Exercise 3 solution (sample answer)

Bird: a small brown bird on a garden fence.
1. Impression: sparrow-like, compact and plump.
2. Size and shape: smaller than a pigeon, short thick bill, short tail.
3. Field marks: pale eyestripe, streaked back, no wing bars.
4. Behaviour and habitat: hops on the ground in a small flock, garden edge.
5. Sound: repeated chirps.
Most information: steps 1 and 4 usually narrow the choice fastest. Least: step 5 if you hear nothing. Your own answers will differ; the point is a line for each step, and honest "could not see" notes where needed.