BWP is one of the most important ornithological references. It takes account of the great advances that have been made in ornithology since the publication of the Handbook of British Birds (1938-41) by HF Witherby et al. It is a massive undertaking, unlikely to be replaced for many years. With the publication of Volume 9 in 1994, this major series is now complete. However, there is the two-volume Concise Edition (1997) and a CD-ROM Edition, incorporating some 200 new plates (replacing the originals), at least 70 new species accounts, and updated texts. To prevent BWP becoming out of date, there is also the BWP Journal providing new species accounts, taxonomic revisions, and relevant articles.
"monumental and utterly indispensable undertaking"
- Clive Hutchinson, British Birds