Wildlife: birds and birdwatching: general interest Books

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA revised and updated edition of the definitive site guide to this bird-rich Spanish region.Southern Iberia is in the top rank of European birding hotspots, and the fourth edition of this popular book, first published in 1994, continues to ensure that visitors can make the most of the region''s many attractions. The information on all sites has been brought right up-to-date, with revised maps and full updated site access details and species lists. Popular localities such as Doñana, Monfragüe and the Strait of Gibraltar get prominent treatment, but the reader is encouraged to wander further afield to visit other, less well-known but equally rewarding sites, including a number of additional localities that are new to this edition.This new edition is indispensable for all birders visiting this remarkable corner of Spain.Table of ContentsForeword Introduction to the Fourth Edition How to use this book Visiting southern and western Spain Landscape and climate Birds and other wildlife of southern and western Spain Watching seabirds and the migration of raptors and storks Andalucia Extremadura Appendices Further reading Site index Species index

Read more less

Book SynopsisRaptors are notoriously hard to identify, even if seen well. Contrary to expectation, it is actually easier to identify raptors in flight than perched, and it is fortunate that most raptors are usually seen in flight! This is the ultimate flight identification guide to Western Palearctic raptors. Covering over sixty species of raptors (over twenty more than the first edition) throughout Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, this deeply researched text reaches even further into the history of these amazing creatures. A stunning photographic guide of never-before-published images, this thorough text covers every plumage and age in breathtaking detail.Trade ReviewThis is a terrific identification guide that will be a must-have for raptor enthusiasts living or travelling in the Palearctic. * CHOICE Magazine *Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgements Introduction Flight Identification of raptors Plumage variations of raptors Viewing conditions Moult Factors affecting flight Previous experience Topography Glossary Hawk-watching in and around Europe by Keith L. Bildstein and Anna Sandor Migration ecology of raptors by Ian Newton Species Accounts References

Read more less

Book SynopsisPuffins, the breathtaking new book from internationally renowned photographer Kevin Morgans, celebrates the iconic Atlantic puffin and its place in the ecology of the British Isles. With their brightly coloured beaks, quirky personalities and comical movements, the ‘clowns of the sea’ are the best loved of all Britain’s seabirds. In a series of stunning images from his award-winning portfolio, Kevin Morgans documents their lives and their relationship with our windswept coast.Trade Review‘This is a portfolio of sheer excellence, and will be a very tough act to follow.’‘A beautiful, mesmerising portrait of the iconic puffin.’‘A visual delight from start to finish.’‘An intimate look into the lives of one of our planet’s most beloved bird species.’‘The ultimate book on our Atlantic Puffins.’ * Bird Watching Magazine *‘Stunning imagery of everyone’s favourite seabird by a photographer at the top of his game.’‘As a lifetime admirer of puffins, I found this to be a wonderful book that captures the true majesty of this incredible bird.’‘A true masterpiece. Kevin’s photography tells such an intimate story of the life of this charismatic bird.’‘A stunning collection that captures the character and charm of one of our most iconic seabirds.’

Read more less

Book SynopsisAuthoritative, lavishly illustrated, and beautifully designed, this photographic ID of British and Irish flora and fauna will captivate nature enthusiasts of every age and ability. From golden eagles in the Scottish Highlands to Portuguese Man ''o'' War jellyfish off the coast of Cornwall, the British Isles boasts an astonishing array of wildlife and habitat - and in this photographic tour, DK invites you to explore its extraordinary beauty, diversity, and wonder from the comfort of your living room.Habitat by habitat, British and Irish wildlife is revealed, and changes to the seasons are uncovered. Profiles of trees, flowers and plants, fungi, insects, reptiles, amphibians, mammals, invertebrates, fish, and birds provide key information on when and where to experience animals and plants in the flesh and at their best, while hundreds of spectacular photographs offer visual prompts to identification by showing them in their natural environments. An ou

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"A Birdwatcher's Yearbook Best Bird Book of the Year""Sixth Place for the 2022 BB/BTO Best Bird Book of the Year, British Birds and the British Trust for Ornithology""Ideal if you’ve ever wondered what wildlife you might find in the Patagonian steppe or what the difference between maquis and garrigue is."---Penny Sarchet, New Scientist Wild Wild Life"What a book this is – a Bible of the world’s habitats! The pictures are amazing, with a great variety of birds, mammals and habitats shown. . . . A brilliant guide for the traveller, though, and an enjoyable read."---John Miles, Birdwatching Magazine"Nature lovers are in for a treat if they’re looking for an easy to interpret, all-in-one ready reference that covers our entire planet’s major ecological habitats. . . . Anyone wanting a deeper understanding and appreciation of the habitats around them, be it from the confines of their narrowboat, or while travelling the world, would do well to invest in this book as a quick and reliable source of information."---Kevin Thomas, Towpath Talk"Hugely ambitious in scope, this guide aims to cover and describe all the main broad habitats of the world . . . . Such a compilation of information, mostly reflecting the experience of the authors, is a remarkable achievement."---Chris and Jude Gibson, British Naturalists Association"I found this book to be well laid out, clear, informative and interesting. I hadn’t previously considered habitats as something to really look at in close detail but this book has unexpectedly changed that and will likely make a surprisingly welcome addition to many other birders’ bookcases too."---Stephen Menzie, British Birds"[This] is a fun book, and it contains a wealth of information about habitats, wildlife, and biogeography. It’s certainly required reading for anyone embarking on a nature tour, and it also provides interesting perspective on the habitats on your home turf."---Stefan Woltmann, Association of Field Ornithologists"[An] astonishing book."---Donna Schulman, American Birding Association"Packed full of information that is concisely expressed. . . . A book that deserves a place in any birder’s reference library."---Raymond Jeffers, Neotropical Birding"Concise but informative text and easy-to-understand diagrams."---Stephen Menzie, British Birds and British Trust for Ornithology

Read more less

Book SynopsisRSPB Spotlight: Owls is packed with eye-catching, informative colour photos, and features succinct, detailed text written by a knowledgeable naturalist.Owls are charismatic and exceptionally well-loved characters in British wildlife, and have always held a special place in our folklore and legends. Their nocturnal habits mean few of us have been lucky enough to see them up close. In RSPB Spotlight: Owls Marianne Taylor introduces readers to every aspect of their lives including their physiology, biology and behaviour, as well as their history, and future in conservation in Britain and abroad.Five species of owl currently live in Britain - the Tawny, Barn, Little, Long-eared and Short-eared Owls - and each of them, as well as their relatives abroad, are introduced here in detail alongside top quality colour photographs and fascinating behavioural images, which will delight and inform the whole family.The book begins with a look at owls in generalTable of ContentsMeet the Owls Anatomy and Adaptations Behaviour Territory, Competition and Migration Diet and Hunting Pairing and Breeding Life and Death Owl Conservation Owls in Culture Glossary Further Reading and Resources Acknowledgements Image Credits Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe sixth instalment of the popular Birder Murder series A trail of a murder leads Domenic Jejeune across a vast continent… Newly estranged from his girlfriend, Lindy Hey, Inspector Domenic Jejeune returns to Southern Ontario, where he receives news that his brother, Damian, has gone missing in Wood Buffalo National Park while conducting research on Whooping Cranes. Domenic immediately heads out to try to find him. Back in the U.K., Jejeune's plan to protect Lindy has failed, and she has been kidnapped by his old foe, Ray Hayes. Jejeune's trusty sergeant, Danny Maik, tracks down Lindy, but there is far more to the situation than he anticipated. With Lindy in imminent danger, Maik is forced into a desperate rescue attempt. Will either of them survive? And if so, can they find their way back to each other?Trade Review'Irresistible...a marvelous series of books.' * 10,000 Birds blog *'Burrows has the ability to make the North Norfolk coast come alive in a way that few other authors have managed.' * The Bookbag *Praise for the Birder Murder Mysteries: 'A murder plot built around birdwatching doesn’t, at first, seem plausible or even possible. But Burrows pulls it off... Riveting from first page to final line.' Globe and Mail 'A suspenseful and well-crafted mystery perfect for the beach.’ Morning Star 'A neatly-constructed and well-told police procedural. If you like north Norfolk you'll feel as though you're there. If you like birds you'll feel as though you're in heaven.' The Bookbag 'Skillfully written, full of moral ambiguities and artful puzzles, with a spine-tingling final sentence.' Kirkus starred review

Read more less

Book SynopsisRSPB Spotlight: Ducks and Geese is packed with eye-catching, informative colour photos, and features succinct, detailed text written by a knowledgeable naturalist.This is a detailed ''biography'' of ducks and geese that breed in or regularly visit the UK covering 30 species in all. It will include chapters on the evolution of ducks and geese, their place in the natural world, their anatomy and physiology, various feeding methods, spectacular courtship displays and diverse breeding behaviour. Marianne Taylor reveals their often epic migrations and examine their social interactions with their own and other species, including their unusual readiness to hybridise. She also details their relationships with humankind over the centuries, including their presence in folklore and literature and their role in our lives as both prey and pets.She explores their presence as feral and sometimes invasive species outside their natural ranges, and their current status within their nativeTable of ContentsMeet the Ducks and Geese Evolution and Adaptation Breeding Diet and Feeding Social Life Migration Threats and Conservation Wildfowl and People Watching Ducks and Geese Glossary Further Reading and Resources Acknowledgements Image Credits Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisTHE BESTSELLING BIRDWATCHING CLASSIC - 20TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION'A delightful ode to the wild world outside the kitchen window - leaves you with the warm feeling that a shared love conquers all.' The Daily Telegraph'A witty, perceptive book; thoughtful, instructive and full of simple wisdom.' The Daily MailLook out the window. See a bird. Enjoy it. CONGRATULATIONS! You are now a bad birdwatcher.Anyone who has ever gazed up at the sky or stared out of the window knows something about birds. In this fun, eye-opening and inspiring book, award-winning nature writer Simon Barnes paints a riveting picture of how birdwatching has framed his life and can help us all to a better understanding of our place on this planet. How to be a Bad Birdwatcher shows why birdwatching is not the preserve of twitchers, but one of the simplest, cheapest and most rewarding pastimes around.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book describes the natural and cultural history of an iconic and unusual woodpecker – a species that nests in tree cavities but which forages mostly on the ground. The Green Woodpecker, known in folk English as the Yaffle, is afforded comprehensive coverage in this work, with information on its origins, taxonomy, anatomy, appearance, moult, calls, distribution, conservation status, habitats, movements, breeding, diet and relationships with other wildlife and humans all presented. The text is richly illustrated throughout with quality photographs as well as sound spectrograms. Many eye-opening observations of Green Woodpecker behaviour are detailed. This all-encompassing and engaging account has been written for a wide audience, whether professional ornithologist, citizen scientist, amateur birder, woodpecker aficionado or simply someone who wishes to learn more about this curious and remarkable bird.Trade ReviewThe Green Woodpecker is extensively illustrated with captivating photographs and artwork which support Gorman’s narrative which is always authoritative, entertaining and fast-paced. -- James Wright, The Wryneck blogIf you want to know what we currently know about this species then this, undoubtedly, is the book for you. -- Mark Avery, author and environmental campaignerThis book is a must have for anyone with an interest in this species or with woodpeckers in general. -- Ian Paulsen, The Birdbooker ReportThis is a well-written book that brings together a wealth of information. Nobody has done more on a European scale to promote woodpecker issues than Gerard Gorman. -- Keith Betton, British BirdsWritten with a blend of scientific rigour and a narrative style, The Green Woodpecker invites both nature enthusiasts and curious minds to embark on a journey that deeps down into the species taxonomy, behaviours and conservation by highlighting the links between the bird and its surroundings. -- Letizia Campioni, AvocettaTable of ContentsAbout the author Acknowledgements Preface 1. Origins and Taxonomy 2. Anatomy and Morphology 3. Description and Identification 4. Moult, Ageing and Sexing 5. Relatives 6. Communication 7. Distribution, Population and Trends 8. Challenges and Conservation 9. Habitats 10. Behaviour 11. Movements and Flight 12. Breeding 13. Cavities 14. Tracks and Signs 15. Foraging and Food 16. Relationships 17. Folklore, Mythology and Symbolism References Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn essential field guide companion covering species pairs or groups that are difficult to identify. This book covers difficult identification issues by looking at tricky species pairs or groups of birds, and comparing and contrasting their respective features. Designed as a field companion, it supplements the standard field guides and provides much additional information. As well as detailed texts, the books include extensive illustrations of all relevant ages and plummages of the species concerned.Trade Review...a godsend to anyone wanting to tell a bar-tailed from a black-tailed godwit, a firecrest from a goldcrest or a greenfinch from a siskin. * Daily Express *...a helpful new book. ...It is carefully detailed but it is also agreeably written. * The Times *It does exactly as it says on the cover...a fine book * Sunday Express *...this is an indispensable addition to your library. * Scottish Birds *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Introduction How to Use this Book Short Cuts to Identification Glossary Topographical Tips Moult and Ageing Species (22-375) General bibliography Specific bibliography Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe East Atlantic Flyway es una espectacular ruta migratoria para millones de aves limícolas que recorre 16.000 kilómetros, desde las áreas de reproducción en el Ártico hasta destinos de invernada en Europa y África.Acompañando a intrépidos ornitólogos, exploramos los secretos de las migraciones de las aves limícolas, adentrándonos en la biología de las aves, paisajes costeros y la naturaleza salvaje. Sus historias revelan la creación de un ?collar de perlas? ? áreas protegidas a lo largo de la ruta migratoria, resultado de esfuerzos colaborativos.A pesar de amenazas como el cambio climático, estos relatos aportan esperanza y optimismo para el futuro, ya que resaltan la importancia de los esfuerzos de conservación y la comprensión de la biología y el comportamiento de las aves.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBig Cat Phonics for Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised has been developed in collaboration with Wandle Learning Trust and Little Sutton Primary School. It comprises classroom resources to support the SSP programme and a range of phonic readers that together provide a consistent and highly effective approach to teaching phonics.Discover the amazing habits of the arctic tern in this non fiction book. See how far they migrate!

Read more less

Book SynopsisA fascinating compendium showcasing the extraordinary wonders of the birds that share our world through exquisite ornithological illustrations, prints and drawings. We share the Earth with more than 10,000 species of birds and we have always been enchanted by them. Here, over 60 birds, organized thematically into eight sections, cover all aspects of our relationship with birds. Songbirds' celebrates the greatest bird virtuosi, such as the Nightingale, while Birds of Prey' include majestic hunters such as the Harpy Eagle, which catches prey as large as monkeys and sloths. Feathered Travellers' describes astounding journeys made by birds even some tiny Hummingbirds migrate huge distances. The Love Life of Birds' can rival any soap opera and involves the most brilliant displays, notably the Birds of Paradise, with their extravagant feathers and dances. Avian Cities' explores species such as the Flamingo that live in spectacular large colonies. Useful to Us' examines the ways we find birds of value, such as the Turkey, but also the Canary. Threatened and Extinct' describes some no longer living and others that seem on the brink. Birds have also had great mystical significance, both for good and evil, and Revered and Adored' considers such species as the Sacred Ibis, believed by the ancient Egyptians to represent the god Thoth. For anyone interested in the natural world and the wonderful variety of birds around us, this beautifully illustrated book is a visual treat that will inspire, inform and delight.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"Anyone lucky enough to be visiting this region of Australia should have a copy of the book."--Frederic H. Brock, Wildlife ActivistTable of Contents*Frontmatter, pg. 1*Contents, pg. 3*About this book, pg. 7*How to use this book, pg. 8*Maps of the Top End, pg. 10*Geography and geology of the Top End, pg. 12*Weather and seasons of the Top End, pg. 14*Habitats of the Top End, pg. 16*How to watch wildlife, pg. 20*Where to find wildlife, pg. 22*Birds of Wetlands and Beaches, pg. 24*Raptors: Hawks, Eagles and Falcons, pg. 80*Birds of the Forest: Mangroves and Monsoon Forests, pg. 94*Birds of Open Areas Woodlands and Grasslands, pg. 120*Mammals, pg. 196*Reptiles and Amphibians, pg. 220*Further reading, pg. 264*Acknowledgements, pg. 264*Photo credits, pg. 265*Index, pg. 267

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA fully illustrated guide to the 60 best places to watch birds around London, by one of London's most experienced birders, for both the keen birdwatcher and those wanting ideas for a day or afternoon out among nature, published in association with the London Wildlife Trust.Trade Review'I honestly cannot push this enough - this is a stunning book. Beautiful pictures.' BBC Radio London; 'A great guide for the amateur birder, an ornithological tour of the capital's woodlands, wetlands, parks and post-industrial backwaters.' -Wild London magazine; 'A lovely, almost pocket-sized, guide to the best birding sites in the London area that will encourage more of us to see beyond our city into the woods, wetlands and grasslands where a whole new world of birdwatching awaits us. This book is clearly aimed at the general birdwatcher and those with an interest in natural history and will, I am sure, encourage more Londoners to look beyond the tower blocks and street vendors to see something of the birdlife that shares our great city. The author s infectious enthusiasm for birds and birdwatching comes through every page.' Surfbirds.com

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn authoritative guide to birds of the UK Overseas Territories.The UK Overseas Territories (UKOTs) are scattered across the globe. Most are small islands or island complexes, occurring from the Caribbean to the furthest reaches of the South Atlantic, via the Indian and Pacific Oceans. In terms of global biodiversity, these territories are remarkably significant. Among landscapes that range from coral atolls, through mangroves and dry forests to the ice sheets of Antarctica, the UKOTs support no fewer than 45 species of birds currently considered to be globally threatened. They are also home to a third of all the world's breeding albatrosses, and nine of the world's 17 species of penguin. In a rapidly changing world, the UKOTs symbolise global crises in climate and biodiversity. Threats faced by their wildlife range from mortality of seabirds at sea through industrial fisheries, and on land as a result of introduced ground predators, to the utter devastation of hurricanes in the

Read more less

Book SynopsisStephen Moss delights once more - lyrical and informative by turns, he conjures - with breathless eloquence - another feathered beauty of our skies.' Benedict Allen'An engrossing compilation of ornithological tidbits, cultural anecdotes, literary quotes and well chosen historical artwork' BBC Wildlife, *Books of the Year*Uncover the life of starlings through this beautiful guide to these majestic and gregarious birds from the bestselling author of The Owl, The Robin, The Wren, and The Swan. Even with its exquisite iridescent plumage and magical gift to mimic both human and natural sounds, this common garden bird can often be overlooked. But as they unite in their thousands to display their unique ability to perform dazzling aerial manoeuvres known as murmurations, starlings are nothing short of breathtaking. This is the captivating story of how starlings have shaped our world, from influencing agriculture and inspiring musicians such as Mozart and writers such as Shakespeare, to their impact as an invasive species in North America, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. With beautiful illustrations throughout, and an expert guide to the most magnificent murmurations in the UK, this eye-opening biography reveals the hidden secrets of one of our most talented and luminous birds.

Read more less

Book Synopsis"Most of us can see, but not everyone looks. Most of us can hear, but not everyone listens. This book will help you do both. And, above all, it will tell you how to enjoy." Bill Oddie"He'll tune your ears to winter's lonely voices - robins, wrens, long-tailed tits - before preparing you for the exultant sounds of spring." The TimesLearning to identify birdsong is not just a way to become a better bird-spotter. It is tuning in: a way of hearing the soundtrack of Planet Earth... Why do birds sing? What are they trying to say?Birdsong is not just about natural history. It is also about our history. We got melody from birds as we got rhythm from the womb. This vital book, with an accompanying podcast available online, takes you from winter into deepest spring, teaching you how to recognise song after song as the chorus swells. Beginning with the thin, soft song of the robin and ending with the life-affirming melody of nightingales. Along the way, you will learn the science of birdsong the difference between song and call, the physiology of songbirds, what birdsong tells us about evolution, and indeed the very beginnings of life itself. The aim is to give you a flying start in birdsong so that, after reading this book, you'll be listening to order, not chaos, to Bach, not white noise. You will be more aware of the wild world, and better able to understand it.Accompanying podcast link provided in the bookTrade ReviewMost of us can see, but not everyone looks. Most of us can hear, but not everyone listens. This book will help you do both. And, above all, it will tell you how to enjoy.A gem... All day, I've been fighting the urge to drop everything so I can devour this eloquent book in one siting... exquisite. * The Guardian *He'll tune your ears to winter's lonely voices - robins, wrens, long-tailed tits - before preparing you for the exultant sounds of spring. * The Times *Become a bird listener, says Barnes, and tune in to the special podcast of airborne song that comes free with this book, and you will better understand the lives of birds and identify the wild notes that first inspired human music. A delight.A beguiling love song to our feathered friends. Brilliant. * Glasgow Herald *An excellent book from the irrepressible Simon Barnes... a must-buy for any birdwatcher. * The Times *Do you struggle with identifying birds by song? Yes? Good! Then there's a delightful journey, just waiting for you thanks to this book... This spring should be a special one for you. * Birds Magazine *He'll tune your ears to winter's lonely voices - robins, wrens, long-tailed tits - before preparing you for the exultant sounds of spring. * The Times *This is very good indeed. Barnes's approach is humorous, chatty and pragmatic... He can't do the listening for you, but boy, does he help you sharpen your ears. * Irish Times *Table of ContentsFirst Winter 1 Muzak to my ears 3 Songs of life and death 5 Robin 8 Double figures 12 A place of my own 16 Wren 19 Talking birds 22 Pee-oo! 26 How to see round corners 28 Dunnock 31 Time and space 33 Birdsong to save your life 37 Long-tailed tit 40 First Spring 45 How to make spring last longer 47 Great tit 50 Keeping it simple 52 Song thrush 54 Get a load of that repertoire 58 Chaffinch 62 Saying your own name 64 Blue tit 67 Great spotted woodpecker 69 How we stole the music 72 Blackbird 76 When the singing began 80 Greenfinch 84 How I invented music 86 Skylark 89 A breath of fresh air 92 Blithe spirit 94 Chiffchaff 99 Crisis relocation 102 Cuckoo 106 Last cuckoo? 109 Swallow 111 Vertebrate chauvinism 114 Pigeons 117 Why warblers 122 Blackcap 126 Demise of the willow wren 129 Willow warbler 133 First Year Birdlistening 137 Turn on, tune in 139 Seagulls 142 Herring gull 144 Swift 147 And now your free gift 150 Seaside waders 154 Hello 158 Crows 161 Bleeding obvious 165 Two more crows 169 World Cup birding 172 Freshwater birds 175 But does it really count? 178 Geese 183 Song of the butterfly 186 Birds of prey 188 Silence 191 Owls 195 Winter thrushes 199 Second Spring 203 Birds and Venice 205 Mistle thrush 209 Starling 212 Learning curve 215 Mozart's starling 218 Goldcrest 221 Green woodpecker 223 Portrait of the artist 225 Goldfinch 231 Yellowhammer 234 The rhythmician 236 Nuthatch 239 Coal tit 241 Rhythm section 243 Pied wagtail 246 Meadow pipit 248 Peasant and phartridge 250 Be happy! 252 House martin 254 Garden warbler 256 Whitethroat 258 Nightingale 260 Heartache 265 Sweet music 270

Read more less

Book SynopsisA BBC Radio 4 Book of the WeekLonglisted for the Wainwright Golden Beer Book Prize 2018A Guardian Book of the Year 2018The owl has captivated the human imagination for millennia; as a predator, messenger, emblem of wisdom or portent of doom. Owl Sense tells a new story. On 'owl walks' with her teenage son, Benji, Miriam Darlington begins a quest to identify every European species of this elusive bird. From Britain she travels to Spain, France, Serbia and Finland, and to the frosted borders of the Arctic. Along the way, however, Benji succumbs to a mysterious and disabling illness, and Miriam's endeavour soon becomes entangled with the search for his cure. Bringing the strangeness and magnificence of owls to life, Owl Sense is a book about wildness in nature but also in the unpredictable course of our human lives.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisCall of the Kingfisher is the enchanting debut from composer and wildlife recordist, Nick Penny. This love letter to a short stretch of Northamptonshire's River Nene celebrates all the wild things that live there, especially the kingfishers. Uniquely, it comes with bonus audio content to complement the text, accessed via QR codes. Nick has walked beside the river at Oundle for four decades. But for a whole year he gave the waterway all the time it asked for. The more attention he gave it, the more he saw the kingfishers and heard their high whistling calls. Set in a lovely but little-known part of England, Call of the Kingfisher relates a year by the river, the author's experiences there and the different people he meets. Other strands are woven around the elusive feathered protagonist: explorations of local history and landscape, from Roman and Bronze Age sites to watermills and centuries-old stone churches; visits at different times and to different places in the valley; homages to naturalists who lived nearby; forest dawns and dusks listening to the precious song of nightingales. But the background tapestry is the sights and sounds, and greens and browns, of the riverbank, shot through with the blue and orange threads of a kingfisher's glowing feathers. As a composer and wildlife recordist, Nick has a deep interest in sounds in the natural environment. He both uses the local landscape and wildlife sounds as inspiration, and brings fresh insights into the sounds of the countryside. The book includes access to a number of high-quality birdsong recordings made alongside the River Nene - audio soundbites of nature's riches, from kingfishers and nightingales to owls and cuckoos. This is a book about the things that can be seen and heard when we approach nature with patience and curiosity. It celebrates people who have used that focus to help preserve wildlife and pass on their knowledge to future generations. Above all, Call of the Kingfisher serves as a call to appreciate what we've got, wherever we are, and to use our ears as much as our eyes when we experience the natural world.Trade Review"All writers want the reader to see through their eyes, but few succeed in making them hear through their ears as successfully as Nick Penny. Very special." Country Life "From the glimpses of kingfishers in a frosty January to the sweet-scented honeysuckle and nightingale song in early June, the book beautifully illustrates the joy of observing nature with patience. Complete with a suite of high-quality wildlife audio recordings, Call of the Kingfisher is a glorious homage to wildlife." CPRE website "Penny's detailed observations and philosophical and historical musings fill this gentle book which seems to walk at its own pace through the gradually changing seasons" - Birdwatch Magazine "[A] wonderful book. [Penny] brings his knowledge as a musician to this book too, and the sounds that he has recorded of specific birds and some of the dawn and evening choruses that he heard whilst researching this book. You can follow the link in the book and I thought this gave an excellent extra dimension" Paul Cheney, Halfman, Halfbook blog "An utterly delightful, uplifting invitation to escape to a wonderful world of nature! Highly Recommended!" Escapelearncreate.co.uk "Call of the Kingfisher is a beautiful book. he delights in what can be seen and heard when we approach nature with patience and curiosity." Julia Thorley, NN Journal "Nick writes with honesty, a deep respect of and connection to his patch of the natural world... I highly recommend this book and especially suggest that readers explore the audio tracks listed within the chapters." P Stevens, Amazon reviewTable of ContentsChapter 1 January Chapter 2 February Chapter 3 March Chapter 4 April Chapter 5 May Chapter 6 June Chapter 7 July Chapter 8 August Chapter 9 September Chapter 10 October Chapter 11 November Chapter 12 December

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis"With 240 pages filled with incredible art, the bird lover will enjoy flipping through and taking in the vast distinctions between species in the bird kingdom." — Prevention Australian artist Greg Oakley has had a lifelong fascination with birds and bird art, and began photographing birds 20 years ago, progressing from traditional film to digital in the early 2000s. In the past six years, he has worked on perfecting the difficult and exacting area of bird photography known as “setup”, where perches and backgrounds are meticulously crafted and designed, and lighting strictly controlled. There are sometimes hundreds of individual photographs taken and then digitally combined to create a single work. With a combination of photographic skill, field craft, meticulousness and incredible patience, he removes the subject from its natural environment and context, re-imagining it in a field-guide style reminiscent of the historic bird artists. Oakley's photographs represent a reconstructed contemporary vision of important historic artists such as Gould and Audubon. This collection of stunning artwork is a testament to the natural beauty of birds, highlighting the precarious existence of many endangered species and a reminder of the beauty we could lose. By isolating the subject into an unblemished reality, each species’ character and beauty is celebrated with empathy and understanding. The resulting images provide both a rare glimpse in stunning detail of these delicate creatures, and a poignant reminder of the tragic, impending loss of many of them due to habitat loss and climate change.Trade Review"With 240 pages filled with incredible art, the bird lover will enjoy flipping through and taking in the vast distinctions between species in the bird kingdom." - PreventionTable of ContentsForeword Homage to the Bird Coraciiformes Bucerotiformes Accipitriformes Passeriformes Psittaciformes Columbiformes Cuculiformes Acknowledgements

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisNo need to travel the globe to spot iconic wildlife it's here on our doorstep in the UK and Steve Wright, keen amateur naturalist, explores Britain on various short holidays, with his wildlife wish-list for each trip. His enjoyable wildlife encounters are a call to book into B&Bs and follow his example on a series of fun British wildlife safaris.

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Delightful . . . an original look at the literature inspired by Britain''s birdlife'' the Guardian, Best Nature Books of 2017''[The] pages light up with feathered magic'' Evening StandardWhen Alex Preston was 15, he stopped being a birdwatcher. Adolescence and the scorn of his peers made him put away his binoculars, leave behind the nature reserves and the quiet companionship of his fellow birders. His love of birds didn''t disappear though. Rather, it went underground, and he began birdwatching in the books that he read, creating his own personal anthology of nature writing that brought the birds of his childhood back to brilliant life. Looking for moments ''when heart and bird are one'', Preston weaves the very best writing about birds into a personal narrative that is as much about the joy of reading and writing as it is about the thrill of wildlife. Beautifully illustrated and illuminated by the celebrated graphic artist NeilTrade Review As Kingfishers Catch Fire is a memoir/gallimaufry of ornithological obsession by Alex Preston. He watches birds in the sky and on the page darting between myths, stories and memoir like a swift. The characterful illustrations by Neil Gower add a whole new dimension to this gorgeous book. * Damian Barr, Guardian Best Books of 2017 *Alex Preston, better known for his novels, joined forces with artist Neil Gower to produce the delightful As Kingfishers Catch Fire, an original look at the literature inspired by Britain's birdlife. * Guardian Best Nature Books of 2017 *Beautifully illustrated . . . Focusing on birds from snow geese to swallows, Preston produces an impressive account of birds both in nature and literature. * The Observer *

Read more less

Book SynopsisExplore the wonders of the avian world with this comprehensive and fully illustrated guide to every aspect of bird life. Written by highly regarded ornithologist and natural history expert Jonathan Elphick, and with special photography from many top bird photographers, it is essential reading for all ornithologists and bird watchers.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe definitive guide to the rich avifauna of Trinidad and TobagoThe tropical islands of Trinidad and Tobago enjoy a rich diversity of bird species, including visitors from the nearby mainland and others traversing the migratory flyway to and from North America. The resident landbirds include several endemic races, and two full species, including one of the true stars of Caribbean birding, the endangered Trinidad Piping Guan. This comprehensive field guide covers every species known to occur on the islands. Concise descriptions of every species highlighting plumage variation and distinctions from similar species are accompanied by 115 superb colour plates, illustrating all the relevant plumages of more than 480 species. Also included is up-to-date information on where to watch birds in Trinidad and Tobago, as well as an overview of the geography, climate and habitats of the islands. Portable and pocket-friendly yet authoritative and comprehensive, this field guide is essential for birders visiting or living on these magical Caribbean islands.Table of ContentsIntroduction Acknowledgements Geography Climate Habitats Taxonomy and Nomenclature Bird Identification How to Use This Book Documenting and Reporting Bird Sightings Ethics Security Where to Watch Birds in Trinidad and Tobago Plates And Species Accounts Official Checklist Of The Birds Of Trinidad And Tobago Trinidad & Tobago Birds Status And Distribution Committee Index

Read more less

Book Synopsis'The most glorious cornucopia celebrating our enduring love affair with birds - an uplifting and eye opening tribute to the way they enrich our lives.' - Alan Titchmarsh MBE, British TV presenter, broadcaster, and gardener 'Wonderfully illustrated.' - Wall Street Journal Let your imagination take flight and celebrate the beauty and diversity of birds throughout art, science, history, and culture This visually stunning survey of birds, chronicling their scientific and popular appeal throughout the ages and around the world, showcases the remarkable diversity of species in the avian kingdom, from tiny hummingbirds to ostriches taller than humans, and icebound penguins to tropical macaws. With its content curated alongside an international panel of ornithologists, art historians, wildlife photographers, conservationists, and curators, this extraordinary book includes illustrations and artwork of all styles, with works by a diverse and often surprising range of creators from many different backgrounds, including: John James Audubon; Robert Clark; Mark Dion; Charley Harper; Barbara Kruger; Edward Lear; Ustad Mansur; John Ruskin; Joel Sartore; Sarah Stone; and Charles Frederick Tunnicliffe. Arranged in thoughtfully paired juxtapositions, it reveals how artists, illustrators, ornithologists, and photographers - from ancient Egypt to the present - have captured the spirit, likeness, character, and symbolism of birds. Including Tweety pie paired with the Twitter bird; birds as 300-foot desert carvings or 2-inch-tall ivory statuettes; bird bones, bird bank notes, sculptures and birds shaped as beds, the book's three hundred visually stunning entries span four thousand years of fine art, photography, ornithological drawings, popular culture, and scientific discovery from all corners of the globe to create the ultimate celebration of the winged world. Advisory panel: Dawn Balmer, Tim Birkhead FRS, Dr Alexander Bond, Gordon Campbell, Dr Sylke Frahnert, Joëlle Garcia, Elizabeth Hammer, David Lindo aka The Urban Birder, Jen Lobo, Fred G. Meijer, Sabine Meyer, Penny Olsen, Oliver Rampley, Katrina van Grouw and Dr Lisanne Wepler Additional texts: Giovanni Aloi, Sara Bader, Dr Alex Bond, Dr Michael Brooke, Tim Cooke, Clare Coulson, Nick Crumpton, Louisa Elderton, Diane Fortenberry, Carolyn Fry, Elizabeth Hammer, David Lindo, Fred G. Meijer, David B Miller, Rebecca Morrill, Penny Olsen, Michele Robecchi, Gill Saunders, James Smith, David Trigg, Katrina van Grouw, Martin Walters, Isabella Wing-Davey and Dr Lisanne WeplerTrade Review'A sumptuous collection of paintings, jewelry, photography, scientific texts, and other objects celebrating avian life that spans nearly 5,000 years of human history.' – Audubon 'Documents the importance of the avian world to all of human society.' – New York Times 'A contemplative study of some of the planet's most beautiful creatures, with packaging as vibrant and whimsical as the species themselves.' – Forbes 'An extensive celebration of feathered creatures across thousands of years.' – Colossal 'Extensive ... plays special emphasis on the symbolic nature of our winged friends.' – HYPEBEAST 'Stunning.' – Bird Watching 'A fantastically well-curated collection of bird imagery in art and culture.' – NPR 'An engaging and visually stunning visit to the avian kingdom.' – Robb Report 'Wonderfully illustrated ... takes us on an unpredictable journey throughout the world.' – Wall Street Journal 'This is the perfect coffee table book for when it's so cold and wet that you've decided to postpone your birdwatching session.' – BTO (British Trust for Ornithology)'The most glorious cornucopia celebrating our enduring love affair with birds - an uplifting and eye-opening tribute to the way they enrich our lives.' – Alan Titchmarsh MBE , English TV presenter, broadcaster and gardener'A lavish and fascinating collection of great artwork featuring birds, from the earliest times to today. Compelling and absolutely beautiful - a visual feast.' – Stephen Moss , naturalist, author and original producer of BAFTA award-winning series 'Springwatch'

Read more less

Book SynopsisSardinia is in the middle of the western Mediterranean between Europe and Africa. Its location on the Mediterranean flyway makes it an important refuelling stop for migrating birds – especially on its extensive wetlands. A popular destination for birders and naturalists, Sardinia has a great diversity of fauna and flora, along with rich cultural and historical attractions. Where to Watch Birds in Sardinia, written by two ornithologists with extensive experience of Sardinian birding, provides detailed information on the 43 key birding sites in Sardinia. For each site the target species are highlighted, along with information on habitat, when to visit, other wildlife, facilities, access, how long you'll need, the photographic opportunities and recommendations for your visit. A map of each site helps with planning and navigation to the site. Often described as a micro-continent for the variety of its ecosystems, Sardinia has mountains, forests, lowlands, gorges, wetlands, long sandy beaches and rocky shores. It is home to around 300 bird species, 41 mammals, 18 reptiles and 8 amphibians as well as a hugely diverse invertebrate fauna. Owing to its geographical isolation, altitudinal variation and limited human presence, Sardinia has retained many habitats that are favourable for the development and preservation of a large number of endemic plants, accounting for 10 per cent of the island's flora and including several orchid species. Sardinia's 'must-see' birds include Greater Flamingo, Eleonora's Falcon, Purple Swamphen, Little Bustard, Audouin's Gull, Marmora's Warbler, Corsican Finch, Griffon Vulture and Barbary Partridge. In spring, April and May are the best months for migration, while for the autumn migration the best period stretches from the end of August to the end of October. Wetlands are the most important sites in springtime, with many species stopping for some days before going north. During the breeding season these areas are very important for Greater Flamingo, Audouin's Gull, Little Tern and several other species of waders, gulls and terns. The breeding season is also a good time to see 'special' resident species like the Little Bustard in display or to hear the flight call of the Corsican Finch. In winter, large concentrations of ducks and gulls are found on the island, with the occasional vagrant from Siberia or North America.Trade ReviewThis is a well written and well produced publication, ideal for field use. ... I recommend that you buy this book and visit this wonderful, thinly populated and still rather wild island. There is much to discover there. -- Andrea Corso * Ardeola *...this book provides all that you will need to plan a successful trip. -- Keith Betton * British Birds *I recommend all birders to have this book in the library, ready to be used in one of the next trips. -- Bruno Massa * Avocetta (Italian Journal of Ornithology) *Table of ContentsArchaeology Architecture Celebrations and country festivals Sport and outdoor activities Practical information Transport Accommodation Food How to use this book Regions and sites covered Site accounts Maps Itineraries Birdwatching in Sardinia Hotspots Other areas Vagrants Birding ethics Sardinia must-see species Region 1: Northwest Sardinia NW1 Asinara National Park NW2 Stintino salt marshes and Casaraccio lagoon NW3 Lake Pilo NW4 Porto Torres harbour NW5 Platamona wetland NW6 Capo Caccia NW7 Calich lagoon NW8 Campeda plateauNW9 Goceano woods NW10 Sant'Antioco di Bisarcio cathedral and Lake Coghinas Region 2: Northeast Sardinia NE1 Coghinas river mouth NE2 Monte Limbara NE3 Capo Testa NE4 La Maddalena National Park NE5 Saloni wetland NE6 Capo Figari and Figarolo NE7 Olbia wetland NE8 Island of Tavolara NE9 San Teodoro lagoon Region 3: Central West Sardinia CW1 Bosa CW2 Capo Mannu CW3 Sale 'e Porcus wetland CW4 Cabras and satellite wetlands CW5 Mistras lagoon CW6 Santa Giusta lagoon and surrounding wetlands CW7 S'Ena Arrubia wetland CW8 Marceddì lagoon CW9 Giara di Gesturi Region 4: Central East Sardinia CE1 Monte Albo CE2 Orosei Gulf CE3 Supramonte of Oliena CE4 Gennargentu massif Region 5: Southwest Sardinia SW1 San Pietro island SW2 Bau Cerbus SW3 Santa Caterina wetland and Sant'Antioco lagoon SW4 Mulargia, Porto Botte and Baiocco wetlands SW5 Porto Pino wetlands SW6 Chia basin SW7 Nora lagoon SW8 Monte Arcosu WWF reserve Region 6 Southeast Sardinia SE1 Cagliari wetlands SE2 Molentargius wetland and Poetto salt marshes SE3 Colostrai and Feraxi wetlands Suggested itineraries Itinerary 1: coast to coast in the north of Sardinia - from Olbia to Stintino Itinerary 2: from north to south along the west coast - from Stintino to Cagliari Selected bibliography About the authors Index of sites Index of species: Birds; Plants; Molluscs; Foraminifera; Corals; Arthropods; Fish; Amphibians

Read more less

Book SynopsisLocated in northern Tanzania, the Serengeti is one of the world's most famous wildlife regions. This title features more than 270 bird species most likely to be encountered in the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.Trade Review"The bird you see in the field is often exactly what you find in the book, and equally clear is its habitat, such as a thorny acacia branch or a forest floor littered with dead leaves. Kennedy also avoids using intimidating jargon to describe bird species, opting instead to keep the tone of his descriptions light hearted while still being informative... The overwhelming majority of photographs are of exceptionally high quality."--Derek Kverno, Birding in Tanzania "Essential book if you are heading for the Serengeti... Excellent."--Derek Moore, Derek Bird Brain "Birds of the Serengeti: And Ngorongoro Conservation Area by Adam Scott Kennedy may be the best birding book available covering the general safari region for northwestern Tanzania and southern Kenya. Filled with firsthand accounts, excellent photographs, and broken down into chapters by habitats, Birds of the Serengeti: And Ngorongoro Conservation Area is the guidebook for the broader non-scientific community."--Gabriel Thoumi, MongaBay.com "The amateur birder will find this a helpful book to have in hand while in Tanzania."--Library Journal "[A] great companion to existing field guides to the region, so certainly earns its place in my bag."--Martin Sullivan, BTO News "[A]n attractive and handy layout, and informative and accessible text that discusses interesting behaviors and provides insights into species background. Rich in detail, this indispensable volume uses a habitat-based approach, making it simple for everyone--from the novice to the experienced birdwatcher--to locate diverse birds in this fascinating area of the world."--BASE "I'd like to praise the overall visual effect of the Birds of the Serengeti. The overwhelming majority of photographs are of exceptionally high quality, undoubtedly shot with the finest equipment, but also indicative of a high level of skill."--Birding Tanzania Blog "These two guides are keys to prepare you for your journey, whether it is an actual safari or an imaginary one from the comfort of your home."--Dan R. Kunkle, Wildlife Activist "This field guide is 'aimed at all levels of birding ability' and it is definitely suitable for novice birders and for those on a safari primarily for mammals and larger wildlife. The ... quality of the photographs and text would make it a fine addition to field naturalist's library with an interest in East Africa."--Robert F. Foster, Canadian Field Naturalist "The result of this innovative approach is superb. It guides the layman on where to look for birds and what to look for. I wish there was such a field guide for every Important Bird Area (IBA) in East Africa!"--Fleur Ng'weno, Scopus "Superb layout ... Both books have a thoroughly modern feel about them, thanks to the wizards of the WILDGuides production team ... Those for whom these books are really intended will find their visits to these bird-rich regions hugely enhanced."--Martin Kelsey, IBIS, Journal of the British Ornithologists' Union "The friendly text is supported by a superb layout: hundreds of excellent photographs with great use of background tones means that colour leaps out of each page, yet the blocks of text are masterfully visible and easy to read."--Martin Kelsey, IBISTable of ContentsAbout this book 9 The habitats 12 Plains 13 Marsh & water 14 Woodland, scrub & garden 15 Acacia scrub 16 Village 17 Forest 18 Up in the air 19 Nightbirds 20 Lake Victoria specials 21 Map of the Serengeti & Ngorongoro Conservation Area - NCA 22 BIRDS OF THE PLAINS The Big Ones: 1 - Ostrich 24 The Big Ones: 2 - Secretarybird & Grey Crowned Crane 26 Bustards - Kori, Black-bellied & White-bellied Bustards 28 Small plover & coursers - Double-banded & Temminck's Coursers & Kittlitz's Plover 30 Vanellus plovers - Crowned, Senegal & Black-winged Plovers 32 Sandgrouse - Black-faced, Yellow-throated & Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse 34 Storks & ground hornbill - White & Abdim's Storks & Southern Ground Hornbill 36 At the carcass - Marabou Stork & Ruppell's & White-backed Vultures 38 Vultures - White-headed, Hooded & Lappet-faced Vultures 40 Vultures in flight - all species for comparison 42 Black-and-white eagles & Egyptian Vulture - Martial & Black-chested Snake Eagles & Egyptian Vulture 44 Black-and-white eagles - Verreaux's Eagle, Augur Buzzard & Bateleur 46 Brown raptors - Black Kite & Tawny & Steppe Eagles 48 Raptors in flight - all species for comparison 50 Grey raptors - Pallid & Montagu's Harriers & African Harrier Hawk 52 Large falcon & grey kite - Lanner Falcon & Black-shouldered Kite 54 Small falcons - Grey, Common & Lesser Kestrels 56 Rollers - Lilac-breasted & Eurasian Rollers 58 Oxpeckers & starling - Red-billed & Yellow-billed Oxpeckers & Wattled Starling 60 Little brown jobs or 'LBJs' - Pectoral-patch & Zitting Cisticolas & Red-capped & Rufous-naped Larks 62 Sparrow lark & chats - Fischer's Sparrow Lark & Sooty & Anteater Chats 64 Wheatears - Capped, Northern & Pied Wheatears 66 Upright birds of the plains - Yellow-throated & Rosy-breasted Longclaws & Buffy & Grassland Pipits 68 Bishop & widowbirds - Yellow Bishop & Yellow-mantled & Jackson's Widowbirds 70 BIRDS OF MARSH & WATER Flamingos - Greater & Lesser Flamingos 72 Wetland storks - Woolly-necked, Yellow-billed & African Open-billed Storks 74 Stork & ibises - Saddle-billed Stork & Sacred & Hadada Ibises 76 Small herons - Hamerkop & Striated & Squacco Herons 78 Large, dark herons - Goliath, Grey & Black-headed Herons 80 Egrets - Cattle, Little & Great White Egrets 82 Fish eagle - African Fish Eagle 84 Smaller ducks - Red-billed Teal & White-faced Whistling & Fulvous Whistling Ducks 86 Larger wildfowl - Spur-winged & Egyptian Geese & Knob-billed Duck 88 Birds of the water's edge - Black-winged Stilt, African Jacana & Black Crake 90 Wetland plovers - African Wattled, Blacksmith & Spur-winged Plovers 92 Waders: 1 - Water Thick-knee & Ruff 94 Waders: 2 - Common Greenshank, Marsh Sandpiper & Three-banded Plover 96 Waders: 3 - Wood, Common & Green Sandpipers 98 Kingfishers - Giant, Malachite & Pied Kingfishers 100 Wagtails & waxbill - Yellow & African Pied Wagtails & Common Waxbill 102 BIRDS OF WOODLand, SCRUB & GARDEN Open woodland raptors - Brown Snake & Long-crested Eagles & Steppe Buzzard 104 Bustard, thick-knee & courser - Buff-crested Bustard, Spotted Thick-knee & Heuglin's Courser 106 Spurfowl - Red-necked, Grey-breasted & Yellow-necked Spurfowl 108 Gamebirds - Helmeted Guineafowl & Coqui & Crested Francolins 110 'Collared' doves - Ring-necked, African Mourning & Red-eyed Doves 112 Distinctive pigeons & doves - Speckled & African Green Pigeons & Emerald-spotted Wood Dove 114 Doves & mousebird - Namaqua & Laughing Doves & Speckled Mousebird 116 Parrots & hornbill - Fischer's Lovebird, Meyer's Parrot & African Grey Hornbill 118 Large cuckoos & relatives - White-browed Coucal, Red-chested Cuckoo & Bare-faced Go-away-bird 120 Three green gems - Klaas's & Diederik Cuckoos & Little Bee-eater 122 Bush kingfishers - Striped, Woodland & Grey-headed Kingfishers 124 Hoopoes - Green Wood-hoopoe, Common Scimitarbill & Hoopoe 126 Barbets - Usambiro & Spot-flanked Barbets & Red-fronted Tinkerbird 128 Honeyguides & woodpecker - Greater & Lesser Honeyguides & Bearded Woodpecker 130 Woodpeckers - Green-backed, Nubian & Cardinal Woodpeckers 132 Large bushshrikes & oriole - Grey-headed Bushshrike, Tropical Boubou & Black-headed Oriole 134 Small black-and-white birds - Brown-throated Wattle-eye, Chin-spot Batis & Black-backed Puffback 136 White-fronted shrikes - Common & Grey-backed Fiscals & Northern White-crowned Shrike 138 Black birds of woodland edge - Common Drongo, Slate-coloured Boubou & Northern Black Flycatcher 140 Tchagras & bulbul - Brown-crowned & Black-crowned Tchagras, Common Bulbul 142 Thrushes, scrub robin & babbler - Spotted Morning & Olive Thrushes, White-browed Scrub Robin & Arrow-marked Babbler 144 Attractive flycatchers of woods & gardens - White-eyed Slaty & African Paradise Flycatcher 146 Little brown jobs or 'LBJs' - Rattling Cisticola, Red-faced Crombec & Tawny-flanked Prinia 148 Green warblers - Yellow-breasted Apalis, Grey-backed Camaroptera & Grey-capped Warbler 150 Sunbirds: 1 - Scarlet-chested, Collared & Variable Sunbirds 152 Sunbirds: 2 - Marico, Beautiful & Bronze Sunbirds 154 Colourful birds of bush & garden - White-browed Robin Chat & Ruppell's & Greater Blue-eared Starlings 156 Brightly coloured starlings - Superb, Hildebrandt's & Violet-backed Starlings 158 Yellow weavers - Spectacled, Baglafecht & Village Weavers 160 Waxbills - Purple Grenadier, Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu & Bronze Mannikin 162 Striking small birds of open bush - Pin-tailed Whydah, Golden-breasted Bunting & Yellow-fronted Canary 164 BIRDS OF ACACIA SCRUB Acacia barbets & go-away-bird - Red-and-yellow & Red-fronted Barbets & White-bellied Go-away-bird 166 Medium-sized birds of acacia scrub - Blue-naped Mousebird, Abyssinian Scimitarbill & Von der Decken's Hornbill 168 Shrikes - Brubru, Taita Fiscal & Magpie Shrike 170 Small birds of acacia scrub - Silverbird, African Grey Flycatcher, White-bellied Canary & Foxy Lark 172 Acacia weavers: 1 - Grey-capped Social, Speckle-fronted & Vitelline Masked Weavers 174 Acacia weavers: 2 - Red-billed Buffalo, White-headed Buffalo & Rufous-tailed Weavers 176 VILLAGE BIRDS Village sparrows - Swahili, Kenya Rufous & House Sparrows 178 Common village birds - Red-billed Firefinch, Village Indigobird & Pied Crow 180 FOREST & CRATER HIGHLandS BIRDS Large forest birds - White-necked Raven, Schalow's Turaco & Crowned Hornbill 182 Small birds of forest edge & open areas - Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, Streaky Seedeater & African Stonechat 184 BIRDS OF THE AIR Black swallows & dark martins - Black & White-headed Saw-wings & Plain & Banded Martins 186 Swallows with red rumps - Mosque, Red-rumped, Rufous-chested & Lesser Striped Swallows 188 Swallows with dark rumps - Wire-tailed, Angola & Barn Swallows 190 Swifts - Little, White-rumped, African Palm, Nyanza & Common Swifts 192 Bee-eaters - Eurasian, Blue-cheeked & White-throated Bee-eaters 194 NIGHT BIRDS Owls - Pearl-spotted Owlet, Verreaux's Eagle Owl & African Scops Owlbr 196 Barn Owl & nightjars - Barn Owl & Square-tailed / Gabon & Slender-tailed Nightjars 198 LAKE VICTORIA SPECIALS Birds of the lakeside - Blue-headed Coucal, Swamp Flycatcher & Black-headed Gonolek 200 Sunbird & weavers - Red-chested Sunbird & Grosbeak & Slender-billed Weavers 202 Lakeside weavers - Northern Brown-throated, Golden-backed & Yellow-backed Weavers 204 Terns & gull - Whiskered & White-winged Black Terns & Grey-headed Gull 206 Cormorants & small plovers - Reed & Great Cormorants & White-fronted & Common Ringed Plovers 208 Further reading & useful resources210 Acknowledgements 211 Photographic credits 212 Scientific names of the bird species included in this book 213 Index 217 Short Index inside back cover

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"A Birdwatcher's Yearbook Best Bird Book of the Year""Terrific. . . . Futuyma writes an accessible overview of bird evolution that lay readers, especially birders, will be able to understand." * BirdWatching *"[Futuyma] skillfully weaves together salient themes of evolutionary biology from the living aviary, stressing the important role that birds played in advancing our understanding of evolution."---Alan Feduccia, Science"This engaging and wide-ranging summary of virtually every aspect of avian evolution synthesizes the earliest insights from Darwin to those of modern phylogenetics, using birds to illustrate each concept. ... [Futuyma] may be the ideal person to explain the marvels of bird evolution."---Daniel S. Cooper, The Quarterly Review of Biology"How Birds Evolve is accessible, exhilarating science for everyone – amateur birder, professional naturalist or just the average man. It’s a great book and one to read over and over and I thoroughly recommend it to all. This is already my Bird Book of 2022 and I can't see it being bettered."---Phil Slade, Another Bird Blog"How Birds Evolve is a book full of accessible and exhilarating science for everyone and not just birders and professional naturalists. It’s simply a stunning book and one to read numerous times and an example of the amalgamation of science and nature writing at its finest and I thoroughly recommend it to everyone."---Roy Stewart, British Naturalists Association"The delight is in the detail. . . . Futuyma unpacks the story of evolutionary science alongside the story of how birds evolved. . . . [How Birds Evolve] is entertaining and passionate."---Simon Ings, New Scientist"[Futuyma’s] life-long passion and competence guide us across the pages of this book with a hint of humour."---Gaia Bazz, Community Ecology ​​​​​​​

Read more less

Book SynopsisLearn to create a variety of birds following the newest embroidery trend: thread painting. Through a collection of 12 detailed, full-color patterns, aspiring and established embroidery artists will discover how to employ the art of thread painting to create a range of popular birds and waterfowl from around the world, including North America, the Amazon rain forest, and Europe.Thread painting is the name for using single strands of embroidery floss to create lifelike images with beautifully blended gradients of color and detail. Fortunately, the process is not as hard as it sounds! After learning a bit about how to create gradients and blend colors, anyone can create incredible embroidered masterpieces. Embroidery Made Easy: Beautiful Birds includes: A primer on embroidery materials, setup, and thread painting techniques Patterns that indicate where each color should go and when the gradients should begin Trade Review"A ideal tutorial featuring easy techniques for anyone wanting to learn how to embroider a variety of colorful birds, including a cardinal, a barn owl, and a puffin. Simply stated, Embroidery Made Easy: Beautiful Birds will prove to be a welcome and appreciated addition to personal, professional, and community library Needlecraft instructional reference collections." * Midwest Book Review *Table of ContentsIntroduction Tools & Materials Stitching Techniques Finishing Touches Step-by-Step Projects Calliope Hummingbird, Cardinal, Keen-Billed Toucan, Wood Duck, American Flamingo, Kingfisher, Atlantic Puffin, Swallow, Barn Owl, Hoopoe, Raven, Eastern Bluebird Pattern Templates About the Author

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Birkhead has combined ingenuity and perseverance to produce an evocative portrait of a great pioneer in the scientific study of birds'' Literary ReviewFrancis Willughby lived and thrived in the midst of the scientific revolution of the seventeenth century. Along with his Cambridge tutor John Ray, Willughby was determined to overhaul the whole of natural history and impose order on its complexity. It was exhilarating, exacting and exhausting work. Yet before Willughby and Ray could complete their monumental encyclopaedia of birds, Ornithology, Willughby died. In the centuries since, Ray's reputation has grown, obscuring that of his collaborator. Now, for the first time, Willughby's own story and genius are given the attention they deserve. Tim Birkhead celebrates how Willughby's endeavours set a standard for the way birds and natural history should be studied. Rich with glorious detail, The Wonderful Mr Willughby is a fascinating insight into a thrilling peTrade ReviewIn this engrossing biography of "the first true ornithologist", Birkhead takes us on imaginative journey to the time of Charles II, when there was no classification of animals, birds and plants; when men such as Willughby often endured great hardship in order to make ground-breaking discoveries -- Bel Mooney * Daily Mail *Energetically pursuing his quarry, Birkhead has combined ingenuity and perseverance to produce an evocative portrait of a great pioneer in the scientific study of birds -- Patricia Fara * Literary Review *Brilliantly researched – a vivid celebration of a neglected pioneer of scientific natural history -- Nick Davies, author of 'Cuckoo'A joint celebration of two of the great scientific brains of the Age of Reason … [An] engaging study’ * Country Life *[A] precise and rigorously told biography … There’s a quiddity about [Birkhead's] writing that follows in his subject's steps -- Philip Hoare * New Statesman *Fascinating * Big Issue *Francis Willughby is an ideal subject for a biography … An entertaining and informative book, packed with well-explained scientific detail -- Sam Leith * Spectator *The story of Willughby’s short life, elegantly and engagingly told by Tim Birkhead -- Francis Gooding * London Review of Books *Enthralling ... Tim Birkhead’s careful sleuthing uncovers the remarkable story of an ingenious gentleman-scholar living at the dawn of the scientific revolution -- Matt Ridley, author of 'The Evolution of Everything'If you ever thought the history of natural history might be dull, this wonderful book, a masterpiece of biographical sleuthing, will quickly dispel that illusion … The author’s passion for his subjects, both human and avian, shine through as he brings history to life and relates past to present -- Jonathan Elphick * BBC Wildlife *Magnificent: science without any high falutin' technology -- Praise for 'The Most Perfect Thing', David AttenboroughBrilliant. It's so wonderful when you come across a book on a subject you are not naturally drawn to and you're completely engaged by it -- Praise for 'The Most Perfect Thing', Bill BrysonFull of wonder and surprise and beautifully written -- Praise for 'The Most Perfect Thing', Nick Davies, author of 'Cuckoo'Birkhead’s approach to writing – hard, clear sentences; deep, revelatory looking – has the same effect as his microscope, bringing objects to light that were previously hidden, making us see the familiar with new eyes … After reading The Most Perfect Thing, you’ll never dip your morning soldiers without a shiver of wonder at the complexity and resgourcefulness of the humble egg -- Praise for 'The Most Perfect Thing', Alex Preston * Observer *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA definitive site guide to three of Britain''s most bird-rich counties Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.East Anglia the jewel in the crown of British birding. The counties of Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire represent the most popular region for birders and naturalists to visit in the British Isles, whether to see wintering flocks of geese and waders, rare vagrants, scarce breeding birds such as cranes and bitterns, or just to soak up the countryside, be it fen, broad, coastal dune, breckland, heath or down. This new book by David Callahan is the definitive guide to the birding highlights of the region. It contains a comprehensive review of all the major sites, and many lesser-known ones, with maps, notes on access, and information on target species and when to visit. Where to Watch Birds in East Anglia is indispensable for any birder heading to this bird-rich corner of England.Trade ReviewThe book is authoritative, well presented and generally well researched, and is clearly the new definitive guide to the region. -- James Hanlon * Birdwatch *Table of ContentsKey to Sites Acknowledgements Introduction How to Use This Book Definitions of terms and abbreviations Cambridgeshire The Fens and the Ouse Washes Norfolk Breckland The Broads National Park Suffolk Appendices References Key to Map Symbols Index to Species

Read more less

Book SynopsisForeword by Chris PackhamThis beautiful book accompanies a new photographic competition celebrating some of the best bird photography of the year.The Bird Photographer of the Year competition celebrates the artistry of bird photography, and this large-format book is lavishly illustrated to reflect this. A celebration of avian beauty and diversity, it is a tribute to both the dedication and passion of the photographers as well as a reflection of the quality of today's modern digital imaging systems.The book includes the winning and short-listed images from the competition, showcasing some of the finest bird photography, with a foreword by BTO President and head judge, Chris Packham. A proportion of the profits from the book goes directly to the BTO to support their conservation work.The advent of digital technology has revolutionised photography in recent years, and the book brings to life some of the most stunning bird photography currently on offer. It features a vast variety of photo

Read more less

Book SynopsisForeword by Chris PackhamThis beautiful book accompanies a new photographic competition celebrating some of the best bird photography of the year.The Bird Photographer of the Year competition celebrates the artistry of bird photography, and this large-format book is lavishly illustrated to reflect this. A celebration of avian beauty and diversity, it is a tribute to both the dedication and passion of the photographers as well as a reflection of the quality of today's modern digital imaging systems.The book includes the winning and short-listed images from the competition, now in its fourth year, showcasing some of the finest bird photography, with a foreword by BTO President and head judge, Chris Packham. A proportion of the profits from the book goes directly to the BTO to support their conservation work.The advent of digital technology has revolutionised photography in recent years, and the book brings to life some of the most stunning bird photography currently on offer. It featuresTrade Review‘Even if you don’t know your corncrakes from your cornflakes, you’ll still be entranced.’ Irish Independent Review

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this beautiful, collectible new volume, street artist Matt Sewell offers his own unique take on 52 of Britain''s favorite garden birds. Since its first appearance in July 2009, Matt''s Bird of the Week feature for the Caught by the River website has quickly become a cult hit. His pop-art watercolors are distinctive and enchanting, as are his innovative descriptions. With 52 birds, one for each week of the year, this delightful gift book will appeal to birders, children, and adults, and art and design fans alike.Trade ReviewAn offbeat book featuring 52 charming characterful illustrations of our best-loved British birds. * BBC Wildlife *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA high-quality boxed notecard set featuring beautiful and noteworthy birds from Audubon's Birds of America.

Read more less

Book SynopsisDescribes the struggle to become nationally recognised 'Birder of the Year', a competition involving much travelling and sometimes a little guile too. This book contains accounts of several bird species encountered, as well as descriptions of the habitats visited.Table of ContentsForeword; Prologue; Chapter One: January a moving experience; Chapter Two: February getting into the groove; Chapter Three: Marching on together; Chapter Four: April showers of migrants; Chapter Five: May The Lochans of Mercury; Chapter Six: June and July the half-time break; Chapter Seven: August unto the breach once more; Chapter Eight: September getting personal; Chapter Nine: October the Scilly season; Chapter Ten: November and December the final furlong; Chapter Eleven: The nineteenth hole; Chapter Twelve: Epilogue Chapter Thirteen: Further adventures of the silver-haired man The list Acknowledgements;

Read more less

Book SynopsisForeword by Chris Packham. The author recounts his own experiences - the highs and the lows, the trials and tribulations - of being an avid birder in a world seemingly populated by experts and high-flyers. Join him on an often humorous and irreverent journey around the UK.Trade Review...From the rivalry between the author and his brother as children and their adventures, to his rediscovery of nature in all its glory, especially the winged kind, was the journey of a man with a passion that is detailed beautifully in this volume. The author writes with ease and imagination and his prose is a joy to read. The fact that he documents visits to some of my favourite wildlife watching spots made it even more entertaining but above all his love of nature shines through. This tale is accompanied by a parallel story of romance as he manages to find a like minded soul mate. A very enjoyable read. --Jenny Steel, www.wildlife-gardening.co.uk There is no birder out there who never gets it wrong, although there are a great many who would have you believe otherwise so it is refreshing to tag along with an average birder who can demonstrate that the richness and beauty of birding is all about the experience not the theory. Nice one Andrew. --Fatbirder Feb. 2012 The latest in a fairly long line of birding and twitching books, this tells the story of Andrew's journey into birdwatching as a boy. Early trips with his brother to the marshes in Essex and Kent will ring bells with many of us who followed similar paths of birding. There are many accounts of day-trips with the triumph and downfalls that beset all young birders. For a time, Andrew gives up the hobby, but he later rekindles the interest and, with his girlfriend (now wife), he travels more widely. Andrew never makes it into what I am sure he would see as the upper echelons of birding and clearly feels a bit of an outsider and, in that respect, I think his story will feel familiar to many people. This is a short read, but an enjoyable one, and better than I expected. --Birding World, April 2012 Andrew Fallan has written the latest in a recent growing genre of birders autobiographies. Fallan describes how he got the bug, what this has led to through his life and many of the ups and downs of this pastime. - This endearing tale recounts the continuous, occasionally desperate search for those rarities that appear in the UK occasionally, the failures and the successes, trials and tribulations of chasing birds, and reported sightings around the UK. Fallan lives in Essex, not known as a destination for great birding, and seems to spend much of the book longing for Norfolk, where he and his partner have many successes, but find themselves being brushed aside by some of the 'me first' crowd. - Packham says "I do definitely concur with his thoughts on a proportion of the twitching fraternity. They actually put me off birding for a while in the same fashion that football thuggery put me off going to see the beautiful game." wildlifeextra.com Andrew Fallan's concept of birding for 'low-flyers' certainly strikes a chord; after all, we can't all be the next birding equivalent of George Michael or Richard Dawkins ... The author has an acute sense of self-awareness and integrity - - British Trust for Ornithology The book celebrates a pure and unpretentious approach to birding that many birders could gain something from. The reason many of us go birding comes from a powerful and deep-seated connection that is impossible to explain to friends and family who question the attraction of traipsing around lonely marshes and woodlands, with binoculars swinging from the neck. At least, it's something that's hard to explain in a single conversation, but Andrew Fallan, in this short book, has more or less put his finger on the simple magic of watching birds - The book takes a refreshingly down-to-earth and holistic view of enjoying birds. It serves very well as a reminder of the great pleasure that is to be had by, for instance, forgetting about getting your head around the mirrors and tongue on P10 and instead looking in raw wonder at the refined form that is a gull against a marvellous coastal backdrop. Communicating the fulfilment in taking this basic approach is something that Fallan does excellently - - Birdwatch magazineTable of ContentsAbout the Author Foreword Acknowledgements Chapter 1 It started with a Kestrel... Chapter 2 Birding for low-flyers Chapter 3 Boys, bikes and birds Chapter 4 Further afield Chapter 5 Even further afield Chapter 6 The wilderness years Chapter 7 Return from exile Chapter 8 A match made in Norfolk Chapter 9 Targeted strikes Chapter 10 Of owls and raptors Chapter 11 Optical debacles Chapter 12 In search of raptors - again Chapter 13 Capercaillies - they don't exist! Chapter 14 A twitch too far Bibliography

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhat is it like to be a swift, flying at over one hundred kilometres an hour? Or a kiwi, plodding flightlessly among the humid undergrowth in the pitch dark of a New Zealand night? And what is going on inside the head of a nightingale as it sings, and how does its brain improvise? Bird Sense addresses questions like these and many more, by describing the senses of birds that enable them to interpret their environment and to interact with each other. Our affinity for birds is often said to be the result of shared senses - vision and hearing - but how exactly do their senses compare with our own? And what about a birds'' sense of taste, or smell, or touch or the ability to detect the earth''s magnetic field? Or the extraordinary ability of desert birds to detect rain hundreds of kilometres away - how do they do it? Bird Sense is based on a conviction that we have consistently underestimated what goes on in a bird''s head. Our understanding of bird behaviour is simultaneouslTrade ReviewAn absolutely absorbing book, on almost every page there is an astonishing observation or revelation -- Peter Parker * Daily Telegraph *An eye-opening guide to all matters ornithological ... His tour of the frontiers of our understanding of birds is stuffed with mind-boggling facts and insights. Thoroughly engaging, it also gives us a thrilling sense of the vast, unmapped territories that lie beyond, waiting to be discovered -- Christopher Hart * Sunday Times *A joy to read, simultaneously fascinating and hilarious ... a book that is thoughtful, thoroughly researched and engagingly written throughout -- Jamie Condliffe * New Scientist *An inspired bringing together of all the latest scientific research on avian sight, sound, touch and taste as well as smell, along with some senses which are beyond human capabilities altogether ... if you pick up Bird Sense, however wise you think you are, you'll learn something new -- Michael McCarthy * Independent *This fascinating book has much to teach us, not just about what it means to be a bird, but about the rewards and responsibilities of our coexistence with these wonderful creatures -- David Wheatley * Guardian *Superb ... like having the top of your own head lifted off and its contents deliciously stirred: no one after reading this book could think it was possible to know too much, no one could think science removes us from feeling ... his richly engaging book so deepens our understanding of what is familiar that we are returned to the birds we know around us and the wider world with a revivified sense of how life comes and goes -- Tim Dee * Observer *Remarkable in its celebration of birds * New York Times *

Read more less