The writing of the species accounts has begun and such is the dedication of the authors that some even forsook the opportunity to go for glory in the 'January Challenge' instead devoting precious time to the task in hand. Well at least that's my excuse for languishing in the 80s.

Early progress also in the search for funding. Sales of Brick Budgie's CD: 'Trouble at Millet' have raised around £320 so far. £380 has already been received in species sponsorship with a further £280 pledged. Very many thanks to all those who have got involved so far.

Well that's just about the first thousand pounds seen to. Just another £8,000 or so to go. We live in cash-strapped times but David Wood and Pete Brown will pursue what is possible with funding applications and of course the usual stance is that potential funders will ask for some form of matched funding. So in the meantime, if you haven't already done so, please consider giving £20 to sponsor a species if you can afford to. There are still loads of cracking birds to go for: Goshawk, Buzzard, Kingfisher, all the chats and thrushes and all bar one of the warblers to mention but a few. There's got be at least one species that's special to you. Feral Pigeon anyone?

To sponsor a species get in touch with Pete Brown (peterbrown@blueyonder.co.uk) or 01142967363 or better still come brandishing a cheque book at an indoor meeting.

Pete Brown .