Talk: Evolution of Flight - How Birds Learnt to Fly by Lev Parikian

A 45-minute talk via Zoom followed by a Q&A

Speaker: Lev Parikian, nature writer, condutor and London-based birdwatcher

A talk for everyone, including beginners.

Free to our members. Non-members welcome for a donation, see ticket info below .

From the mind-bending speed and manoeuvrability of Hummingbirds to the majestic soaring of Albatrosses, birds are masters of the air, but their flight is regarded as so normal that sometimes we forget how extraordinary it is.

Lev Parikian isn't a scientist, but with a layman's curiosity he began to investigate how animals ever got off the ground , whether it be birds, bats, butterflies or pterosaurs.

The result was a book, Taking Flight, which brought a fresh eye - and plain English laced with humour - to the evolutionary story of life on the wing. Described as "a triumph of science communication", it was shortlisted for the Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize in 2023.

Lev Parikian's talk for us explores the stories of several bird species featured in the book, including the Hummingbirds and Albatrosses mentioned above, as well as Geese, Swifts and the easily overlooked aerial skills of the humble Pigeon.

All photos above (Red Kite, Kestrel, Swifts) by Ben Andrew © rspb-images.com

About the speaker

Lev Parikian is a writer, conductor and enthusiastic birdwatcher.

In the words of Stephen Moss, "He is one of those rare beasts: a nature writer with a sense of humour."

He has written six books, including Into the Tangled Bank (longlisted for the Wainwright Prize), Light Rains Sometimes Fall, and Why Do Birds Suddenly Disappear?

He contributes to The Guardian's Country Diary column, mostly about birdwatching in London.

Lev lives in south London, where there are not nearly enough Hummingbirds.

Photo of Pink-footed Geese above by Chris Gomersall © rspb-images.com

How to join the talk

This event will be streamed live via ZOOM to members of the RSPB Central London Local Group. There is no charge for members to attend, but it is essential to book a place. (If you are sharing a screen with someone you only need one ticket.)

Non-members are also welcome to attend for a donation of your choice, which will support the work of the RSPB. Please select a non-member ticket.

If you would like to join the RSPB Central London Local Group (£10 a year or free if you are aged 16-24) please email rspb.cllg.contact@gmail.com

Newcomers are very welcome, whether you are a beginner, a seasoned birdwatcher or interested in learning more about nature and the environment in general.

Photo of Sooty Albatross above © rspb-images.com