Roger Smaldon, prominent bird-watcher and author of ‘The Birds of Dartmoor,’ was a member of the DPA since 1987. He had a fascination with the birdlife of the moor, and spent much of his time recording these birds with the Dartmoor Study Group. This was a group which he curated and led, leading like-minded birders in monitoring both native birds and migrating visitors.

‘The Birds of Dartmoor’ is the only book on this subject and it offers a wealth of information for both those new to moorland species, and people who want to deepen their knowledge. The blurb on the back reads:

‘Dartmoor is a unique natural area. A national park since 1951, it covers 368 square miles of upland moor and bog, lowland heath, deciduous valley woodland, coniferous plantations, reservoirs, rivers and farmland. In these varied habitats, 254 species and sub-species of birds have been recorded.

‘This new avifauna is both the first comprehensive history and the most complete status report to date of birds on Dartmoor. In addition to providing full details of species, it contains an introduction to Dartmoor habitats, a month-by-month description of patterns observable over a typical year, a comprehensive bibliography, as well as four maps. Mike Langman has provided line drawings of selected species and a colour frontispiece.’

Recently, we were contacted by Roger’s son, and given the sad news that Roger had passed away. Roger’s son spoke about his father with great affection, and particularly highlighted how much joy Roger had taken from his relationship with Dartmoor and it’s winged residents. The DPA are honoured to have had Roger Smaldon as a member for so many years and, in addition to his valuable written work, he has helped us to keep Dartmoor wild and free for future generations of avid birders.

‘The Birds of Dartmoor’ can still be purchased second hand from a number of outlets, and we hope that this detailed work finds its way into the hands of many more people who are enthralled by Dartmoor’s birds.