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Book Review: Bird Photographer of the Year, Collection 9

Cover Photo, Bird Photographer of the Year BPOTY 2024 Volume 9

The Bird Photographer of the Year competition is an annual celebration of avian imagery that captures some of the most breathtaking photographs of birds from around the globe.The competition is open to photographers of all ages, from anywhere in the world, and features some of the world’s best bird photography…..

Panasonic Lumix G9II Camera Review for Wildlife Photography

A close-up of a Panasonic Lumix G9II camera held by a hand, with a blurred green grass background.

I’ve been using the superb Panasonic Lumix G9 Micro-four-thirds camera for my wildlife photography since I reviewed it here on the site back in 2018, not long after its release. It was… and indeed still is… a fantastic camera for wildlife. With the announcement of the Lumix G9II in late….

Vortex Razor HD 27-60×85 Spotting Scope Review

A Vortex Razor HD Spotting Scop looking out over the Irish coast

Pros: Bright, sharp, high-contrast image that delivers plenty of detail at lower magnifications across a wide range of conditions. Large objective lens pulls in plenty of light through twilight and beyond, focus ring integrated into scope body is quick and accurate. Reasonably compact for a full-size scope. Excellent build quality….

Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10×32 Binocular Review

A person reviewing the Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10x32 binoculars.

Pros: Fantastic edge-to-edge image quality, sublime ergonomics, great low-light performance and a field of view to rival many 8x binoculars, coupled with outstanding build quality — the NL Pure 10×32 is an exceptional binocular up there with the very best.Cons: While they are svelte, the barrels on the NL Pure are long….

Vortex Razor UHD 10×42 Binocular Review

Vortex Razor UHD Binocular Review by Ireland's Wildlife

Pros: Superb image quality that lives up the name. Exceptionally bright, pin-sharp image across the wide field of view. Smooth, accurate focus and outstanding build quality rounds off what is a very accomplished binocular that holds its own with the best on the market.Cons: A little on the large side for a….

Vanguard VEO HD 2 8×42 Binocular Review

Vanguard VEO HD Birding and Wildlife Binocular

Pros: High quality optics that deliver premium features and a high-performance viewing experience at a reasonable price point. Sharp, contrasty image impresses in a range of challenging viewing conditions. Bright, vivid colours that make the image “pop”.Cons: Twist up eyecups are plastic, rather than metal, Vanguard Warranty dropped from 25….

Review: Hawke Frontier APO 10×42 Binocular

Hawke’s Frontier APO is the new flagship binocular model from a brand with a reputation for offering the best value for money in the business. With a host of premium features, at a price-point that undercuts market leaders by a significant margin, we find out how Hawke’s new top-of-the-range birding….

Book Review: Crossbill Guides, Ireland

For a small island perched on the edge of the north Atlantic, right on the periphery of Europe, Ireland is home to a wonderful array of flora and fauna, and the diverse mosaic of habitats that they call home. As a wildlife and nature enthusiast visiting Ireland, it can all….

German Precision Optics (GPO) Passion HD 10×42 Binocular Review

The GPO Passion HD 10x42 Binocular reviewed by Ireland's Wildlife

Pros: Premium quality build and high-end features combined with outstanding optics at a lower price point than most top binocular brands. Image is pin sharp and contrasty across the wide field of view, and colours pop, yet still appear natural and neutral, with no obvious colour cast.Cons: Feels a little….

Sofirn SC31 Pro LED Torch Review

200m throw SC31Pro from Sofirn

Pros: High-performance compact rechargeable LED torch. Variable light output and versatile functions. Convenient integrated USB C charging of 18650 Lithium Ion battery (included).Cons: Can get hot in Turbo mode. “Anduril” user interface can be a bit of a handful to access more advanced features.The Sofirn SC31 Pro is a great….

Sofirn IF25A LED Torch Review

The scary Anduril UI flowchart

Pros: Super bright and compact. Massive versatility in light output and functions. Extremely lightweight and portable for a light this powerful. Great battery life. USB C in body charging for the included 21700 Lithium Ion battery.Cons: Heats up quickly at highest output level (built in thermoregulation safety feature kicks in)…..

Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10×42 Binocular Review

Swarovski Optik NL Pure 10x42 Binocular Review

Pros: The best binocular I have ever used: period. Exquisite ergonomics, incredible image clarity across the field of view… and what a field of view. The NL Pure takes immersive viewing to a whole new level.Cons: Slight detectable seam in the rubber armour where it meets on the inside of the barrels…..