Wildlife: birds and birdwatching: general interest Books

Book SynopsisThis extraordinary, poetic portrait of two peregrine falcons is one of the most beloved works of nature writing ever published.From fall to spring, J.A. Baker set out to track the daily comings and goings of a pair of peregrine falcons across the flat fen lands of eastern England. He followed the birds obsessively, observing them in the air and on the ground, in pursuit of their prey, making a kill, eating, and at rest, activities he describes with an extraordinary fusion of precision and poetry. And as he continued his mysterious private quest, his sense of human self slowly dissolved, to be replaced with the alien and implacable consciousness of a hawk. It is this extraordinary metamorphosis, magical and terrifying, that these beautifully written pages record.

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Book SynopsisWith stories of sighting rare birds ranging from an Eskimo Curlew to the cranes of Asia, one of America's foremost birders recalls a lifetime of birding adventures, including friendships with luminaries Roger Tory Peterson, Peter Matthiessen, and George Plimpton.Trade ReviewGeopolitically sensitive and savvy, and already looking ahead to habitat preservation, Mr. Emanuel was holistic from the very beginning…Mr. Emanuel's passion for birds was always placed within a larger philosophical framework. Yet even as he quotes one of the maxims at Delphi—'nothing in excess'—he can't help pushing to see, on a spring evening before a dinner party, 'just one more warbler.' Such love of discovery is the hum under the magical stories Mr. Emanuel tells. * Wall Street Journal *Table of Contents Prologue 1. Early Days 2. The Tropics 3. Freeport Christmas Count 4. The Bird of My Life 5. Beginnings 6. Meeting Curlew 7. The Triumph 8. Search for the Imperial Woodpecker 9. My Travels with King Penguin 10. The Mozart of Birding 11. New Territories 12. The Big Day 13. The Next Generation of Birders 14. End of the Earth 15. The Birds Of Heaven: Cranes, Asia, and Peter 16. Birding with the Bushes 17. Palace on Wheels 18. Birding on the Edge 19. Voyage on the Sea Cloud 20. My True Obsession 21. My World Epilogue Acknowledgments Suggested Readings Index

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Book SynopsisSouthern African Birdfinder: Guide to finding over 1 000 species from South Africa to Zambia, is the ideal companion to all local field guides to birds, and fills a gap in the market for a comprehensive guide to the region's top birding spots and to finding southern Africa's most desirable birds. After an introduction to birding in the southern African region, the authors identify and describe more than 200 top birding sites and associated birds across South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, the Indian Ocean islands and the little-documented, but increasingly popular areas of Angola, Mozambique, Zambia and Malawi. All sites are ranked into one of three categories of priority: essential (the region's best); excellent (top sites but expendable to a time-limited visitor) and local interest (ideal for those looking for new areas to explore). All sites include practical details of access, best times to visit, habitat diversity and general natural history. A guide to finding the region's top 100 birds and an annotated checklist conclude the book.

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Book SynopsisA husband and wife travel the globe to see all 18 penguin species in this “celebration of these delightful birds and a call for their conversation” that offers “joy, love, and hope for penguins and the world” (Dr. Jane Goodall). Every Penguin in the World tracks author-photographer Charles Bergman’s forays around the southern hemisphere—from the Galapagos to South Africa to the Antarctic—in his quest to see all 18 species of penguins in the world. The sections of the book are organized around themes of adventure, science and conservation, and pilgrimage—in which stories of each penguin species will be touched upon. This endearing and thought-provoking book beautifully combines narrative and photography to capture the plight and the experience of penguins worldwide. The author and his wife developed a passion after seeing their first penguin species and have since spent years traveling far and wide to see each variety of penguin in its natural habitat. Both a love letter and a call to action, Every Penguin in the World is a joyful ode to adventure, conservation, and the beautiful penguins that capture our hearts.“It's SO good! [...] Chuck Bergman’s writing, photography, and vulnerability is so kick-ass!”—Brené Brown, New York Times–bestselling author of Dare to LeadTrade ReviewWashington State Book Award FinalistSilver Nautilus Book Award Winner“Through powerful stories and beautiful photographs, Every Penguin in the World is a celebration of these delightful birds and a call for their conservation. This is a book of joy, love, and hope for penguins and the world.”—Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute & UN Messenger of Peace“It's SO good! [...] Chuck Bergman’s writing, photography, and vulnerability is so kick-ass!”—Brené Brown, podcast host and bestselling author of Dare to Lead“[A] visually impressive volume...Readers will enjoy Bergman’s enthusiastic recollections of his jaunts around the world and be astonished by his vivid photos.”—Publishers Weekly“With his new book Every Penguin in the World, Professor Charles Bergman has lovingly collated his 17-year obsession with these endlessly fascinating flightless birds.”—Outdoor Photographer“Having written books about nature and numerous wildlife-magazine articles, Bergman is practiced in the skills required for providing armchair naturalists with information and images that will spark their interest...the photographs are extraordinary and unforgettable.”—Booklist“Part travelog, part conservation, part philosophical musing, the book supplies ample, frequently adorable photos of every species, along with tales of wet, often cold, and occasionally uncomfortable adventures.”—Library Journal“Intensely personal, [Bergman's] quest is full of adventure, challenges, serious medical issues, danger, and descriptions of some of the most remote areas anywhere.”—American Birding Association“What a wonderful book. Bergman is an apt ambassador to the southern ocean’s most charismatic inhabitants, and his quest celebrates the spirit of rugged wilderness." —Noah Strycker, author of Birding Without Borders “Rarely have I read a bird book of such devoted science, spirit, and what Bergman calls ‘awakened wonder.’ Every Penguin in the Worldinspires the inner longing of our species for another with its majestic and tender photos and the intimate, often soaring prose of a seeker after that ‘penguin glow.’ Like Bergman, we are ‘reborn again and again in being with animals we love.’”—Brenda Peterson, author of Wolf Nation “Charles’ passion for the natural world’s most endearing inhabitants shines out from every page, both in his words and his images. The natural world needs passionate advocates like Charles, and images that capture your attention and make you want to make a difference. Charles has done just that.”—Sue Flood, wildlife photographer and author of Emperor: The Perfect Penguin

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Book SynopsisThe common kestrel is the bird of prey most of us are more familiar with. It has been an excellent study species to monitor environmental quality and to test evolutionary theories. This book will be an important reference for professional and amateur ornithologists, as well as undergraduate and graduate students.Trade Review'… rich in material, precise and excitingly written …' Nils Weinberg, Kritische Justiz'… a fine book for a wide audience, from the falcon enthusiast to the scientist.' Stephanie Michler, Ornithologischer BeobachterTable of Contents1. Systematics and evolution of kestrels; 2. Feeding ecology; 3. Habitat use; 4. Breeding density and nest site selection; 5. Colourations, sexual selection and mating behavior; 6. The reproductive cycle: from egg laying to offspring care; 7. Ecological physiology and immunology; 8. Environmental toxicology; 9. Movement ecology; 10. Conservation status and population dynamics.

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive and heavily illustrated guide to every species of British wildlife, this book is the definitive photographic reference guide for nature enthusiasts.Collins Complete Guide to British Wildlife allows everyone to identify the wildlife found in Britain and Ireland. The book is illustrated with beautiful photographs throughout, featuring the mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates you are most likely to see, as well as all the common plants.By only covering Britain and Ireland, fewer species are included than in many broader European guides, making it quicker and easier for the reader to accurately identify what they have found.This is the essential photographic guide to the wildlife of Britain and Ireland.Trade Review'Wonderfully descriptive photographs'BBC Wildlife

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Book SynopsisBeat the boredom and take time out from screens with this pocket-sized book packed with facts, photos and fantastic spots for hours of fun!Kids will have fun collecting points outdoors with more than 140 varieties of birds to find. From robins to house martins, buzzards to barn owls, they'll learn all about our feathered friends. And once they've scored 1000 points, super-spotters can claim their official i-SPY certificate and badge.With more than 30 i-SPY books to collect, there's something for everyone!For even more outdoor fun check out i-SPY Nature (ISBN 9780008386467).Trade Review“A fun, interactive way to encourage curious children to learn about the world around them.” – Parents In touch

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Book SynopsisOffers an insight into the world of twitching, and the personal account of some of the author's missions to add birds to his increasing British life-list. This book contains his own photographs, paintings and illustrations, as well as car crashes, stormy sea crossings, plane convoys and even a coastguard rescue, encountered during his bird-quest.Table of ContentsForeword by Richard Millington, Birding World. Introduction. Chapter 1: The Ancient Mariner. Chapter 2: Pilgrimage to Shetland. Chapter 3: Visiting Albert. Chapter 4: In the Company of Whales. Chapter 5: Southbound to Scilly. Chapter 6: October Thrushes. Chapter 7: Cape Clear. Chapter 8: The Rescue. Chapter 9: The Siege. Chapter 10: Day Trip to Dingle. Chapter 11: Fair Isle's Double. Chapter 12: All at Sea. Chapter 13: The Final Fling. Listings. Resources.

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Book SynopsisAmerican scientist and author Rachel Carson is said to have sparked the modern day environmental movement with the publication of Silent Spring in 1962. She made vivid the prospect of life without birdsong. But has her warning been heeded?Fifty years on, Conor Mark Jameson reflects on the growth of environmentalism since Silent Spring was published. His revealing and engaging tale plots milestone events in conservation, popular culture and political history in the British Isles and beyond, tracing a path through the half century since ''zero hour'', 1962. Around this he weaves his own observations and touching personal experiences, seeking to answer the question: what happened to the birds, and birdsong, and why does it matter?Trade ReviewJameson... has skillfully stiched together a narrative that reveals the highs and lows of conservation, and will, I am sure, convince many that the good fight is still worth it. * Birdwatch *Your book was riveting. It gave rise to several different emotions within me, Sadness/anger/despair/frustration/enthusiasm. Wonderfully written, interspersed with humour. Factual, it must have taken you forever to do the research. Cracking good stuff and needed to be said. All you need to do now is to get everyone who matters to read it. * John McGlashan, Farmer *A clear and concise historical overview of the failures and successes of the conservation movement since the 1960s; and it will rightly find a place on many a conservationist's bookshelf. * British Birds *If Nick Hornby loved nature, he might write a book like this. -- Martin Harper * RSPB Director of Conservation *An autobiographical strand gives a human aspect to the narrative, and there are a lot of fascinating details... the author succeeds, with a readable book which refreshed my memory. * BTO News *A trip down memory lane... a history lesson it certainly is, but stodgy it is not. Anecdotes and details bring the decades to life... It is very important that we have this book's clear record of what happened. * Devon Birds *A lively read... what makes Jameson’s work especially enjoyable is the personal slant... This is a book that needs to be read. * Birdwatching Magazine *Jameson uses Rachel Carson’s 1962 work Silent Spring as a focus for reflection on conservation and environmentalism in the decades since then. * Nature *Some lovely stories, and I really enjoyed dipping into the years and remembering. A delightful pot pourri. * Mark Avery *Lifted by the personal notes into an entertaining and easy read. * Birds *A tale worthy of Edgar Allan Poe at his hair-raising best... every conservationist, every naturalist and every environmentalist should read Silent Spring Revisited... it should become a standard school textbook if the planet is to be saved. * Kentish Times *If Nick Hornby loved nature, he might write a book like this. -- Martin Harper * RSPB Director of Conservation *Silent Spring Revisited is an enlightening read for anyone interested in wildlife conservation. It documents the history of environmentalism in Europe, but in so doing, reveals the heartbreak and fear, insight and hope, struggle and continued vigil of the many conservationists that uphold it as an ideal. The same could be said of Rachel Carson's book. I highly recommend reading both works of literature: begin with Carson's Silent Spring and follow with Jameson's Silent Spring Revisited to learn where we have gone in subsequent years. -- Stacia NovyTable of ContentsPrologue Introduction 1 The Sixties 2 The Seventies 3 The Eighties 4 The Nineties 5 The 21st Century Postscript Acknowledgements Further reading Index

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Book SynopsisInternationally celebrated nature writer Candace Savage presents the Corvid family— surprisingly bright, brassy, and colorful birds—in a remarkable collection of full-color, close-up photographs by some of the world’s best wildlife photographers. Birds have long been viewed as the archetypal featherbrains—beautiful but dumb. But according to naturalist Candace Savage, “bird brain,” as a pejorative expression, should be rendered obsolete by new research on the family of corvids: crows and their close relations.The ancients who regarded these remarkable birds as oracles, bringers of wisdom, or agents of vengeance were on the right track, for corvids appear to have powers of abstraction, memory, and creativity that put them on a par with many mammals, even higher primates. Bird Brains presents these bright, brassy, and surprisingly colorful birds in a remarkable collection of full-color, close-up photographs by some two dozen of the world’s best wildlife photographers.Savage’s lively, authoritative text describes the life and behavior of sixteen representative corvid species that inhabit North America and Europe. Drawing on recent research, she describes birds that recognize each other as individuals, call one another by “name,” remember and relocate thousands of hidden food caches, engage in true teamwork and purposeful play, and generally exhibit an extraordinary degree of sophistication.Trade Review"Savage’s hypnotic, intimate lens takes us so close to these birds we can count the feathers on their stomachs, peer down the huge red gullets of their chicks and marvel at their talky, squawky, wondrously communicative throats and beaks." —San Francisco Chronicle"With powerful photographic documentation naturalist Candace Savage examines the lives and behaviors of the highly intelligent corvid family." —Sierra"Here is an excellent gathering of intelligence, expert opinion and bird observations, with color photos creating a lavish backdrop.' —Bookwatch

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Book SynopsisSouth Africa’s Fynbos Biome, which spans the country’s Western and Eastern Cape provinces, is one of the richest floras in the world. In addition to its spectacular botanical diversity, the region is also famous for its remarkable variety of fauna, with some species occurring nowhere else – from the tiny Micro Frog to the brightly coloured Orange-breasted Sunbird and the large, strikingly marked Bontebok. The first of its kind, this concise field guide covers more than 400 species in four animal groups: mammals, birds, reptiles and frogs. The species accounts include key identification features and are paired with full-colour photographs and distribution maps. This guide encompasses popular tourist destinations such as the Cape Peninsula, the Kogelberg, the Cederberg, the Agulhas Plain, the West Coast and Baviaanskloof. Sales points: First guide to focus on Fynbos wildlife. Ideal for visitors, hikers, botanists, conservationists and anyone with an interest in the region’s natural history. Written by conservationists with extensive field experience. Supported by high-quality colour photographs.

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Book SynopsisBirdwatching in Britain has grown increasingly dependent on burning fossil fuels. Regularly driving long distances to birding hotspots and frequent flying to see exotic species are seen as perfectly normal. In the face of the climate crisis, however, a growing number of birders are reassessing the way they enjoy and study birds. In this timely book, 30 contributors—from young birdwatchers to professional ornithologists—explain why and how they are shifting to climate-friendlier approaches. Low-carbon birding, they argue, is a legitimate and valuable way of enjoying birds. Furthermore, in itself this can bring many joys, some of them unexpected. From first encounters with hawfinches to focusing in on birdsong, from the Kalahari to the Hebrides, the stories told here are not about heroic efforts to save the planet. They are simply accounts of everyday humanity in unprecedented times—ordinary people with doubts and concerns about how to live a decent life and act responsibly in a rapidly warming world. The authenticity of their voices is a testament to the moment of awakening to the climate crisis in British ornithology. Above all, Low-Carbon Birding is an urgent call for birders to leave a better legacy in the skies and across the living world.Trade ReviewThe title does not shy away from the harsh reality of climate change and the challenges faced; there is a sense of urgency with the topics addressed in this book. But there is not a sense of despair. Within its 31 chapters, there can be few people who won’t find something positive to inspire them in their birding – and their life in general. -- British Birds Vol. 115, Issue 12This is a welcome book, dealing, as it does, with an important issue for those of us who are birders...Things are certainly changing and I am confident that they will change ever more quickly, and this book is an important contribution to that change. -- Mark Avery, author and environmental campaignerThis book, for the most part gently, encourages us to look at all we do and find ways to reduce our carbon footprint, especially when it comes to indulging our avian pleasures. There is much here to enjoy, follow and learn from. -- Bo Beolens, Fatbirder...this is an excellent book - controversial, engaging and deserving of the widest possible readership. -- James Wright, RSPB Book Club reviewThe book is a collection of essays from a variety of writers, many of whom will be familiar to Birdwatch readers…they represent what people ‘on the ground’ are doing to lessen their own carbon footprint and by doing so give us all workable ideas for doing the same. -- Rebecca Armstrong, BirdwatchThe book makes an interesting and thought-provoking read -- John Miles, birdwatching.co.ukIf ever there was a book for our time, this is it. Javier Caletrío has called out the practice of fossil-fuelled, high mileage birding for what it is; a gross hypocrisy...The fact is, the birds we travel to see won’t be there unless we act now. Read this book, and then talk to your friends about the issues it so eloquently raises. -- Simon Bates, British Ecological Society...engaging, fast-paced and informative. Each of the chapters is absorbing in its own way, and some could almost provide synopses for new standalone titles in their own right. A word, too, for the simple but enchanting cover illustration by Gary Redford and for Pelagic Publishing's insistence on highest production standard for this 250-page hardback which, unusually, was printed in England. -- Amazon reviewerWith so many contributors sharing their real stories of transformation, Low-Carbon Birding is a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in reducing their carbon emissions. -- Jenny McKee, AudubonLow-Carbon Birding is a joy to read....take a few hours to read this amazing book and make 2023 the year of reinventing your way of birding. -- Vincent Stork, Dutch BirdingThere is no doubt that Low-Carbon Birding will have a substantial impact on the world of ornithology. -- British Trust for OrnithologyIt belongs on the bookshelf - or better yet, in the bicycle bag - of all birders, whether they are already low-carbon birders themselves or are just beginning to explore this perspective. -- Jans Daniels-Trautner, Der Falke...what does it mean to be a birder in the age of extinction? What is a life list worth in the face of a climate crisis? Can conservation and travel coincide? Enter Low-Carbon Birding, edited by Javier Caletrío. This collection of over 30 essays by a slate of concerned writers bluntly, yet elegantly, answers these questions and provides a blueprint for how birding can evolve to protect the species we have left. -- Rebecca Minardi, American Birding AssociationA timely reminder to us all... these essays show how increasing numbers of birders are shifting their approach to one that is low in carbon but high in reward. -- Mike Toms, BTO NewsThis book opens a new perspective for anyone concerned about their carbon footprint, who no longer want to be in a permanent race and who can thus combine physical exercise and passion! -- Philippe J. Dubois, OrnithosEcological economists can find rich inspiration from the captivating case of birdwatching, which can serve as a valuable basis for further studies of environmental values, degrowth, nature connectedness, and political ecology. Ultimately, this book can be seen as a degrowth manifesto that reveals problems with the increasing economisation of nature and the commodification of the birdwatching experience. -- Jakub Kronenberg, Ecological Economics… this is not a book about a dreary life of self- denial, but about a more sustainable refocusing of our engagement with and enjoyment of birds. -- Barry Gray * IBIS *The Valencian economist Javier Caletrio has edited a book of advice on ornithological tourism with a minimal carbon footprint. He recommends trains for longer distances and a bicycle for shorter ones. * Quercus, Spain *... a powerful and timely contribution to the debate on the need for all of us to consider our own carbon footprint, and what we can do to reduce it. -- Stephen MossTable of ContentsContributors Foreword Mike Clarke Preface Acknowledgements Introduction Javier Caletrío 1 Are We Addicted to High-Carbon Ornithology? Javier Caletrío 2 Questions of Travel, Climate and Responsibility Javier Caletrío 3 The Seven Cs of Patch Birding Nick Moran 4 Understanding Our Local Birds Angela Turner 5 Long-term Local Science Ben Sheldon 6 The Perpetual Patch Roger Emmens 7 The Long Rhythms of a Place José Ignacio Dies Jambrino 8 A Life of Local Birding Matt Phelps 9 The Joys of Patch Birding Maria Scullion 10 A Patch Year David Raffle 11 Hunting Hawfinch Steve Gale 12 In Praise of ‘Projects’ Mark Bannister 13 The Backyard Jungle Finley Hutchinson 14 My Patch and the Plastic Problem Siân Mercer 15 Eleventh-Hour Birding Simon Gillings 16 Listening Again to Birdsong Dave Langlois 17 The Sound of Summer Arjun Dutta 18 Birding in the Yorkshire Dales Steve Ward 19 TG42 Tim Allwood 20 Shrikes from the Bike Dave Langlois 21 The Best Kind of Golden Oriole Gavin Haig 22 From Angst to Tranquillity Jonathan Dean 23 Redrawing My Birding Horizons Sorrel Lyall 24 Island Holidays by Train Amy Robjohns 25 Lammergeyers from Leeds Jonnie Fisk 26 Bringing Birding Home Nick Acheson 27 Little Steps, Big Difference Steve Dudley 28 Climate and the Cuckoo Calendar Lowell Mills-Frater 29 Climate Change in the Kalahari Amanda Bourne 30 Unsettling Journeys Kieran Lawrence 31 Witness to Extinction Alexander Lees Afterword Notes Index

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Book SynopsisChanges in farmland management throughout the twentieth century, including agricultural intensification and increasing mechanisation, have resulted in the loss of habitat for many species. The Corncrake is one such species that has faced multiple challenges to its survival. Although it was once a common bird throughout northern Europe, the breeding areas of Corncrakes have been steadily reduced to a fraction of what they once were, and in many areas their continuation as a regularly breeding bird is in serious doubt. In addition, the behaviour of the Corncrake, nesting under the cover of tall grass and undertaking annual long-distance migrations, means that for most of the last hundred years, its detailed ecology has remained mysterious and little understood. Although there have been millions of words written about the Corncrake in scientific papers, until now there has been no full-length book that attempts to capture all the aspects of its ecology, and to present this information to non-specialists. As a result, until very recently, many important facts about its lifestyle and behaviour have not been widely known, even among ornithologists. Although scarcely seen in its natural habitat, the Corncrake is well-known in many rural areas due to its characteristic (and persistent) night-time calling, but new discoveries with the aid of acoustic science have proved surprising, and may offer new ways of improving the location, identification, and management options to protect and enable the population of this iconic species to recover, even to thrive in our countryside. A new appreciation of the requirements of this species and the ways in which our sensitive management of the whole landscape, both in its potential breeding areas across Europe and Asia and in the seasonal quarters in regions of Africa, offer new hope for the future of this fascinating bird.Trade Review'... this book is revelatory ...With more than 730 reference works cited, and fresh insights galore on the bird and its environment, this is a compellingly important work of reference. At its core is a penetrating cultural ecological study, which offers hope for this special bird and its landscape'. Extract from the Foreword by Professor Des Thompson

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Book SynopsisThomas Hardy notes the thrush’s ‘full-hearted evensong of joy illimited’, Gilbert White observes how swallows sweep through the air but swifts ‘dash round in circles’ and Rachel Carson watches sanderlings at the ocean’s edge, scurrying ‘across the beach like little ghosts’. From early times, we have been entranced by the bird life around us. This anthology brings together poetry and prose in celebration of birds, records their behaviour, flight, song and migration, the changes across the seasons and in different habitats – in woodland and pasture, on river, shoreline and at sea – and our own interaction with them. From India to America, from China to Rwanda, writers marvel at birds – the building of a long-tailed tit’s nest, the soaring eagle, the extraordinary feats of migration and the pleasures to be found in our own gardens. Including extracts by Geoffrey Chaucer, Dorothy Wordsworth, Richard Jefferies, Charles Darwin, James Joyce, John Keats, Charlotte Brontë, Emily Dickinson, Anton Chekhov, Kathleen Jamie, Jonathan Franzen and Barbara Kingsolver among many others, this rich anthology will be welcomed by bird-lovers, country ramblers and anyone who has taken comfort or joy in a bird in flight.Trade Review"For centuries, birds have inspired the abiding interest of writers, and it’s easy to see why. . . . Studying birds inevitably leads to interest in a hundred other vivid realities of the natural world. That relationship resonates throughout the pages of Birds: An Anthology. . . Birds is really about the birds of the English countryside and how these flying wonders and their surrounding landscape shape each other. Among the standouts are contributions from Geoffrey Chaucer, William Shakespeare, George Eliot and Daniel Defoe." -- Danny Heitman * Wall Street Journal *"This is exactly the sort of book to have nearby when you’re simply looking to relax and enjoy the power of the written word – as well as the sight of a well-wrought woodcut – to carry you away to somewhere peaceful and filled with birds.” * The Well-Read Naturalist *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 What is a bird? Definitions over time 4 A Birding Year: Spring 9 Inland: Field, Hedgerow, Pasture, Woodland 35 Bird Song & Songsters 59 A Birding Year: Summer 89 Birds in Flight 107 Hawks & Hawking 131 A Birding Year: Autumn 159 Birds & Man 179 Outland: River, Coast, Sea, Shore 211 A Birding Year: Winter 237 index of authors 259 index of birds 261 acknowledgements 264

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Book SynopsisCranes are enigmatic birds. Only very little is known about the behaviour of these graceful dancers. The renowned naturalist and crane expert Bernhard Wessling takes us on exciting and adventurous expeditions into their hidden world and gets to the bottom of the myths surrounding these birds of happiness. With the help of a specially developed bioacoustic method, Dr. Wessling studied Eurasian, Red-Crowned, Sandhill and Whooping Cranes, all in the wild. He has researched their intelligence, social dynamics and communication and engaged in their protection. Impressively illustrated and lively narrated, this book presents his findings on their individually unique lives and relationships, their ability to adapt and solve problems, and their emotions. His observations allow us to delve deeply into the cranes' way of life and consciousness, often demonstrating the surprising similarities between humans and animals. An amazing work about the spirit of discovery, humility and respect for nature in the tradition of Alexander von Humboldt.Cranes are among the most captivating birds on this planet. Dr. Wessling knows these birds, has accumulated a lifetime of observations on them, and has thought deeply about their abilities. In this book, he seeks to overturn old ideas about how these birds live, communicate, and think. His revelations surprise and delight and shed new light on an ancient avian family. Jennifer Ackerman, author of the New York Times bestseller The Genius of Birds and The Bird WayThe Call of the Cranes is a mesmerizing, vivid, lyrical and revelatory book. It truly is a spectacular book and a treasure! Sy Montgomery, naturalist and author of 31 books (incl. the New York Times bestseller The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness)In this book, Bernhard Wessling shares his fascinating stories about cranes through patient observations and thoughtful conclusions. George Archibald, Co-Founder of the International Crane Foundation, Senior ConservationistTable of ContentsPreface (the author‘s way to nature and a preview into the book)Chapter 1: How everything started (a coincidental encounter with cranes and with the new crane protection group; first observations)Chapter 2: Compact crane knowledge: myths and facts (a little bit of basic knowledge about cranes and about the role of cranes in mythology, in very short form)Chapter 3: Problem solutions, ballet courtship and fox alarm: how do cranes communicate with each other? (surprising observations about how cranes are solving problems and how they communicate)Chapter 4: Arrival in the nature preserve after return from wintering grounds: alone or in groups? (unique experiences how cranes return from wintering into the breeding area: nobody has ever observed or expected it to be like this)Chapter 5: Breeding season: a tragic romance (a brood destroyed, a female crane missing, her partner in mourning)Chapter 6: Ruff, a white-tailed eagle and other visitors to the nature preserve: crane guards‘ amazing experiences (completely different and interesting experiences during serving as crane guards for a whole week)Chapter 7: The school of life (crane „kids“ also have to study; one of the courses is learning to fly; the author describes the process in the flight school)Chapter 8: Tracking the cranes‘ language: they are calling and talk about their lives (the author gets the idea to record crane calls and analyze their voices; he develops a suitable method and so gets to know the cranes much deeper)Chapter 9: Worldwide endeavors: Asian and American cranes are calling me (the crane research project becomes international: the author is called to introduce his method worldwide)Chapter 10: Research adventures: overhear red-crowned cranes at minus 25 °C while guarded by armed border soldiers (exciting expeditions to the red-crowned cranes on Hokkaido island of Japan, and in the demilitarized zone within sight of the border to North Korea)Chapter 11: The adventure continues: visiting the wild whooping cranes (even more adventurous expeditions to North America for doing research on wild whooping cranes, the author is asked to contribute to a very complex species recovery project)Chapter 12: We are taking off: the hard way to the migration flight school (world première: young cranes raised in isolation learn to fly and to use the old migration route from the North to the South of the U.S., and become 100% wild)Chapter 13: What can we learn about intelligence, migratory behaviour, culture development, use of tools and self-awareness in cranes? (further research on the behaviour and abilities of cranes)Chapter 14: Can cranes think strategically? Other amazing observations (the cognitive performance of cranes is higher than previously thought; the author describes evidence of "episodic memory" and strategically planned problem solving)Chapter 15: Cranes are subjects. A plea for more modesty and respect for nature. (manifold practical consequences for nature and species conservation)In a detailed appendix, readers will find, among other things, a discussion of the emotions that cranes possess (or those that cranes probably do not possess), further observations of cranes, especially from abroad, a more detailed description of the nature reserves in and near Hamburg, where Wessling began his crane conservation work and research, and in a final chapter of the appendix new observations (Wessling recently started again with call recordings and their analysis) and practical advice for readers who would like to record and analyse bird calls themselves.In addition, there are 144 notes with references to further literature as well as links to information, further photos, videos and some typical call recordings he had made on the Internet.

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Book SynopsisArtist and illustrator Matt Sewell has been described as the Banksy of the bird world. He has illustrated for the Guardian and Barbour, amongst many others, and exhibited in London, Manchester, New York, Tokyo and Paris. Matt is an avid ornithologist and regular contributor to the Caught by The River website. He lives in Shrewsbury with his partner and two children.

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Book SynopsisA guide to the Birds of North America

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Book SynopsisA look into the life and times of falconry expert and acclaimed artist Frank L. Beebe. Hancock House is proud to present the fine and sensitive works of one of Canada''s most famous bird artists, Frank Beebe. Here is the story of how young Frank took up drawing while in school, how one teacher reached his inner imagination and sparked his lifelong desire to write. Here are the beginnings of his interest in biology and the chapters in his life where he rode the rails, made his living by drawing, by running a zoo, and by illustrating thousands of plants and animals for British Columbia''s provincial museum.

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Book SynopsisThe study of falcons from the Arctic to the Topics and the relationship and understanding gained from them through falconry has provided me with countless opportunities for learning and, occasionally, for adventure. These pages combine biological information about falcons of the Americas and our natural world with stories and events from my field notes and memory. Memories are interesting things. They are life''s mental streams and rivers which pool and flow, eventually becoming reservoirs of conscious and subconscious thought. Streams of events and experiences merge to become rivers of associated topics and places, creating lakes and, through time, oceans of memories, knowledge, and, possibly, wisdom. Like a stone tossed into a pool, an event or thought can cause ripples that bring memories of past experiences and emotions to the surface. For some of us, with age, boulders - not stones - are required. The streams and rivers have a few logjams and waterfalls, and sometimes the lakes have more suckers that trout. The real-life experiences reported here are primarily from my early years as a biologist and falconer. I wanted to fish those memories out first, before the water dries up or they are lost in tomorrows. The chapters and sections of the book are arranged geographically and topically, but not necessarily chronologically. After a brief introduction to the true falcons and my fascination with the, the reader travels - as the compass points - north to Greenland. Then moving south, that portion pertaining to falconry is focused in temperate western North America. Experiences with tropical falcons follow, with the final chapter on conservation of falcons, wildlife, and nature. There is also a section suggesting how people can make a positive difference. Finally, I provide more detailed information on the biology and ecology of falcons in a straight-forward manner as an appendix. The information is factual, and is based on my understanding and research. Some stories are humorous (I hope), others are of adventures (and misadventures) as I might recount them to my peers over a drink or around the camp fire. So pull up a chair or a log. A few names may be familiar, but most will not be. The names of people are not changed to protect the innocent, as there are none. We must all be guilty of something - if nothing else, possibly of caring about nature. I hope that in these pages the reader will gain some expanded appreciation of nature and a general understanding of falcons and why men and women have admired, studied, and enjoyed them for millennia. A further reward for the investment of time and thought will be any enjoyment this book bay bring to those who honor me by their reading.

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisAttending Alaska''s Birds, author King''s 60 year memoir, covers a dramatic period in Alaska''s history, a time when the people increased five-fold to over 600 thousand.King arrived in Alaska in 1949 at the age of 21. He describes life as a pilot/game warden, a refuge manager, a flyway biologist and an expert at enumerating birds while whizzing over them in a small plane. Over the past half century, James G. (Jim) King has probably been involved in more significant conservation actions than any other single Alaskan wildlife scientist. Many of the adventures he recounts in this volume are based on his participation in the selection of millions of acres of new wildlife refuges that came with the 1980 Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA). His years of flying waterfowl counts had made him familiar with the state''s most productive wildlife areas. That knowledge, supported by his field reports and notes, proved invaluable in the selection of land for wildlife refuges. Attending Alaska''s Birds is an exciting cornucopia of solid and fascinating biological and historical facts. It modestly describes, in first person, King''s Alaska career as a scientist whose life has been dedicated to the well-being of Alaska''s wildlife, especially its birds. King''s studies helped to determine that Alaska is home, at least during part of each year, to 100 million seabirds, 70 million shorebirds, and 12 million waterfowl. Jim didn''t count each bird, but he certainly counted his share in something like 6,000 hours of peering at them out of low flying airplanes, most of which he personally piloted. Attending Alaska''s Birds is not only an exciting and interesting read, but it is the story of an outstanding man of accomplishment, and it provides an intimate look at historical actions that brought great changes to Alaska during the last half of the 20th century. It will become an important part of the literature of Alaska.

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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