The first months of war

Collingwood seems to have spent most of his time dring the first months of the war at home in Westgate, perhaps wondering what he should do. His planned book on the birds of France was brought to an halt. Aged 34 and without military experience, an active fighting role was not an option. 

There are many sketches, especially of plants and birds, from this period. 

In November he decided to join the Kent Cyclist Battalion, a home defence force focused on coastal defence and observation.