Birdwatch News Archive

Independent journalist wins RSPB medal

Mike McCarthy and RSPB president, Julian Pettifer. Photo: RSPB-images.com

Mike is well known for his in-depth articles about conservation, wildlife and the environment. Whenever the subject is bird-related his personal knowledge comes to the fore, betraying the fact that Mike himself is an experienced birdwatcher.

The medal was awarded at the RSPB's AGM this month, and was presented by RSPB President Julian Pettifer.

Graham Wynne, the RSPB’s ChiefExecutive, said: "One of the things thatmakes Michael McCarthy stand out from the other environmental correspondents,and there are some good ones out there, is his passion for promoting wildlifestories.

"Mike is only too proud to talk about the beauty thatbirds and plants and insects bring to our lives, and because he cares so muchabout wildlife itself, he does a fantastic job in bringing that wonder to thegeneral public, and in reminding other decision-makers that there are millionsof people who care about the natural world."

First awarded in 1908, this is the first time it has beenpresented to a journalist. Past winners include Sir David Attenborough, Rt Hon JohnGummer, Bill Oddie, Robert Gillmor and Chris Mead.

Read The Independent’s environment stories online at http://environment.independent.co.uk