Tributes have been paid to an 'inspirational' Suffolk naturalist – one of Britain's most revered ornithologists – who has died in an Ipswich hospice at the age of 76.

Dr David Pearson, of Lupin Close, Reydon, near Southwold, was one of the UK's foremost authorities on bird migration.

He pioneered studies of bird movements and populations on the Suffolk coast and was renowned for his ornithological work in Africa, especially Kenya. He also wrote and co-authored acclaimed ornithological books and scientific papers.

A former Leiston Grammar School head boy, he obtained a degree in Natural Sciences at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, and a Biochemistry PhD.

In 1956, he began a 60-year association with Dingle Bird Club, whose members ring birds at Dingle Marshes, near Dunwich.

In 1965, he became a lecturer in medical biochemistry at Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda, a post he held until 1968, after which he taught in Ipswich schools.

In 1970, he became a lecturer in biochemistry at Nairobi University, Kenya, returning to Suffolk in 1990.

While in Africa Dr Pearson co-founded a famed international bird-ringing project at Ngulia Lodge, in Kenya's Tsavo West National Park. Widely travelled and acclaimed for his meticulous approach to ornithology, Dr Pearson co-wrote the Birds of Kenya and Tanzania, was a major contributor to other books on African birds and co-wrote the 2010-published Reed and Bush Warblers with Suffolk ornithologists Peter Kennerley and Brian Small.

Suffolk naturalist Tony Howe, who knew Dr Pearson for many years, said he had an 'amazing depth of knowledge' that was passed on in a 'humble way.'

'He will be sorely missed,' added Mr Howe.

Author of The Birds of Suffolk, Steve Piotrowski said Dr Pearson was a 'great teacher' who was 'inspirational' to many young bird-ringers in Suffolk, Africa, and elsewhere – 'all would have gained from his vast experience. He is a massive loss to Suffolk ornithology.'

Dr Pearson died in St Elizabeth Hospice, Ipswich. He is survived by his widow, Maggie, whom he married in 1964, two daughters and five grandchildren.

His funeral takes place tomorrow (October 6) at St Margaret's Church, Reydon.