We are delighted to announce a partnership with Crossbill Guides Foundation in the Netherlands to bring to our readers a range of nature guides to some of the most fascinating parts of Europe. Like ourselves, Crossbill Guides is a non-profit organisation with an objective to inspire and educate travellers of all ages in the matters of natural history.

We are fortunate that, in an age of economic and physical development, there remain areas of wilderness and natural heritage that increasing numbers of people want to be refreshed and inspired by. Small-scale, low impact tourism can support the conservation of these areas by helping to establish a sustainable economy for local communities and by advancing the conservation of these areas on the political agenda.

Dirk Hilbers and his colleagues at Crossbill Foundation, with their series of guides to some of Europe's most precious wildlife resources, have given us a detailed insight to the habitats of these regions and the fascinating wildlife that can be found. The books provide a vivid account of the natural history of the area, plus a wealth of practical information varying from route descriptions to tips to find birds, wildlife and wildflowers and nature-friendly accommodation and other information for tourism that supports the conservation of the area.

These books will be essential companions to those intending a visit to the places concerned and we start a new collaborative series with the amazing landscape and wildlife of the Hortobágy in Hungary. Additional titles will be added in the months and years ahead.