and author Clive Barlow has published a book with co-author Tim Wacher (illustrations by Tony Disley) entitled "A Field Guide to the Birds of The Gambia and Senegal" which makes the ideal traveling companion for the discerning, globetrotting bird watcher pursuing their favourite interest.

Even for the uninitiated among us, the sight and sound of so many exotic species is a sight to behold, many appearing right outside the hotel windows.