The Condor’s Feather: Travelling Wild in South America

‘One spring morning, as the cuckoos were arriving in England, we departed. At Tilbury Docks we slowly edged our Toyota camper into a shipping container and, like a heron scooping a frog from a marsh, our container was hoisted high over the dockside. Inside was everything we needed, our new life bound for South America.’ After a vicious attack left Michael Webster in treatment for years, it was only his love of nature – in particular birds – that truly healed. Repaying this debt to nature, he and his wife embarked on their trip of a lifetime, travelling through South America; immersed in the wild, following and filming birds. For over four years Michael and Paula travelled the length of the Andes, the greatest mountain chain on Earth. From penguins in Patagonia, up beyond the hummingbirds of the equator, to the flamingos of the Caribbean. They endured dust storms, thundering gales, icy mountain tops and skin-searing heat, and tested the limits of their physical and mental strength as they lived wild, month after month, camping under galaxies of diamond stars. The Condor’s Feather is testament to the possibility of new adventures, new friendships and new hope. ‘Michael Webster conveys just why South America’s rare birds and wildlife need saving – and provides inspiration for all of us to do our bit to help.’ James Lowen, author, naturalist & editor of Neotropical Birding   ‘If you love reading about birds and adventure, this is the book for you … A book which will sit in the top 10 for 2022, I’m sure.’ Birdwatching magazine   ‘Exemplary … a beautifully written account which delves deeply into not only the birds of South America, but also the human beings who live around them and protect them. The book reflects a deep understanding and appreciation for the South American continent accrued from years of travel and active engagement with the region and goes above and beyond the well-trod ground of the “went to a place and saw a bird” narrative.’ American Birding Association   ‘Entertaning’ Campervan magazine   ‘Authentic overland-inspired summer reading.’ Truck Camper Magazine   ‘Take a healing journey through South America following and filming birds like penguins, hummingbirds and flamingos. A compelling, escapist, wildlife lover’s adventure. For fans of The Salt Path.’ The Bookseller   ‘This is the story of how a dream about touring South America in a demountable came true. If you want to get inspired, or just immerse yourself in a very different culture and meet interesting characters, then take a look.’ Motorhome Monthly Magazine   ‘Their adventures are numerous and at times heart-stopping … The wonders of nature extolled in this book lift the heart and generate wanderlust.’ Perceptive Travel Read an extract. The ebook is also available to buy from your favourite e-retailer.