Helen Macdonald

Helen Macdonald is a writer and naturalist. Her books include H is for Hawk and Vesper Flights (Jonathan Cape).

By Helen Macdonald

By Helen Macdonald

By Helen Macdonald

By Helen Macdonald

All Articles

I thought that I could retreat from the world outside, like a hedgehog or ladybird. But after Covid we…

By Helen Macdonald

This time last year I went for a very ordinary walk, unaware of the disruption, trauma and solitude that…

By Helen Macdonald

I am left feeling unnerved by the sudden presence of a bird wreathed in superstition and legend at my kitchen window.

By Helen Macdonald

These are not eye-catching creatures. Field guides often describe them as “undistinguished”. But, in this unfamiliar and far from…

By Helen Macdonald

An exotic, acquisitive bird-watching trip on the other side of the world already feels like an artefact of another age.…

By Helen Macdonald

The humble berry can bring festive magic – and rare winter visitors.

By Helen Macdonald

What I’m witnessing is the nuptial flight of a species called Lasius niger, the common black ant

By Helen Macdonald

Author and naturalist Helen Macdonald reflects on creating homes for nesting birds, and the joy she gets in return

By Helen Macdonald