Birds as Individuals

Miss Howard’s book of bird observation is the most remarkable I have ever read * Spectator *An unforgettable contribution to ornithological literature * Sphere *One of the bird books of all time; bird lovers take notice and do not miss * Lilliput   *This charming book is illustrated by excellent photographs taken by Eric Hosking * News Chronicle *Original and detailed… The book is full of original observations and is a valuable addition to bird behaviour * Guardian *A whole new field of exploration and delight is open to naturalists * Observer *A charming book. To all those interested in birds…I have no hesitation in recommending this book * Sunday Times *Completely fascinating…a unique and valuable contribution to the literature on bird behaviour * Times Literary Supplement *

Len Howard (1894-1973) was a British naturalist and musician best known for her studies of birds, published as Birds as Individuals (1952) and Living with Birds (1956).

In her early life, Howard pursued a career in music in London, giving music lessons, organising concerts for the children of the poor and playing the viola professionally in an orchestra under Malcolm Sargent. In 1938, she purchased a plot of land outside the village of Ditchling, Sussex, and built the house she called Bird Cottage. There she developed an intimate and unusual relationship with the wild birds in the area, providing food (including her own war rations), chasing away predators, tending to damaged nests, and allowing the birds to fly and roost throughout her home. Her musical training gave her a unique insight into the diverse character of birdsong. Howard died at Bird Cottage in 1973.