In 2019, Tony Putman, a gardener working in Edenbridge, Kent, spotted a fearless robin perched on a branch of an old plum tree. As he approached, the robin stayed, allowing Tony to snap a quick photo. This marked the beginning of a remarkable friendship and the first of hundreds of photos Tony would capture of the bird, whom he affectionately named Bob. As Tony began sharing stunning photos of Bob on his social media account, “Putman and Robin,” he was met with an outpouring of love — not just for Bob, but for robins everywhere, who bring life and song to our gardens, and a splash of vibrant red colour, even during the bleak midwinter.
Now, a beautifully illustrated book tells the story of the friendship between Tony and Bob. ‘Bob the Robin: A love letter to Britain’s favourite bird' is published by Gaia books on 31st October 2024.
Tony invites his readers on his heartfelt journey with Bob, offering a deeper look at the life of a robin for wild bird enthusiasts, while also celebrating our national affection for these lively and spirited birds. It's both an informative guide and a love letter to the robins that connect us to nature, bringing moments of joy, solace, and a sense of wonder.
Tony Putman, a dedicated gardener and wildlife photographer, has enchanted the world with his remarkable bonds with both a robin and a fox. His unique friendships with these wild creatures highlight the extraordinary connections that can exist between humans and wildlife. His story and captivating photography have earned him recognition from the BBC, including being featured on “Springwatch,” as well as coverage on Fox News USA and various Belgian, Dutch, and German TV channels.
See www.putmanandrobinsshop.com for details and follow one of our favourite Instagram accounts.


