I read today in The Guardian on-line an article to decide on a good "national bird" for the UK. Well, there is a stack of criteria to weigh up, and you can actually vote! Whichever you choose it needs to reflect a strong positive image for the UK, but I really think that the good 'ole US has the concept of a national bird sewn-up fairly well, with the brilliant Bald Eagle on everything from a flag to a mug. 

It has to be said, that most of the shortlisted choices are really good - strong on a sort of "British" image, or are cute, with a good range from the Wren to the Red Kite. I am not sure a Puffin (lives in a hole in the ground) does it for me though, and the Red Kite is not prolific enough (although there are a good few around here). 

artic tern

I think being an island nation we deserve a sea-bird. Also, I happen to have a shot of an Arctic Tern.

Handy...