Wildlife: birds and birdwatching: general interest Books

Book SynopsisPart aspirational encyclopedia, part identification guide, 100 Birds to See in Your Lifetime provides detailed summary information and range maps, along with beautifully written profiles featuring unusual facts, anecdotes and its significance. Whilst many of the species would be on any bird enthusiast's wish list, the list has been fiercely debated by two renowned birding authors, using various criteria to arrive at a top 100. Some species are endangered and therefore a must to see and conserve; others are quite common but have a particular plumage or behaviour that makes them exceptional; and others have a legendary status amongst birdwatchers and the layman, such as the dancing Red-crowned Cranes and the spectacular Gyr Falcon. Table of ContentsForeword. Introduction. The 100 Birds. Further Reading. Resources. Index. Ticklist.

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Book SynopsisThis book will take readers on a flying visit round the world, scouring the seven continents for the biggest, brightest and best birds on the planet. Urban Jungle creator Vicky Woodgate perfectly captures the brilliance of the bird world, each chapter taking us to a new continent and introducing birds from hummingbirds to hawks, and parrots to penguins. With a vintage travelogue feel, vibrant artwork and fascinating annotations, it is a book that will appeal to wildlife lovers from 7 to 70!Trade ReviewThere has been a lot of coverage in the press (especially with the publication of Robert MacFarlane's and Jackie Morris's beautiful book The Lost Words) about how today's children are struggling to identify common animals, birds, insects and plants. According to a poll by Wilko in 2016, one in four primary-school children cannot identify a blackbird or robin. This inspired author and illustrator Vicky Woodgate to create this beautiful picture and reference book, which not only looks at birds close to home but also explores those around the world. There are 10,000 different species of birds in the world, so to look at all of these in one book is clearly impossible! Instead, Vicky has chosen 75 and examined what makes them so special.In the beginning, Vicky sums up what unites all the birds of the world. They:are all vertebrates (ie they have a skeleton)hatch from eggshave horny beaks (at least, the adults do!)have feathersare all descended from feathered, meat-eating dinosaurs that lived millions of years ago (how cool is that: to have a relative of a dinosaur eating up your breakfast crumbs?).I found it fascinating to read that the shape of a bird's beak is determined by their lifestyle and diet, that they have nostrils for smelling, and that they have four toes: three facing forward and one facing back. Their wings also determine how the bird flies.The book is divided and colour-coded into seven continents, highlighting species of birds that live in each. Vicky includes enough information on the birds to make it interesting and memorable and her drawings are beautiful - detailed but not dry. The pages have pale, dusky colours that set the birds off well, with a squared background to make the paper look more as if it has come from an exercise book. There are added extras, too: named plants, nests, etc.I learned a lot reading A World of Birds. Some of my favourite discoveries were:The Laughing Kookaburra, which literally screeches with laughter and is the largest member of the kingfisher family.The Macaroni Penguin, which is named after the lavish hairstyles of 18th-century gentlemen called Macaronis.The Eurasian Hoopoe, whose superpower is a dreadful stench that drives potential predators away. Yuk but clever!The Blue-Footed Booby, which is as clumsy as its name seems to suggest. It uses its big feet to do some dad dancing and marching during courtship and, apparently, the bluer the feet, the more attractive it is! The name comes from the Spanish word bobo, which means 'clown' and this bird certainly lives up to its name!This book is going straight into my non-fiction collection. It's one that I know I will want to keep returning to as I love fact books that entertain as well as inform. Children and adults will get equal enjoyment from this fun and informative title. * Childtastic Books *Take a flying visit around theworld, scouring the sevencontinents for the biggest,brightest and best birds onthe planet.Afascinating look atsome birds we arefamiliar with, suchas owls, commoncuckoo and toucanto the less familiarsuch as the greatcrested grebe,the hoatzin orthe resplendentquetzal. Greatillustrations whichare clear andinteresting too! * Creative Steps *A World of Birds is a beautifully crafted non-fiction text, which introduces the reader to 75 birds across all seven continents. I immediately warmed to the author when I read the acknowledgement 'For my best friend Asa who knows nothing about birds'. This book was for me.The first six pages tell you everything you need to know about the generic features of birds, and provided me with a clear structure on which to hang the fascinating details that followed. Each continent is introduced with a map which you can use to track migratory flights. Although this is a book many would just dip into, I read it from cover to cover due to the beautiful illustrations and quirky facts. Did you know the ostrich is the only bird to have two toes? I was also very excited to learn about precocial chicks, which can stand within minutes of hatching, fully feathered and ready to forage. The adjective 'precocious' now makes so much more sense.Every detail of the illustrations provides the right balance of informative detail without overloading the reader. The pastel shades of background squared paper are easy on the eye and divide up the continents.. The use of outline sketches alongside the fully-coloured and annotated diagrams allowed the reader to move from the key features to fascinating details easily. Each page then hones in on the particular characteristics of one bird: their calls, the history of their names, their size, mating habits, sources of food and the state of their natural environment.What I liked about this book is that it doesn't work to a set formula. For each bird, Vicky Woodgate has selected a few interesting key pieces of information, which the reader is likely to remember. I appreciated this 'less is more' approach and think younger readers will too.Subtly underpinning this excellent example of non-fiction is the message about the fragile state of the environment of many of these birds. I am tempted to say this would make an excellent Guided Reading book, but the cost may prohibit this. Pupils could use all their non-fiction reading skills to locate information and the book would provide a fabulous springboard for further discussions about nature and the environment.At the very least, every school library needs a copy of A World of Birds * Just Imagine *As children, many of us probably spent more than one wet day poring over Dorling Kindersley-style illustrated books, eagerly taking in the facts and figures.Vicky Woodgate's A World of Birds uses a similar fact-based approach to introduce a selection of 75 species from across the globe, from magnificent frigatebirds to kingfishers to eclectus parrots. Special adaptive features are picked out, along with various quirky snippets on behaviour and biology.While my three-year-old enjoyed the colourful illustrations and pointing out the species he recognised, the book's main appeal will be to slightly older children, who will no doubt delight in reciting their new-found knowledge: wild turkeys, for instance, can run at speeds of up to 40kmph; bee hummingbird eggs are the size ofpeas; and kingfishers have a third, transparent eyelid. * Discover Wildlife *It is rare to find a compact information book containing such carefully selected facts and descriptions of 74 different birds - their habits, courtship and partnership behaviour, food, flight, speed and particularly notable features, like the cassowary's kick. Each bird is given a whole page, colourfully illustrated and clearly annotated. It is helpfully arranged in continents, each clealy mapped, with a concise contents' list, a two-page spread, and a very usable index. A most informative and interesting reference book for school and class libraries, but also ideal as a gift for budding ornithologists, both young and no so young. * Carousel *

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Book SynopsisA collection of stunning images of the everyday birds of Dublin City. Cormorants, ducks, gulls, swans, herons, pigeons. Caught on the wing, at rest, in play, feeding and preening. From the Malahide Estuary to the Blessington Basin and Dublin’s parks and canals: each one rendered in exhilirating detail. Nature on display here in its wonder and glory by a master of the lens, Ray Beggan.

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Book SynopsisThe Great Spotted Woodpecker first bred in Ireland in 2009. Since then the author has followed the daily lives of this species, a family of whom had taken up residence in a windtorn Spanish chestnut tree near his home in the depths of County Wicklow. This unique and personal account of a family of woodpeckers raising their young brings the reader deep into the world of this fascinating species: a world of hope, love, death, new life and ultimately success. It explores the richness and diversity of the natural wonders found in County Wicklow against a backdrop of a more general overview of the species in Ireland. It includes a foreword by filmmaker John Boorman, and features illustrations by Killian Mullarney and Flemming Christoffersen with stunning colour photographs by Dick Coombes. This book is to be treasured by everyone – not just ornithologists, but those with an interest in the natural world around them.Trade Review‘As engaging an expression of a true naturalist’s passion as Ireland has produced ... So immediate and concerned is [the author’s] account that one comes to live it with him, if spared the scourge of midges that penetrate his dark and humid hide.’ —THE IRISH TIMES ‘We are visited by hope, joy, pathos, tragedy, suAs engaging an expression of a true naturalist’s passion as Ireland has produced … So immediate and concerned is [the author’s] account that one comes to live it with him, if spared the scourge of midges that penetrate his dark and humid hide. -- Michael Viney * Irish Times *One man’s passion brings to life the story of this once-extinct bird’s return to the Republic. -- John Quinn * The Sunday Times *This book, charting these new arrivals to our shore, captures the honesty and harshness of the life-cycle so well. If anything, it shows how even in the most arduous of environments, immense beauty is to be found. -- Daniel Seery * Dublin Inquirer *

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Book SynopsisAn appealing book that rightfully raises the profile of the kestrel. It provides an extensive picture of this delightful falcon, including its lifestyle and the factors that affect its breeding success and survival. This is based upon almost 40 years' monitoring of the kestrel in south-west Scotland and further afield by the author and colleagues, giving a flavour of the integrated approach to monitoring and conservation. As well as the wealth of factual data, there are entertaining anecdotes and stories both from the author's experiences and from the wider media coverage of this raptor over the years. The reader is taken to exotic locations such as the Seychelles, Mauritius and the Cape Verde Islands to see the endemic island kestrels which have always held a great fascination for the author. Latest figures show an alarming decline of 36% in the kestrel population in the UK, with even more dramatic falls such as 64% in Scotland. The fieldwork techniques which play such an important role are detailed in a composite breeding season. The kestrel is not portrayed in isolation and the bird's current circumstance is tied into the bigger picture of raptor conservation and the struggle against sustained persecution. The author reflects upon the political, economic and conservation issues that have dominated this field in the past few decades and through this personal and well-informed account the reader gains access to the world of the kestrel.Trade Review'Profusely illustrated, the book shows kestrels hatching and in natural habitats across the globe, from Scotland to the Seychelles. His collection of enthusiasts' notes finds kestrels everywhere - even Downing Street'. The Critics '...this fascinating and absorbing book written by a dedicated expert. Over 40 years the author has assembled a wealth of information... ...is easily read and contains large numbers of excellent photographs...' Scottish Birds '...has some fascinating stories... ...Riddle gives a vivid account of clashes between kestrels and such powerful raptors as peregrine falcons and goshawks'. Feather Report, The Times '...If you want to know about kestrels then this is the book for you... ...a well-documented history of the many species ... is one of the best accounts on the subject I have read'. Highland News, The Star and Lochaber News 'An appealing book that rightfully raises the profile of the kestrel. It provides an extensive picture of this delightful falcon. ...through this personal and well-informed account the reader gains access to the world of the kestrel'. NHBS '...an appealing portrait of this beautiful bird and explores the problems it faces...' Daily Mail '...personal and well-informed account gives valuable insight s into the private life of this delightful falcon. ...he combines a wealth of facts with entertaining anecdotes and experiences'. Ayrshire Post '...celebrates this species of falcon. Profusely illustrated, the book shows kestrels hatching and in natural habitats across the glove, from Scotland to the Seychelles'. The Critics '...the long- awaited sequel to Seasons with a Kestrel. ...a fascinating account of the author's journey to see the endemic island Kestrels and meet the people directly involved in their conservation. ... Exciting and intriguing anecdotes ... captivate the reader and provide an informative and colourful overview ... of these magnificent Kestrels. ... Gordon Riddle's passion for Kestrels is apparent throughout this well-balanced, richly illustrated and readable book, which also shows what it takes to be a truly excellent fieldworker. I recommend it wholeheartedly'. IBIS

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Book SynopsisThis glorious book features many of the best sites and nature reserves in North West England that are freely available to be explored and enjoyed. Enjoying bird watching in Lancashire and Cumbria highlights not only the wonderful birds, flora and fauna of the two counties but also the opportunities for walks, manageable for almost everyone, amidst stunning natural beauty. There is little doubt good exercise and a healthy lifestyle generates physical and mental awareness and indeed a sense of fulfillment. Where appropriate the author shares his knowledge as a historian too by describing sites of considerable archaeological or historic interest.Bird watching walks is without doubt an original concept of David Hindle. It was originally conceived and developed by him to get the public into the beautiful countryside of Lancashire's Bowland AONB., to share and enjoy his love of birds and all things natural in nature. The target area for readers is aimed at families thereby hopefully stimulating a life -long interest in the natural world with children. For the hiker there is a profusion of bracing walks; for the ornithologist there are gloriously coloured photographs and specialist comments on bird populations and conservation issues. More experienced naturalists and bird watchers will benefit by adding to their knowledge of sites and crucial habitats.The author is dedicated to the cause of nature conservation. He was awarded the prestigious Marsh Christian Trust Community Wetland Conservation Award in 2019, on behalf of the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust for services to wetland conservation. He is the author of seventeen books, on an eclectic range of subjects including co-author of the definitive work on Lancashire ornithology: the Birds of Lancashire and North Merseyside. Royalties from his books have been donated to worthy charities including the RSPB By sharing his ornithological knowledge David has been instrumental in motivating thousands to partake and enjoy a wonderful hobby so just get out there and enjoy!

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Book SynopsisIran is a country rich in wildlife and, under the Shah, was one of the first in the world to develop a conservation program. A natural crossroads over which migrations of men and animals have flowed since the beginning of time, the country has two completely different climatic zones enabling an extraordinary variety of species to flourish. Surprisingly, however, the details are poorly documented in the West. This book is the first to explore the major species of mammals and birds, both as they are now and as they have evolved through time. It will serve as an invaluable guide for wildlife enthusiasts and travelers.

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Book SynopsisMunias are widespread throughout the Old World's tropical regions. In their natural habitat, they are birds of the savanna, but they have adapted to a number of different habitats, including areas inhabited by humans. They range in size from the Java sparrow (which is about the size of a common starling) to the diminutive Madagascar mannikin. Their striking plumage makes them popular as cagebirds and they breed readily in captivity. This book covers 43 species of munias and mannikins. The author has recently described one new species and ten new subspecies to science.

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Book SynopsisRemarkable birds of South Africa is not meant to be a field guide, but rather gives the reader an overview of the huge variety of birds right on our doorstep. Arranged in taxonomic order, it provides the reader with fascinating notes about the weird and wonderful lives and habits of many bird families or species. There is information on their appearance, voice, preferred habitat, distribution, feeding behaviour, breeding method and much more. Each family is illustrated with carefully chosen full colour photographs. This title is a celebration of our great avian diversity. But sadly, many of South Africa's bird species are endangered and even face extinction due to habitat modification and human disturbance. Remarkable Birds offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of birds and hopefully this title will contribute to knowledge and interest in the remarkable diversity of birds with which South Africa has been blessed.

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Book SynopsisBird watching, especially by enthusiastic novices, is presently one of the fastest growing pastimes in the world. It offers healthy relaxation and exercise with the added benefit to enhance the bird watcher's knowledge about nature and to contribute to our scientific knowledge. The Lowveld of South Africa, which is home to arguably the most well-known and popular game reserve in the world, the Kruger National Park, is to a large extent still unspoilt and the peaceful home of its exceptionally rich birdlife. The Spotter's guide - Birds of the Lowveld, compiled by two of South Africa's most distinguished birders and in association with ornithologists, museums and bird clubs, is an innovative and practical field guide in a handy pocket size that features all the bird species normally found in the Lowveld. The condenced list makes the identification task of the 541 regular and 47 visiting bird species a great deal easier. It includes: Dueldex, a bilingual index of common group names; a handy Shapefinder for quick and easy identification; excellent photographs for easy identification.

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Book SynopsisThis is an account of one man's 30-year involvement with England's rarest bird, the golden eagle. Initially employed by the RSPB as a senior species protection warden at a secret location in Cumbria, the author describes the intricacies of establishing a protection regime by wardens that would operate for the next 26 years and his efforts to protect and study this iconic species. The Lakeland eagles were at their most productive during his tenure, rearing six eaglets in the six years before he widened his interest to study eagles in Scotland as well as England. The author discovered and recorded many previously unknown facts about golden eagles. He began to plan and implement projects which would expand knowledge of the species as well as helping to secure their foothold in England. His project is the most detailed and complete study of a pair of golden eagles with, at its heart, the life and times of an eagle he followed from its arrival in 1982 until its death, 22 years later. A bird that would eventually show little fear of him and accept his presence rather than flee. The author recounts the hardships experienced by the eagle and eagle-watcher alike, and his record of behaviour at the nest is unparalleled. However, working with golden eagles is not without difficulties and the author's encounters with unsympathetic shepherds and poor decision-making are also described, as are his dealings with egg collectors who craved to add the rare English eagle eggs to their collections. His efforts to counter their intrusions even saw him rebuilding eagle eyries that had been so dispassionately destroyed! However, "Call of the Eagle" amply illustrates the close attachment and passion that drove the author to devote so much of his life to this magnificent raptor, famed as the King of Birds.

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Book SynopsisThe hen harrier is one of the iconic species of the bird world and its history is a mix of controversy, persecution, and recent patchy recovery. This book, a dedicated study of the bird in N. Ireland for over two decades, provides a detailed account of the life, habits and prospects for the bird. The author presents much new information about the harrier in its continuing struggle to re-establish its hold despite high levels of persecution from man or predation by other species. Having spent thousands of hours over many years studying these birds, he was rewarded by the discovery that this ground-nesting species was nesting in tall conifers in the forests of County Antrim - the only country throughout their vast European range where this occurs annually. Other significant finds soon became apparent as did the discovery that red kites were nesting for the first time and marsh harriers had returned to nest for the first time in almost 200 years. The author's passion for the bird is obvious as he shares moments of excitement and sadness, and he speaks frankly about the maltreatment and mismanagement of this elegant raptor over the years.Trade Review'Don Scott's new book is a well written and eminently readable account of his dedicated studies of this species in Northern Ireland. ... This book is an essential read for all those interested in the hen harrier and the conservation of birds of prey in general, and comes highly recommended.' Peregrine 'I cannot recall an account of a bird that has been so moving, revealing the author's passion for a bird despite all the problems. - Whilst it is packed with fascinating detail, it still makes easy reading and the author make you feel you are part of thisbird's story of mixed success. It is more than a fitting addition to the latest books on hen harriers for anyone's bookshelf.' The Highland News, The Lochaber News and The North Star ' - the first such study of the species in Northern Ireland. It was a monumental undertaking and has been written up as a very readable diary. - his immense bank of knowledge and expertise - I would recommend this book to any raptor enthusiast, particulary those who undertake field work. It is an inspiring read, delightfully devoid of graphs, tables and stats, yet manages to present an absorbing scientific account of the species in County Antrim.' Bird Art & Photography ' - another great read in a series of raptor books - - describes the biology, behaviour and conservation of this magnificent raptorwith a focus on Northern Ireland. But he also mentions observations from other places and other researchers and also draws comparison to other harrier species (he has observed all harrier species around the world). - Of particular interest are Don's observations about tree nesting Hen Harriers, which is a rare behaviour and has rarely been observerd outside of North Ireland. - easy to read and hard to put down. - a great read for anyone interested raptors in general or harriers in particular. Recommended.' European Raptors 'One remarkable discovery involved in tree-nesting behaviour, which had been considered extremely rare in Hen Harriers, but in this population has been found to be relatively frequent. - it is very detailed and thorough.' BTO News

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Book SynopsisA thoroughly entertaining personal account of the author’s birding expeditions to some of Australia’s very special islands. She hasn’t attempted to include every one of the 8,371 islands of Australia but she has visited the country’s most extreme islands: the most southerly (Macquarie), the most northerly (Boigu, which just pips Christmas by one degree), the most westerly (Cocos) and the most easterly (Norfolk). Her aim in selecting the islands was very simple: to include those where she’s had fun birding; where she has seen lots of birds, several `lifers’ (her own life list of birds encountered in the wild), islands with birds never seen before in Australia or some where she had special encounters with common birds. Though Sue Taylor is herself a "twitcher", Birding Australia's Islands will appeal not only to intrepid birdwatchers who intend to follow in her footsteps, but also to those who are content to sit at home and read about the audacity of others who will fly across Australia’s vast continent in the hope that one individual bird will still be there waiting for them when they arrive. Illustrated with beautiful close-up photographs of species and habitats, Sue Taylor describes her adventures on 22 of Australia’s islands with humour and irrepressible enthusiasm. There are detailed and locator maps of every island featured In the book

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Book SynopsisThis fully illustrated guide describes over 60 of the best sites for viewing both common and rare species. Organised by state, detailed descriptions of each site cover the type of terrain and specific spots at which certain species are likely to be encountered. A fact file for each site details how to get there; facilities; nearby services and accommodation. Key species for each site are also listed.

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Book Synopsis'A thrilling, deeply emotional and authentic bird-lover's travelogue.' James Lowen, author of Much Ado About Mothing 'One spring morning, as the cuckoos were arriving in England, we departed. At Tilbury Docks we slowly edged our Toyota camper into a shipping container and, like a heron scooping a frog from a marsh, our container was hoisted high over the dockside. Inside was everything we needed, our new life bound for South America.' After a vicious attack left Michael Webster in treatment for years, it was only his love of nature - in particular birds - that truly healed. Repaying this debt to nature, he and his wife embarked on their trip of a lifetime, travelling through South America; immersed in the wild, following and filming birds. For over four years Michael and Paula travelled the length of the Andes, the greatest mountain chain on Earth. From penguins in Patagonia, up beyond the hummingbirds of the equator, to the flamingos of the Caribbean. They endured dust storms, thundering gales, icy mountain tops and skin-searing heat, and tested the limits of their physical and mental strength as they lived wild, month after month, camping under galaxies of diamond stars. The Condor's Feather is testament to the possibility of new adventures, new friendships and new hope.Trade Review'A thrilling, deeply emotional and authentic bird-lover's travelogue. Michael Webster conveys just why South America's rare birds and wildlife need saving - and provides inspiration for all of us to do our bit to help.' - James Lowen, author of Much Ado About Mothing and editor of Neotropical Birding

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"There is indeed something special about parrots. Bond and Diamond have captured beautifully the essence of both the extreme complexity and sophistication of the wild birds and our complex relationship with them. Thinking Like a Parrot nails the most difficult aspect by managing to explain, without getting bogged down, the high levels of cognition and intelligence of parrots, especially in context of their complex social lives. Totally original and engagingly written."--Robert Heinsohn, Australian National University

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Book SynopsisRothenberg takes us to Berlin’s urban landscape to discover and engage with one of nature’s most beautiful and celebrated sounds, the nightingale’s song.

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewIs Birdsong Music? is an absorbing and delightfully written field diary as much as it is a technical analysis of sound and a philosophical discussion of the concept of music . . . Hollis Taylor's book encourages us to recognise the importance and interconnectedness of all species. She challenges the dominant view that humans represent the pinnacle of all life and can act independently of the environment. The cultural connection between species is integral to environmental connection. * RealTime *Is Birdsong Music?, a ground-breaking study of the songs of the pied butcherbird, is intellectually engaging and also very entertaining as a fieldwork memoir. * The Music Trust *"This book, for me, was a revelation: so much careful, vivid observation and description from all over Australia. It shows our bird life to be unique, talented, and above all, surprising. Music to my eyes." * ABC-Radio National *Table of ContentsForeword by Philip Kitcher1. An Outback Epiphany2. Songbird Studies3. The Nature of Transcription and the Transcription of Nature4. Notes and Calls: A Taste for Diversity5. Song Development: A Taste for Complexity6. Musicality and the Art of Song: A Taste for Beauty7. Border Conflicts at Music's Definition8. Facts to Suit Theories9. Too Many Theories and Not Enough Birdsong10. Songbirds as Colleagues and ContemporariesAcknowledgementsList of AbbreviationsGlossaryNotation and Supplement ConventionsBibliographyIndex

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewIs Birdsong Music? is an absorbing and delightfully written field diary as much as it is a technical analysis of sound and a philosophical discussion of the concept of music . . . Hollis Taylor's book encourages us to recognise the importance and interconnectedness of all species. She challenges the dominant view that humans represent the pinnacle of all life and can act independently of the environment. The cultural connection between species is integral to environmental connection. * RealTime *Is Birdsong Music?, a ground-breaking study of the songs of the pied butcherbird, is intellectually engaging and also very entertaining as a fieldwork memoir. * The Music Trust *"This book, for me, was a revelation: so much careful, vivid observation and description from all over Australia. It shows our bird life to be unique, talented, and above all, surprising. Music to my eyes." * ABC-Radio National *Table of ContentsForeword by Philip Kitcher1. An Outback Epiphany2. Songbird Studies3. The Nature of Transcription and the Transcription of Nature4. Notes and Calls: A Taste for Diversity5. Song Development: A Taste for Complexity6. Musicality and the Art of Song: A Taste for Beauty7. Border Conflicts at Music's Definition8. Facts to Suit Theories9. Too Many Theories and Not Enough Birdsong10. Songbirds as Colleagues and ContemporariesAcknowledgementsList of AbbreviationsGlossaryNotation and Supplement ConventionsBibliographyIndex

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Book SynopsisThe first authoritative biography of one of the 20th century’s foremost ornithologists, whose 1934 Field Guide to the Birds was one of the two foundational books that launched the environmental movement.Trade ReviewA product of intense research, this deep study of a brilliant, influential man is highly recommended. -- Henry T. Armistead * Library Journal *Table of Contents Preface Acknowledgments Part One: Jamestown, New York (1908-1926) Part Two: New York City and Boston (1926-1934) Part Three: The Field Guide, First Edition (1934) Part Four: New York City (1934-1942) Part Five: Washington, D.C. (1942-1953) Part Six: Old Lyme, Connecticut (1954-1974) Part Seven: Old Lyme (1974-1980) Part Eight: Old Lyme (1980-1996) Notes Works Cited Index

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Book SynopsisThe autobiography of a major twentieth century ornithologist.Table of Contents Preface The Beginnings Oregon Illinois Texas West Virginia Sheldrake Springs, New York West Virginia Again Pittsburgh World War I, Bethany, And Pittsburgh Again Labrador Pittsburgh Once More James Bay Florida Harrisburg The East Coast Of Hudson Bay Harrisburg Again The Far North Epilogue: Cornell University

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Book SynopsisExamines the development and management of refuges in the wintering range of migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway from Mexico to AlaskaTrade Review"Wilson puts the biological problems within the context of a long history of competing land-use interests, water entitlements, and overlapping mandates of powerful federal agencies. . . . This is a very clearly written book that deals concisely with a hundred years' worth of complex confrontations and conflicts. . ." -- Gary Kaiser * BC Studies *“The ultimate value of this book lies in its empathetic illumination of the complexities of human-environment relationships, thoroughly documenting how they have been manipulated over time yet also seeking clarity and inspiration for the future. I highly recommend it to anyone who cares for the past, present, and future of the American West. -- Craig S. Revels * Journal of Historical Geography *"This thoughtful and engaging book blends agricultural history, environmental history, ecology, and historical geography into a compelling narrative that traces the co-evolution of waterfowl management and irrigated agriculture . . . points to how agricultural historians can and should make room for wild nature." -- Mathew Klingle * Agricultural Histor *"Whether readers' partiality tends toward politics, water management, agriculture, wildlife conservation, or history, all will find something of interest and hopefully learn from the past how to better manage these varied and valuable resources in the future." -- James C. Bartonek * Oregon Historical Quarterly *". . . essential reading for all who are interested in the protection of wildlife that must survive within intensely transformed landscapes." -- Philip Garone * Environmental History *"In Seeking Refuge, Wilson seamlessly fuses geography and cultural, political, and environmental issues related to land use patterns and wetland management. . . . [T]he content is easy to understand, not overly technical, and presented in a logical chronological progression. While this is appropriate for undergraduate and graduate students, it is also useful for anyone with an interest in migratory birds and wetland management as well as those interested in US environmental issues and environmental history." * Choice *"Seeking Refuge approaches the region at several scales simultaneously. As a result, Wilson provides a rich analysis of land and water use; waterfowl migration and conservation; biologists, wildlife agents, and hunters; and the transformation of multiple landscapes. His thoughtful study also enhances our appreciation of the remarkably resilient birds, whose semiannual migrations continue to lift our spirits." * Science *"This concise, understated, well-crafted work allows readers to reach their own conclusions…. Wilson suggests that wildlife habitat cannot truly be restored to its original state. Like it or not, when we try to save nature we inevitably change it. This is true on the planetary scale and the local scale. By looking to the past, Wilson helps us peer into the future, as we try to imagine the consequences of our efforts and proposals to engineer our way out of the latest environmental crisis." * American Scientist *"For anyone who has followed the ongoing disputes on water allocations in the Upper Klamath Basin, Seeking Refuge… is a book to devour." * Klamath Basin Herald and News *"This compelling story of action and reaction that saved numerous species of migratory ducks and geese is detailed and easy to read." * Wildlife Activist *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction 1. The Wetland Archipelago 2. Elusive Sanctuaries 3. Places in the Grid 4. Duck Farms 5. Refuges in Conflict Epilogue Citation Abbreviations Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisThe Northern California coast - from Monterey County to the Oregon border - is home to some of the richest avian habitats on the North American continent. This book provides a comprehensive ecological overview of this extensive and diverse region.Trade Review"A handy, user-friendly reference ... Produced with real knowledge, care and affection, this guide serves as a wonderful companion." -- Laura Herrell American Reference Books Annual (ARBA)Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments INTRODUCTION Boundaries Climate Habitats Taxonomy: Subspecies, Species, and Superspecies Plumage of Birds Dimorphism and Monomorphism Seasons and Migration Ethics of Birding FAMILY AND SPECIES ACCOUNTS Ducks, Geese, and Swans Loons Grebes Albatross Shearwaters and Fulmars Storm-Petrels Cormorants and Pelicans Herons, Egrets, Bitterns, and Ibis Vultures, Ospreys, Kites, Eagles, and Hawks Rails, Gallinules, and Coots Shorebirds Skuas and Jaegers Alcids Gulls and Terns Gallinaceous Birds Pigeons and Doves Owls Swifts Kingfishers Woodpeckers Falcons Perching Birds (Passerines) BIRDING OPPORTUNITIES AND ROADSIDE NATURE CENTERS Seasonal Occurrence Charts Glossary References Index

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Book SynopsisAlongside Rosamond Purcell's stunning photographs, Linnea Hall and René Corado offer an engaging history of egg collecting, the provenance of the specimens in the photographs, and the biology, conservation, and ecology of the birds that produced them.Trade ReviewWhat kind of genius is Rosamond Purcell? Is she an artist? A scholar? A documentarian? A living cabinet of wonders? Her originality defies category, as does her newest triumph, Egg & Nest. Crack its shell. -- Jonathan Safran FoerRosamond Purcell is one of the great photographers. She has captured the history of objects by photographing them in romantic decline-- books scourged by worms, petrified food-stuffs, biological specimens gone wrong, the inexorable entropic winding down of everything. Egg & Nest is yet another example of her ability to make the ordinary extraordinary: Collecting people, collecting things, collecting people collecting things and creating something new and wonderful. In this collection of eggs and nests made of random bric-a-brac, cassette tape, and wire, we're invited to meditate on oology as ontology, ontology as oology, and the paradox of museums as a lifeless record of life. Rosamond Purcell has magnificently returned to her most fascinating obsession, the repurposing of life as the purpose of life. -- Errol Morris[Purcell's] work is concerned with the magic in ordinary objects, but also the aesthetics of conservation and collection, as many of her images of objects from natural-history museums demonstrate. Purcell's latest project, a collection of photographs taken at the Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology, in California, is a more serene and stately work, showcasing the variety of the avian world. -- Andrea Walker * New Yorker blog *[A] fascinating book...While this volume is not an art book per se, it is a lively history of egg collecting, or oology...The photographs, both those taken under laboratory conditions and those taken in the wild, are extraordinary, showing the variety of egg sizes, shapes, patterns, and textures: Mottled blue-gray Emu eggs look like fine-grained granite, while the vigorous dark brown markings of the glossy, tawny-colored eggs of the Northern Jacana of Mexico suggest Easter eggs decorated by Jackson Pollock. Equally compelling are Purcell's photographs of birds' nests, beautifully lit and formed of all sorts of materials: A raven's nest of twigs is lined with cotton batting for comfort. A Guatemalan nest of the Banded Wren looks like a crown of thorns--those thorns offering defense from predators. The miniscule vegetable-down nest of an Anna's Hummingbird collected in Santa Monica, California, in 1903 is ingeniously woven around the glass insulator of a telegraph line. All in all, there is considerable beauty and wonderment in this book. * The Magazine Antiques *Photographer Rosamond Purcell has made a career out of creating intriguing images of decaying objects... Her new book, Egg and Nest, focuses on one of the world's premier collections of bird eggs and nests, located at the Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology, near Los Angeles. Nests are held together with whatever materials the birds could find: spider webs, fishing line, mud, and condensed saliva. Eggs, too, are varied: green, blue, speckled, covered by a swirl of markings. -- Jan Gardner * Boston Globe *Purcell uses her camera to transform the everyday ordinary into something extraordinary. She captures the diverse beauty, quirkiness and allure of eggs and the remarkable resourcefulness of birds, focusing on the intricacy of nests and the aesthetic perfection of bird eggs. The rich colors, lighting and textures make her photographs of eggs, nests and birds look three dimensional, as though the eggs could easily fall out of one of the photographs, as if falling from a nest. -- Kurt Shaw * Pittsburgh Tribune Review *If you are wondering why anyone would spend a life in a pursuit as eccentric as collecting eggs and nests, Ms. Purcell's work will tell you. She selected a range of specimens, eggs brightly colored and plain, and nests made conventionally of twigs or of materials as bizarre as nails. Then she photographed them in natural light. Her luminous results explain without words why people have been collecting eggs and nests for centuries. -- Cornelia Dean * New York Times *[Purcell's] work is concerned with the magic in ordinary objects, but also the aesthetics of conservation and collection, as many of her images of objects from natural-history museums demonstrate. Purcell's latest project, a collection of photographs taken at the Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology, in California, is a more serene and stately work, showcasing the variety of the avian world. -- Andrea Walker * New Yorker blog *[A] fascinating book...While this volume is not an art book per se, it is a lively history of egg collecting, or oology...The photographs, both those taken under laboratory conditions and those taken in the wild, are extraordinary, showing the variety of egg sizes, shapes, patterns, and textures: Mottled blue-gray Emu eggs look like fine-grained granite, while the vigorous dark brown markings of the glossy, tawny-colored eggs of the Northern Jacana of Mexico suggest Easter eggs decorated by Jackson Pollock. Equally compelling are Purcell's photographs of birds' nests, beautifully lit and formed of all sorts of materials: A raven's nest of twigs is lined with cotton batting for comfort. A Guatemalan nest of the Banded Wren looks like a crown of thorns--those thorns offering defense from predators. The miniscule vegetable-down nest of an Anna's Hummingbird collected in Santa Monica, California, in 1903 is ingeniously woven around the glass insulator of a telegraph line. All in all, there is considerable beauty and wonderment in this book. * The Magazine Antiques *Photographer Rosamond Purcell has made a career out of creating intriguing images of decaying objects... Her new book, Egg and Nest, focuses on one of the world's premier collections of bird eggs and nests, located at the Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology, near Los Angeles. Nests are held together with whatever materials the birds could find: spider webs, fishing line, mud, and condensed saliva. Eggs, too, are varied: green, blue, speckled, covered by a swirl of markings. -- Jan Gardner * Boston Globe *Purcell uses her camera to transform the everyday ordinary into something extraordinary. She captures the diverse beauty, quirkiness and allure of eggs and the remarkable resourcefulness of birds, focusing on the intricacy of nests and the aesthetic perfection of bird eggs. The rich colors, lighting and textures make her photographs of eggs, nests and birds look three dimensional, as though the eggs could easily fall out of one of the photographs, as if falling from a nest. -- Kurt Shaw * Pittsburgh Tribune Review *If you are wondering why anyone would spend a life in a pursuit as eccentric as collecting eggs and nests, Ms. Purcell's work will tell you. She selected a range of specimens, eggs brightly colored and plain, and nests made conventionally of twigs or of materials as bizarre as nails. Then she photographed them in natural light. Her luminous results explain without words why people have been collecting eggs and nests for centuries. -- Cornelia Dean * New York Times *Beautiful...Egg & Nest reminds the reader of the civilized, tactile, sensual and emotive pleasures of holding a book in hand as opposed to reading from a glowing light box. Printed in Italy, it combines fabulous image reproduction--each page a magic revelation--with informative and insightful text, Purcell being as adept with words as with a lens. -- Mary Thomas * Pittsburgh-Post Gazette *Spend some time with Rosamond Purcell's enthralling photographs in Egg & Nest, and you might be tempted to become an oologist. Oology is not the science of oohs and ahs but the practice, frowned on in the civilized world, of collecting rare eggs and nests. Most of the photographs were taken at the Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology in Camarillo, Calif., which combines the collections of many Victorian bird enthusiasts. There's a woodpecker's nest in the shape of a wooden shoe, a grackle's nest woven of lace and audiotape, and a nest from Wasilla, Alaska, lined with feathers and fur. Unbearably poignant is a photograph of Martha, the last passenger pigeon, who died in the Cincinnati Zoo on Sept. 1, 1914. You'll even find a definitive answer to the age-old conundrum about the chicken or the egg. Hint: Ex ovo omnia. -- Christopher Benfey * Slate *Purcell doesn't just delve into the history of egg obsession. She captures the variety and beauty of eggs and nests in beautiful photographs. Unless you're an ornithologist, you probably don't have a wide frame of reference for the sheer diversity of eggs. From the ultra glossy, Easter eggs of the Tinamou to the brown, blue and purple mottled eggs of the Chuck-Will's-Widow to the pyriform eggs of the Common Murres, pear-shaped to help prevent the eggs from rolling down the cliffs on which their nest perch, the assortment from page to page is stunning. * Curious Expeditions *Anyone who loves birds, nature, or simply exquisite colors and shapes will find this compendium a revelation. Rosamond Purcell's sumptuous photographs are accompanied by a fascinating history of man's obsession with ornithology. * Martha Stewart Living *Transcendent in their beauty, mysterious, softly luminous, fragile yet potent, birds' eggs are highlighted in numerous photos in this thoughtfully assembled volume...This reviewer is grateful for this book and for the generations of work that have gone into building collections like this one. -- S. Hammer * Choice *This magnificently illustrated volume provides readers with a fascinating glimpse into the hidden world of wild bird eggs and nests...The book is alternately enlightening and uplifting, and sobering and alarming, as one reviews the preserved remains of what was and what quite literally might have been. One thing is clear upon turning the final page of Egg & Nest: Only eternal vigilance will protect what little of nature's splendor remains in this world. -- John A. Murray * Bloomsbury *The book consists of 10 groups of photographs, rendered in natural light in simple, striking settings...In [one] image, red-winged blackbird eggs rest on squares of cotton wool, their many shades of sky blue recalling the diversity possible within one species. Egg and Nest subtly suggests that such variety deserves our care: for the artifacts and, crucially, for their present-day relatives. -- Anna Lena Phillips * American Scientist *

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Book SynopsisA photographic guide to the birds of eastern North America. It presents key identification features of each bird. It covers entire eastern half of mainland North America and the arctic and subarctic territorial islands of the US and Canada.Trade ReviewOne of Joel Lerner's (The Washington Post) The Year's Best Gardening Books "The ultimate handbook to accompany you in the field or while bird watching at home... [A]n excellent visual reference for the identification of birds."--Joel Lerner, Washington Post "Brian Small and co-author Paul Sterry have taken the photo-based field guide to a new level. Their new books are beautifully designed and well written. Photos are tack-sharp, and tightly cropped, giving close-up views of each bird."--Matt Mendenhall, Birder's World "Whether you are a birding fanatic or someone who enjoys looking in their backyard to see what shows up, there is a new bird guide that will fill your need... With great photos of more than 500 species, this is a wonderful photographic guide making identification of birds that much easier. Both the Eastern and Western versions are great gift ideas."--Ken Moran, New York Post "The large, excellent photos, combined with the overall design, make this probably the most attractive general field guide I've seen... This is the first field guide that I would recommend to bird photography aficionados solely on the merit of the pictures, irrespective of its value as a field guide. Finally, the exceptional, large photographs make these an attractive primary field guide option for new and burgeoning birders."--Grant McCreary, Birder's Library "These guides will be most useful for intermediate level birders."--Ian Paulsen, Birdbooker Report "Excellent state-of-the art digital photos and comprehensive, up-to-date data on North American birds... Comparable guides include Ted Floyd's Smithsonian Field Guide to the Birds of North America and Edward Brinkley's National Wildlife Federation (NWF) Field Guide to Birds of North America. All three titles are excellent. However, the Sterry-Small guide's larger photos aid identification and highlight variable plumage. Corner insets identify groups of birds for easier browsing. Birders will love the portability, excellent photography, habitat, and conservation information."--Sally Bickley, Library Journal "This pair of photographic guides provides superb quality photographic images which are well up to the best of modern standards. If your American photo-guides are a few years old, now is the time to update them. The text is surprisingly detailed and concisely covers all plumages, as well as 'Status and Habitat,' 'Voice,' and 'Observation tips,' and the distribution maps are detailed and clear. These are now the best photographic guides for North America and exceptional value-for-money too."--Steve Gantlett, Birding World "Flat-out gorgeous. We see the birds standing, swimming and in flight. There's the usual field buide-style information--maps of their range, what they sound like, etc.--but this book seems to make things uniquely clear."--Sandy Bauers, Philadelphia Inquirer "Birds of Eastern North America: A Photographic Guide and Birds of Western North America: A Photographic Guide should be a welcome addition to the libraries of serious birders as well as those who enjoy birdwatching only from their own backyard feeders... I recommend both books."--Brad Sylvester, Manchester Bird Watching Examiner "The photos in these books are large, crisp and clear... They are durable field guides that easily slip into a backpack or even a large pocket in an overcoat, but their pictures are good enough to be a coffee table book... Of all the various field guides I have ever seen, these ... are by far the best."--James Swan, ESPNOutdoors.com "Outstanding... The photos are of such superb detail you expect them to fly off the pages."--Bill Cochran, Roanoke Times "Stunning. This was the first word that came to mind upon cracking open these new guides... The photography alone is worth owning both Eastern and Western editions. Even so, the accompanying text is fantastic too."--Eddie Callaway, Birdfreak.com "The guides are, in a word, gorgeous--the photos are crisp (the latest digital technology captures rich detail) and the page layout is superb."--Fannie Peczenik, Pittsburgh Bird Watching Examiner "Paul Sterry and Brian Small have created books with large, superior photos placed on pages designed to be lively and interesting. The text accompanying each species is three or four times as long as what you find in most ID books. It's pertinent and sharply written."--Jim Williams, Minneapolis Star Tribune "I was immediately captivated by the stunning photographs... This one's a keeper."--George Smith, Down East.com "[Birds of Eastern North America] uses 1,118 exceptional color photographs to set it apart from the many other field guides in book stores. And somehow the designer managed to increase the image size so that every species is clearly and vibrantly depicted. Many of the smaller species appear at almost life size. This guide should appeal to beginning and experienced birders alike."--Scott Shalaway, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette "The Sterry-Small guides will no doubt set new benchmarks for photo quality and precise reproduction. Inset photos cover seasonal and gender variations in plumage, picture birds in flight or show groups of birds for easier identification. Sterry's well-organized descriptions offer bird-spotting tips and information on habitat, feeding styles and conservation status. Range maps compile the latest data from the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology."--Valerie Sudol, New Jersey Newsroom "A lot of clever thought went into the design of this new birding guide, and you'll find it easy to use plus especially helpful and simply jam-packed with lots of useful information."--James Drake, Southern Maryland Newspapers "A fine pair of guides for North America... Small's photos are big, bright, and tack-sharp... Sterry's generous accounts supplement the accompanying photographs well... worthwhile acquisitions for field guide consumers and completists alike."--Mike Bergin, 10,000 Birds "Informative and accessible text, up-to-date maps, and stunning color photographs. Images have been carefully selected to convey both the sheer beauty and the key identification features of each bird, and many of the photos are larger than those found in most other guides."--OSNA Birds "I never used to be very keen on photographic field guides for birds until I perused these two volumes... An excellent volume set for the North American birder, complete with lavish photos larger than those seen in other field guides, useful, up-to-date range maps and an easy-to-use format."--David Bird, Montreal Gazette "The Sterry/Small guides are an innovative, useful addition to the arsenal of tools available to help us improve our birding skills. These outstanding guides deserve a place in your pocket, bookshelf, nightstand and bathroom."--Wayne Mones, Audubon Magazine web site "The Sterry and Small field guide is good in that the photographs, which are outstanding, are quite large for a book small enough to fit into a big pocket. Colored bars with family names across the top of each page make it quick and easy to locate the warblers, wrens, etc. Range maps include all of North America, not just the eastern region. Status, habitat and observation tips are given for each species."--Marcia Davis, Knoxville News Sentinel "Deserve a perch in your birding library. Birds of Western North America and its companion guide Birds of Eastern North America are photographic field guides, with clear, well-defined full-color photos for ease of identification."--David Buchanan, Grand Junctions Sentinel "Sterry and Small have produced what I believe is the finest photographic field guide of eastern birds... The photographs in this guide are crisp, informative and, in many cases, stunning."--Herb Wilson, Portland Press Herald "Compact and modestly priced, Birds of Eastern North America is a beautiful field guide (in fact, one of the best I've seen) and the top-notch photos are accompanied by oodles of informative facts and figures about the species illustrated."--Ron Tott, The Travel Editor "Fabulous photographic field guides... Birds of Eastern North America: A Photographic Guide, and its companion piece Birds of Western North America, are a tremendous addition to any library of bird identification literature... Even those accustomed to an artist's illustration rather than photography to highlight identification features will find themselves reaching for these volumes time after time to confirm a field sighting of a bird in its natural habitat."--Birding Business "Many of the more recent field guides to birds are illustrated with high-quality photographs. The present offerings, produced by well-respected authors/photographers Sterry and Small, are additional fine examples... They are ... beautiful, exceptionally well-produced volumes that will be found in most libraries with comprehensive ornithological holdings and on the shelves of many birders."--Choice "I highly recommend these books as field guides for intermediate birders ... and as home study guides for beginners and armchair naturalists. Of course every avid birders will want these guides as well."--Dan Kunkle, Wildlife Activist "These indispensable guides will quickly become the preferred photographic guides for new and experienced birders alike. The clear layout will help novices easily identify the birds they see, while the superb photographs will help seasoned birders confirm identifications."--Adventure Sports Outdoors "With these volumes, we've at last found photographic guides that are as easy to identify birds from as I.D. books that feature paintings... [These] photographic guides aren't pocket size, but they're small enough that we'll carry them in the car and, with binoculars, in a pack on a serious birding outing. We expect to spend some enjoyable winter evenings browsing through them, enjoying the superb photos, and readable text, looking up old friends and preparing to meet new ones."--Bob and Linda Steiner, The Derrick "The most impressive feature of this field guide is the photography. Each species account contains one to several photographs: most are large and sharp and clearly illustrate useful details for identification... It would make a nice addition to any collection of bird guides, if nothing else for the beautiful photographs."--Amber N. Wiewel, Iowa Bird Life "These guides are certainly worthy as a secondary field guide and photographic reference. No question, they are certainly the best photographic guides currently available."--Alan Knue, South Dakota Bird Notes "Sterry and Small have created the best photograph based field guides I have seen for North American birds."--Michael J. Andersen, Quarterly Review of Biology "[T]hese [two] books do have truly wonderful photographs and written descriptions that are useful in identifying and differentiating species. The guides could be especially useful to the casual birder. If you consider the cost of the paperback edition, they are an attractive, affordable addition to one's library."--Clayton M. White, Western North American Naturalist "With the proliferation of options, choosing a good field guide is increasingly a question of personal preference. Most of my casual birder friends prefer photographic guides; most keen birders seem to prefer traditional guides with paintings. I would recommend this book for novice birders and for those wanting to supplement a more traditional guide."--Mark Gawn, Canadian Field-Naturalist "The large, well-composed and well-edited photographs, combined with good text and range maps, may very well place these as the top photographic guides for North America."--Nathan Hentze, Discovery "Exceptionally well done. Double-page layouts of text and maps on the left and digitally enhanced photos of the matching birds on the right make these guides easy to use in the field."--John Riutta, Bird Watcher's Digest "Birds of Western North America and the Birds of Eastern North America are quite simply the most lavishly illustrated photographic guides to date of North American avifauna. Because of that fact, perhaps amateur and advanced birders will not object to procuring both books together when exploring such birding hot spots as the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas and elsewhere."--Gene Wilhelm, Pennsylvania Birds

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"An excellent new photographic field guide... The most comprehensive and authoritative field guide to the birds of the region."--Birding Ecuador blog "What is incredible is that even the rarest and most difficult birds are depicted with high-resolution photos... This book is much more than a compilation of high quality photographs--it is a true field guide. This is not surprising since the two authors are both leading experts on Ecuador's birds, and Nick Athanas is a leading bird guide for Tropical Birding."--Frank Lambert, Birder's LibraryTable of ContentsINTRODUCTION 7 Region Covered 9 Range Maps 9 Format of the Species Accounts 11 Taxonomy 11 Conservation 12 Habitats 13 Elevational Zones 19 Bird Topography 20 SPECIES ACCOUNTS 23 Tinamous 24 Guans, Chachalacas, Curassows, and Screamer 26 New-World Quails, Whistling-Ducks 30 Ducks 30 Grebes 36 Storks 36 Albatrosses 38 Petrels and Shearwaters 38 Storm-petrels 38 Tropicbirds 40 Flamingos 40 Ibises and Spoonbills 40 Herons, Bitterns, and Egrets 42 Frigatebirds 48 Pelicans 48 Boobies 50 Anhinga 54 Cormorants 54 Vultures 56 Osprey 58 Kites, Hawks, and Eagles 58 Falcons and Caracaras 82 Rails, Gallinules, and Coots 90 Limpkin 96 Stilts 96 Oystercatchers 96 Sunbittern 96 Thick-knees 96 Jacanas 98 Lapwings and Plovers 98 Seedsnipes 102 Snipes, Sandpipers, and Related Shorebirds 102 Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers 114 Pigeons and Doves 124 Parakeets, Parrots, and Macaws 132 Cuckoos and Anis 140 Owls 144 Nighthawks and Nightjars 152 Potoos 156 Oilbird 156 Swifts 158 Hummingbirds 162 Quetzals and Trogons 196 Kingfishers 202 Motmots 204 Jacamars 204 Puffbirds 204 New World Barbets 208 Toucan Barbet 208 Aracaris and Toucans 210 Woodpeckers 214 Ovenbirds (Furnariids) and Woodcreepers 222 Antbirds 242 Antthrushes 254 Antpittas 256 Tapaculos 260 Crescentchest 260 Tyrant Flycatchers 264 Tityras and Becards 302 Sapayoa 306 Cotingas and Fruiteaters 308 Pihas 314 Mourners 314 Manakins 316 Schiffornis 318 Peppershrikes and Vireos 320 Greenlets, Gnatcatchers, and Gnatwrens 322 Mockingbirds 324 Jays 324 Dippers 324 Martins and Swallows 326 Wrens 332 Solitaires and Thrushes 338 Euphonias and Chlorophonias 344 Siskins 348 Goldfinches and Pipits 350 New World Warblers 350 Oropendolas, Orioles, and Blackbirds 360 Bush-tanagers (Chlorospinguses) 366 Piranga Tanagers 368 Tanagers 370 Bananaquit 386 Dacnises 390 Honeycreepers 392 Hemispinguses 394 Tit-like Dacnis 394 Conebills 396 Flowerpiercers 396 Sparrows 400 Chestnut Munia 400 Brush-finches 402 Tanager Finch 406 Plushcap 406 Sierra-finches 408 Slaty Finch 408 Sicalis Finches 410 Crimson-breasted Finch 410 Grassquits 412 Warbling-finches 412 Seed-finches and Seedeaters 414 Grosbeaks 420 Saltators 422 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 424 APPENDIX I: SPECIES NOT INCLUDED 425 APPENDIX II: PHOTOGRAPHER CREDITS 428 GLOSSARY 431 SPECIES INDEX (ENGLISH AND SCIENTIFIC NAMES) 434

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Book SynopsisIncludes four major national parks - Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, Mount Longonot, and Hell's Gate - as well as smaller outstanding wildlife areas. This book looks at the more than 300 bird species most likely to be encountered on safari in this world-famous region, from Lake Magadi in the south to Lake Baringo in the north.Trade Review"I wish I had the opportunity to have this book in my bag on my trip to this bird paradise some years ago. It would certainly have made identification much easier. The layout of the photographic guide is so helpful."--Derek Moore, Derek Bird Brain "Ideal for the traveler on safari visiting the Rift Valley's national parks, such as Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, Mount Longonot, and Hell's Gate. The value of a book like the Birds of Kenya's Rift Valley is that it lends itself to easy interpretation and use by those who are interested in birdwatching, those who are interested in conservation, and those who care about biodiversity in general."--Gabriel Thoumi, Mongabay.com "Kennedy's new book would serve most safari goers well in Kenya's Rift Valley, and its great photos make it a worthy addition to any birder's bookshelf."--Robert F. Foster, Canadian Field-Naturalist "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 geography of Kenya's Rift Valley 13 Lakes and marsh 14 Up in the air 16 Birds of prey 17 Grassland and open areas 18 Woodland, scrub & garden 20 Nightbirds 22 Maps of the Rift Valley 23 BIRDS OF LAKE AND MARSH Pelicans - Great White and Pink-backed Pelicans 26 Darter and cormorants - African Darter and Reed and Great Cormorants 28 Egrets - Yellow-billed, Little and Great White Egrets 30 Small herons - Cattle Egret and Squacco and Striated Herons 32 Grey herons - Black-crowned Night-heron and Grey and Black-headed Herons 34 Dark herons and Hamerkop - Goliath and Purple Herons and Hamerkop 36 Dark storks - Abdim's, Black and African Open-billed Storks 38 White storks - Saddle-billed, White and Yellow-billed Storks 40 Spoonbill and Marabou - African Spoonbill and Marabou Stork 42 Flamingos - Greater and Lesser Flamingos 44 Ibises - Sacred, Glossy and Hadada Ibises 46 Crane and whistling ducks - Grey Crowned Crane and Fulvous and White-faced Whistling Ducks 48 Geese - Spur-winged and Egyptian Goose and Knob-billed Duck 50 Ducks: 1 - Cape, Hottentot and Red-billed Teal 52 Ducks: 2 - Southern Pochard, Northern Shoveler and Yellow-billed Duck 54 Grebe, coot and moorhen - Little Grebe, Red-knobbed Coot and Common Moorhen 56 Gallinule, crake and jacana - Purple Swamphen, Black Crake and African Jacana 58 Ruff, painted-snipe and snipe - Ruff, Greater Painted-snipe and Common Snipe 60 Avocet, stilt and godwit - Pied Avocet, Black-winged Stilt and Black-tailed Godwit 62 Thick-knees - Spotted, Water and Senegal Thick-knees 64 Small plovers - Chestnut-banded, Three-banded, Kittlitz's and Common Ringed Plovers 66 Sandpipers - Wood, Common and Green Sandpipers 68 Waders - Little Stint, Common Greenshank and Marsh Sandpiper 70 Plovers - Blacksmith, Crowned and Spur-winged Plovers 72 Plover and gull - African Wattled Plover and Grey-headed Gull 74 Terns - White-winged Black, Gull-billed and Whiskered Terns 76 Kingfishers - Malachite, Giant and Pied Kingfishers 78 Wagtails - Yellow, Mountain and African Pied Wagtails 80 UP IN THE AIR Dark-rumped swifts - Mottled, African Palm, Alpine, Common and Nyanza Swifts 82 White-rumped swifts - Little, Horus and White-rumped Swifts 84 Resident swallows - Mosque , Red-rumped, Lesser Striped and Wire-tailed Swallows 86 Swallows and martins - Barn Swallow and Plain, Banded and Rock Martins 88 BIRD OF PREY Vultures - Ruppell's, White-backed, Hooded and Lappet-faced Vultures 90 Vultures in flight - all species for comparison plus Verreaux's Eagle 92 Large pied eagles and buzzard - Martial and African Fish Eagles and Augur Buzzard 94 Large dark eagles - Verreaux's, Steppe and Tawny Eagles 96 Medium-sized brown raptors - Black Kite, Common Buzzard and Long-crested Eagle 98 Raptors in flight - all large species for comparison 100 Harriers - Pallid, Montagu's and Western Marsh Harriers 102 Goshawk, Bateleur and Harrier Hawk - Dark Chanting Goshawk, Bateleur and African Harrier Hawk 104 Small pale raptors - Gabar Goshawk, - African Black-shouldered Kite and Pygmy Falcon 106 Falcons - Eurasian Hobby, Lanner Falcon and Common Kestrel 108 BIRDS OF GRASSLAND AND OPEN AREAS Ostrich and Southern Ground Hornbill - Ostrich and Southern Ground Hornbill 110 Bustard and gamebirds - Black-bellied Bustard, Yellow-necked Spurfowl and Helmeted Guineafowl 112 Coursers and plover - Heuglin's and Temminck's Coursers and Black-headed Plover 114 Larks - Rufous-naped, Red-capped and Pink-breasted Larks 116 Lark, pipit and longclaw - Fischer's Sparrow Lark, Grassland Pipit and Yellow-throated Longclaw 118 Resident chats - Northern Anteater Chat and Capped and Abyssinian Wheatears 120 Migrant chats - Northern and Pied Wheatears and Whinchat 122 Crows - Cape Rook, Pied Crow and Fan-tailed Raven 124 Widowbirds - Long-tailed and Red-collared Widowbirds 126 Widowbird and bishops - Jackson's Widowbird and Northern Red and Yellow Bishops 128 Cisticolas and Quailfinch - Winding, Stout and Desert Cisticolas and African Quailfinch 130 BIRDS OF WOODS, SCRUB AND GARDEN Francolins - Scaly, Crested and Hildebrandt's Francolins 132 Pigeons and doves - Laughing Dove and Speckled and African Olive Pigeons 134 'Collared' doves - African Mourning, Red-eyed and Ring-necked Doves 136 Namaqua and wood doves - Namaqua and Blue-spotted and Emerald-spotted Wood Doves 138 Green pigeon and parrots - African Green Pigeon, Meyer's Parrot and hybrid lovebird 140 Large cuckoos and relatives - Red-chested Cuckoo, White-browed Coucal and White-bellied Go-away-bird 142 BIRDS OF WOODLAND, SCRUB AND GARDEN (continued) Green cuckoos and wood-hoopoe - Klaas's and Diederik Cuckoos and Green Wood-hoopoe 144 Hoopoe and mousebirds - Hoopoe and Blue-naped and Speckled Mousebirds 146 Kingfishers - Striped, Woodland and Grey-headed Kingfishers 148 Bee-eaters: 1 - White-throated, Blue-cheeked and Eurasian Bee-eaters 150 Bee-eaters: 2 - White-fronted, Cinnamon-chested and Little Bee-eaters 152 Rollers - Rufous-crowned, Lilac-breasted and Eurasian Rollers 154 Hornbills: 1 - Von der Decken's, Jackson's and Red-billed Hornbills 156 Hornbills: 2 - Hemprich's, Eastern Yellow-billed and African Grey Hornbills 158 Barbets: 1 - Red-and-yellow, D'Arnaud's and Red-fronted Barbets 160 Barbets: 2 - White-headed and Spot-flanked Barbets and Red-fronted Tinkerbird 162 Honeyguides and woodpecker - Lesser and Greater Honeyguides and African Grey Woodpecker 164 Woodpeckers - Nubian, Cardinal and Bearded Woodpeckers 166 Babblers - Black-lored, Arrow-marked and Brown Babblers and Rufous Chatterer 168 Bulbul, thrush and scrub robin - Common Bulbul, Spotted Palm Thrush and White-browed Scrub Robin 170 Colourful chats - Common and Little Rock Thrushes and Mocking Cliff Chat 172 Thrush and robin chats - Olive Thrush and White-browed and Cape Robin Chats 174 Tchagras and Brubru - Brown-crowned and Three-streaked Tchagras and Brubru 176 White-headed 'shrikes' - Grey-crested and White Helmetshrikes and Northern White-crowned Shrike 178 Shrikes - Red-backed Shrike and Grey-backed and Common Fiscals 180 Oriole and bushshrikes - Black-headed Oriole and Grey-headed and Sulphur-breasted Bushshrike 182 Cuckooshrike, boubou and puffback - Black Cuckooshrike, Tropical Boubou and Black-backed Puffback 184 Black birds of woodland edge - Common Drongo, Slate-coloured Boubou and Northern Black Flycatcher 186 Attractive flycatchers of woods and gardens - White-eyed Slaty and African Paradise Flycatchers 188 Nondescript flycatchers - Spotted, Pale and African Grey Flycatchers 190 Warblers and prinia - Rattling Cisticola, Grey Wren Warbler and Tawny-flanked Prinia 192 Green warblers - Grey-backed Camaroptera, Yellow-breasted Apalis and Grey-capped Warbler 194 Crombec and warblers - Northern Crombec and Red-fronted and Buff-bellied Warblers 196 Batis, tit and white-eye - Chin-spot Batis, White-bellied Tit and African Yellow White-eye 198 Starlings and oxpecker - Ruppell's and Wattled Starlings and Red-billed Oxpecker 200 Starlings - Greater Blue-eared, Red-winged and Bristle-crowned Starlings 202 Brightly coloured starlings - Superb, Hildebrandt's and Violet-backed Starlings 204 Sunbirds: 1 - Variable, Eastern Violet-backed, and Collared Sunbirds 206 Sunbirds: 2 - Marico, Scarlet-chested and Amethyst Sunbirds 208 Long-tailed sunbirds - Bronze, Tacazze and Beautiful Sunbirds 210 Sparrows - House, Kenya Rufous and Grey-headed Sparrows 212 Petronia and small brown weavers - Yellow-spotted Petronia and Speckle-fronted and Grey-capped Social Weavers 214 Buffalo and sparrow weavers - White-billed and White-headed Buffalo Weavers and White-browed Sparrow Weaver 216 Yellow weavers: 1 - Village , Speke's and Lesser Masked Weavers 218 Yellow weavers: 2 - Northern Masked, Little and Golden-backed Weavers 220 Yellow weavers: 3 - Holub's Golden, Spectacled and Black-necked Weavers 222 Grosbeak and yellow weavers: 4 - Grosbeak, Vitelline Masked and Baglafecht Weavers 224 Waxbills - Common, Crimson-rumped and Black-cheeked Waxbills 226 Whydah and cordon-bleus - Pin-tailed Whydah and Red-cheeked and Blue-capped Cordon-bleus 228 Waxbills and whydah - Green-winged Pytilia, Bronze Mannikin and Eastern Paradise Whydah 230 Waxbills and indigobird - Purple Grenadier, Red-billed Firefinch and Village Indigobird 232 Canaries - African Citril and Brimstone and White-bellied Canaries 234 Buntings and seedeater - Cinnamon-breasted and Golden-breasted Buntings and Streaky Seedeater 236 NIGHT BIRDS Nightjar and owls - Slender-tailed Nightjar and Barn and African Wood Owls 238 Small owls - African Scops and Northern White-faced Scops Owls and Pearl-spotted Owlet 240 Eagle owls - Spotted, Verreaux's and Greyish Eagle Owls 242 Further reading and useful resources 244 Acknowledgements 245 Photographic credits 246 Scientific names of the bird species included in this book 247 Index 252 Short Index inside back cover

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Book SynopsisOffers an evolutionary history of Darwin's finches since their origin almost 3 million years ago. By continuously tracking finch populations over a period of four decades, this title uncovers the causes and consequences of significant events leading to evolutionary changes in species.Trade ReviewHonorable Mention for the 2015 PROSE Award in Biological Sciences, Association of American Publishers One of Choice's Outstanding Academic Titles for 2014 "For the Grants, Daphne Major has been a magic well. With their four decades of work on the island, they've made it a magnificent microcosm, a model of life on Earth."--Jonathan Weiner, New York Times "For the Grants, evolution isn't a theoretical abstraction. It's gritty and real and immediate and stunningly fast... Most of all, the book is an affirmation of the importance of long-term fieldwork as a way of capturing the true dynamism of evolution."--Joel Achenbach, Princeton Alumni Weekly "The study described here is truly exceptional. Peter and Rosemary Grant ... have devoted their careers to the study of the group of birds known as Darwin's finches on the Galapagos archipelago, one of the most isolated and inhospitable places on Earth. But the payoff is that their research furnishes some of the most compelling evidence for natural selection and the origin of species... The Grants' achievement is monumental."--Tim Birkhead, Times Higher Education "[O]ne of the most intriguing books I have ever read... Read it for yourself. You'll be glad you did!"--Allan Archer, BTO News "This volume not only provides detailed evidence of the evolution of a specific group of animals, but also offers an overall perspective on how and in what ways bird species have changed in this rather isolated locality."--Choice "Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder and 'best' is often a subjective term. In the case of the Grant's work on Galapagos finches, I think it is possible to argue objectively that it really is the best by some measures because of its design, sustained execution, and continual incorporation of new methods and ideas. This book contributes to the status of their research program because it makes this body of work readily accessible to a much larger audience."--David Reznick, Ecology "40 Years of Evolution offers readers numerous opportunities for inspiration at how the study of ecology, evolution, and natural history of finches on a small island reflects the forces at work in the Galapagos and throughout life."--Frederick R. Davis, Quarterly Review of Biology "This book uses hard won data ... to draw insightful conclusions about the messy, dynamic, and creative processes of evolutionary change and lineage divergence. It would make an excellent ... textbook for a college-level course in evolution because it has it all: natural selection, sexual selection, heritability, competition, character displacement, speciation, and extinction... This book is a tribute to the authors themselves."--Michael S. Webster, EvolutionTable of Contents*Frontmatter, pg. i*Contents, pg. ix*Illustrations, pg. xvii*Tables, pg. xxiii*Boxes, pg. xxv*Preface, pg. xxvii*1. Speciation, Adaptive Radiation, And Evolution, pg. 3*2. Daphne Finches: A Question of Size, pg. 17*3. Heritable Variation, pg. 41*4. Natural Selection And Evolution, pg. 55*5. Breeding Ecology And Fitness, pg. 77*6. A Potential Competitor Arrives on Daphne, pg. 103*7. Competition and Character Displacement, pg. 122*8. Hybridization, pg. 138*9. Variation and Introgression, pg. 166*10. Long-Term Trends in Hybridization, pg. 183*11. Long-Term Trends in Natural Selection, pg. 205*12. Speciation, pg. 229*13. Speciation by Introgressive Hybridization, pg. 245*14. The Future of Finches on Daphne, pg. 271*15. Themes and Issues, pg. 287*16. Generalization, pg. 300*17. Epilogue, pg. 310*Coda, pg. 319*Appendixes, pg. 321*Abbreviations, pg. 341*Glossary, pg. 343*References, pg. 353*Subject Index, pg. 389

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Beautifully designed and easy to browse, Birds of Kruger National Park fills an important gap and will be useful not just in the park, but in many other areas with similar habitats, to everyone wanting to explore Africa's avian wildlife. . . . With over 250 described species, Birds of Kruger National Park will prove useful for newcomers and experienced birders alike. You get beautiful photos, physical characteristics, and a description of varying size for all of them. . . . . I'd recommend it to everyone visiting Kruger Park as well as other, similar, habitats across the continent." * ZME Science *"[Barnes and Behrens] have here created a bird guide that is an excellent companion to Animals of Kruger National Park; together the visitor to Kruger National Park has all the information she (or he) needs to enjoy one of the great reserves in the world. . . . This is a handy guide to have in the field."---Donna Lynn Schulman, 10,000 Birds

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Book SynopsisThe lives and activities of seabirds as you've never seen them beforeSeabirds evoke the spirit of the earth's wildest places. They spend large portions of their lives at sea, often far from land, and nest on beautiful and remote islands that humans rarely visit. Thanks to the development of increasingly sophisticated and miniaturized devices thTrade Review"One of the British Trust for Ornithology's Best Bird Books of 2018""A brilliant global overview of seabird behaviour."---Kenny Taylor, BBC Wildlife"His tour of the ecological highlights is gripping in scope and in granular detail gleaned from observations of puffins, penguins, fulmars and more."---Barbara Kiser, Nature"This is a celebration of nature writing, scientific research and the wonder of birds, large and small, that glide, flap and flutter across the world’s oceans."---Tim Birkhead, Times Literary Supplement"Brooke’s storytelling skills are first rate, and artist Bruce Pearson’s illustrations only further the mesmerizing quality of this project." * Foreword Reviews *"[Brooke] shares his encyclopedic knowledge with dry wit and fine attention to detail in this absorbing book. . . . His enthusiasm is so infectious that Far from Land is bound to hatch some much-needed new devotees."---Adrian Barnett, New Scientist"If you thought you knew all about seabirds, then think again. This book is absolutely packed with new information."---John Miles, Bird Watching Magazine"Written with passion and knowledge in equal doses. It is beautifully written, immediately captures interest, is erudite, avoids jargon, and is entertaining with a fair peppering of humour. . . . I cannot think of one good reason why any seabirder – field birders and researchers alike – would want to skip this book. Buy it."---Bob Flood, Birdwatch Magazine"[A] marvellous new study."---John Burnside, New Statesman"A thoroughly enjoyable and illuminating survey of the world of seabirds – made all the more enjoyable by Bruce Pearson’s lovely pen-and-wash illustrations."---Nigel Andrew, Literary Review"The most up-to-date picture of how seabirds behave when we aren’t watching. . . . Beautifully written."---Joe Culley, Irish Times"In a very approachable and often dazzling book, Michael Brooke blends the seemingly incompatible worlds of romance and science. The book almost reads like a collection of fairy tales, stories from lands far away of almost-mythical creatures."---Mihai Andrei, ZME Science"As an all-encompassing look at the lives of all sort of seabirds, this book would be hard to beat . . . a must-have book for anyone with an interest in the most mysterious of all birds."---Matt Merritt, Bird Watching Magazine"Michael Brooke has drawn on his knowledge of current science to give a timely summary of research so far and a brilliant global overview of seabird behaviour."---Kenny Taylor, BBC Wildlife Magazine"To read it is like encountering a new and unknown blue planet for the first time. . . . How much better to live now when the world of seabirds, even far from land, is chronicled in such magnificent detail by scientists such as Brooke."---Matt Ridley, The Times"A magical tour of every ocean and some of the remotest locations on the planet through the lives of seabirds. . . . The potential for future discoveries as technologies advance is truly exciting and I cannot wait for the sequel to this book in 20 years’ time."---Ruth Walker, British Trust for Ornithology"Michael Brooke’s book, Far From Land, provides an entertaining and highly digestible account of what we have learnt from the past three decades of seabird tracking research, and what we have learnt is nothing short of staggering. . . . It is well written, tripping along at a nice pace, and should keep anyone with an interest in marine biology or ornithology entertained."---Stephen Votier, Current Biology Magazine"An impressive global overview of impressive modern research into what proves to be even more impressive seabirds. . . . Altogether a well-written, finely illustrated, instructively mapped book."---Richard Sherley, Seabird"This is a relatively slim volume, but one that is absolutely packed with information and all conveyed in an engaging and often witty style."---Andrew Bielinski, Scottish Birds"The book is written with wit (e.g., quoting from a scientific presentation given in rap) and real insight, helped bythe fact that the author himself is a field ornithologist and understands how much time and effort goes into workthat may end up summarized in a sentence in the book. This is a book that all ornithologists should read, but itwill also inspire marine biologists, seafarers, and all who travel the seas into deepened respect for the seabirdswith which they share the oceans."---Michael Scott, Conservation Biology

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A good read and well priced. . . . I’m sure many of you will enjoy it."---John Miles, Birdwatching Magazine"After sparking a U.K. birding movement over the past decade, Lindo is now bringing his message to the international stage with his new guide How to Be an Urban Birder, published in August. At 200-plus pages, the book is a satisfying and accessible read for beginner birders everywhere, and is packed full of photos, illustrations, tips, tricks, and anecdotes."---Bryony Angell, Audubon"I heartily recommend this book to anyone who is wanting to learn more about the wildlife immediately around them, even if you live in a suburb or a small village, this book will enrich you contact with nature and teach you how to find and see creatures you never even thought might be close by."---Nick Brown, Derbyshire Wildlife Trust"Anyone looking for an urban nature manual will enjoy David Lindo’s How to Be an Urban Birder."---Patrick Barkham, The Guardian"An enjoyable and engaging introduction to the birding opportunities of even the most unlikely looking urban venue. . . . The content is refreshingly up to date too, with lots of handy hints about internet resources, smartphone apps, sound recording, phone-scoping etc. . . . The urban focus is the book’s USP, aiming to widen the birdwatching demographic beyond its traditional white, male, middle class, suburban and rural constituencies. If we are to retrieve any sort of connection with the natural world then the engagement of the city-dwelling majority will be vital. This book might be just the necessary catalyst."---Andy Stoddart, Rare Bird Alert"This thorough, richly illustrated guide to urban birding reveals just how easy, accessible and fun the activity can be."---Tom Hodgkinson, Idler"The central message is that there is a world of interest and joy on our doorsteps, even in the middle of London or Glasgow, if you just start looking." * Scottish Birds *"There is much useful information in this book for anyone starting out in the birding world. . . . It is reasonably priced, attractively produced, clearly written and will make an idea stocking-fuller for a general wildlife enthusiast of anyone making their first foray into the world of birds."---Clive Herbert, London Naturalist"[This] book is a treasure trove of information."---Jen Brown, The Happy Birder"Following Lindo’s advice, one can learn to open one’s eyes and see that nature is right at the doorstep in the form of urban birds." * Conservation Biology *

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Book SynopsisIncludes QR codes for recordings of birdsongs available on companion website.Trade Review"One of Forbes.com’s 12 Best Books About Birds and Birding in 2016""One of the fascinating aspects of both the book and the recordings is that, while chasing after birdsong, Mr. Kroodsma captures so much other detail as well....Listening to a Continent Sing, along with its website, is both an inspiration and a bundle of gifts waiting to be unwrapped."---Julie Zickefoose, Wall Street Journal"In its refreshing mix of history, linguistics, biology, and ethology,Listening to a Continent Singbrings back the joy and enthusiasm for scientific pursuits that can sometimes wane with time."---Helena J. Barr, Science"Kroodsma evokes the profound pleasure of rising before dawn to listen to the morning songs of the birds and ending the day with their evening choruses…. An informative exploration of the subtleties of bird songs." * Kirkus *"Birdsong maven Donald Kroodsma's travel journal is a welcome addition to the cycling-road-trip genre that began over a century ago. . . . It's the author's knowledge of birdsong . . . that makes this book so delightful." * Natural History *"The story is charming, funny, poignant, and heartwarming. . . . If you are going to treat yourself to one special gift this summer, make it this one!"---Cathy Taibbi, Examiner.com"Listening to a Continent Sing will be enjoyed by anyone with an interest in the outdoors, by cyclists, and above all by birders. I have only just begun reading the book, but I already suspect that it will turn out to be one of the outstanding popular birds books of the year." * The Curious Naturalist *"While the book may be categorized as a birding adventure, it is also the story of a father and son deepening their bond as they cycled by day and camped by night together for 10 weeks."---Jennifer J. Meyer, Orange County Register"Our sophistication in listening to birdsong and our enjoyment have been greatly facilitated by the writings of Don Kroodsma. . . .[Listening to a Continent Sing] provides a delightful, vicarious ride across our country."---Herb Wilson, Portland Press Herald"Listening to a Continent Sing is a travelogue of Kroodsma's 5,000 mile trip, a celebration of nature, and a multimedia experience--the book is littered with quick-response codes that link to samples of birdsong found throughout the trip, such as the pileated woodpecker and the sandhill crane." * Chicago Tribune *"Coupling these [QR] codes with the website to supply reader support makes this book truly one of a kind. Innovative educators will enjoy the challenge of deciding exactly how to use Listening to a Continent Sing in their teaching." * NSTA Recommends *"Kroodsma has an insatiable curiosity about bird vocalizations and also a deep passion for his subject. . . . This book provides a delightful, vicarious ride across our country. We stop frequently to appreciate the music of the birds." * Portland Press Herald *"An accomplished travelogue written with great style which makes for an enjoyable and highly entertaining read. It is a book to be enjoyed by birders or non-birders alike." * Another Bird Blog *"Kroodsma . . . is to birdsong what a sommelier is to fine wine. With ears as finely tuned as a musician able to recognize a symphony by the first few notes, he identifies a variety of bird species and their many song variations. . . . Listening to a Continent Sing is a feast for the senses and will no doubt inspire many to listen more deeply and more intently on the next walk or bike ride." * Urban Audubon *"One of the quirkiest and most oddly charming travel books you're likely to come across…. The whole package is engagingly chipper, a memoir of delight." * Washington Post *"Do you wish to pursue your dreams? In this remarkable book, the author, birdsong expert Donald Kroodsma, did just that when he set out on a bicycle journey from the Atlantic to the Pacific oceans, recording the songs of birds along the way. . . . Drawings of birds and the countryside fill this handsomely produced book, and the author's birdsong recordings can be accessed from QR codes in the margins. This gorgeous book combines history, geology, travel, bicycling, family relationships and birdsong into one irresistible adventure. I especially enjoyed how the author draws the reader into the places that he experienced through the use of sound."---Forbes.com, a "12 Best books about Birds and Birding in 2016" selection"No one but Don Kroodsma could have written this book, as no one hears birdsong the way he does."---Eldon Greij, Bird Watching Magazine"[Kroodsma's] delight in attending to the history and settings of the places the two pass through will leave readers listening better, too--and not just to birdsong."---Omnivoracious"Will be enjoyed by anyone with a general interest in natural history, or bicycling, not just those interested in ornithology or birdsong. So many themes permeate this fine book you are sure to find much of interest and learn a great deal about birdsong in the process. What a trip!"---Eugene S. Morton, Journal of Ornithology

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Book SynopsisThis volume and its predecessor condense the vast amount of literature on the nonpasserines of Ontario into a compact reference manual that will be essential to biologists, environmental planners, and serious birders.Trade Review"Sandilands has done a very thorough job of researching information... A tremendous amount of material is summarized in the species accounts, and it is presented in a well-written style. I strongly recommend this book and future volumes in the series. - Ron Tozer, Ontario Birds"Table of ContentsINTRODUCTIONScope and Sources of InformationFormat of the Species AccountsFuture ResearchSPECIES ACCOUNTSBlack-bellied PloverAmerican Golden-PloverSemipalmated PloverPiping PloverKilldeerBlack-necked StiltAmerican AvocetSpotted SandpiperSolitary SandpiperGreater YellowlegsWilletLesser YellowlegsUpland SandpiperEskimo CurlewWhimbrelHudsonian GodwitMarbled GodwitRuddy TurnstoneRed KnotSanderlingSemipalmated SandpiperWestern SandpiperLeast SandpiperWhite-rumped SandpiperBaird’s SandpiperPectoral SandpiperPurple SandpiperDunlinStilt SandpiperBuff-breasted SandpiperRuffShort-billed DowitcherLong-billed DowitcherWilson’s SnipeAmerican WoodcockWilson’s PhalaropeRed-necked PhalaropeBonaparte’s GullLittle GullFranklin’s GullRing-billed GullHerring GullIceland GullLesser Black-backed GullGlaucous GullGreat Black-backed GullCaspian TernBlack TernCommon TernArctic TernForster’s TernParasitic JaegerBlack GuillemotRock PigeonMourning DoveYellow-billed CuckooBlack-billed CuckooBarn OwlEastern Screech-OwlGreat Horned OwlSnowy OwlNorthern Hawk OwlBarred OwlGreat Gray OwlLong-eared OwlShort-eared OwlBoreal OwlNorthern Saw-whet OwlCommon NighthawkChuck-will’s-widowWhip-poor-willChimney SwiftRuby-throated HummingbirdBelted KingfisherRed-headed WoodpeckerRed-bellied WoodpeckerYellow-bellied SapsuckerDowny WoodpeckerHairy WoodpeckerAmerican Three-toed WoodpeckerBlack-backed WoodpeckerNorthern FlickerPileated WoodpeckerLiterature CitedIndex to Common and Scientific Bird Names

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive and accessible account of the history, ecology, geography, science, and conservation aspects surrounding the migration of approximately two hundred species of raptors.Trade Review"While there have been numerous academic papers on raptor migration, no one until Bildstein has attempted to synthesize the widely scattered data. His excellent and well-researched book offers a systematic overview of key migration routes and the species involved—he cites a list of 200 diurnal raptors—while surveying the hypotheses that attempt to explain the origins of bird-of-prey migration. Bildstein also provides an account of the world's top raptor-watching sites and rounds off with a consideration of conservation priorities."—Mark Cocker, Times Literary Supplement, June 22 2007"This book provides an excellent summary of what is known about how raptors prepare for and eventually undertake their movements. It summarises a great volume of scientific papers in a readable style. Eight species are selected for more detailed discussion: Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Bald Eagle, Honey Buzzard, Hen Harrier, Grey-faced Buzzard, Steppe Buzzard and Amur Falcon."—Birding World,"Migrating Raptors of the World, by Keith L. Bildstein, is a stunning book, exceptional in both its inherently worldwide scope and in the depth with which it treats its subjects. Like Bildstein, I was fascinated at an early age by the hunting flights of birds of prey-then as an adult so entranced by their far-flung migrations that I followed peregrine falcons in a light plane from Texas to Canada and back to the tropics. Yet if this volume had existed to answer, as it does, most of my questions about where my falcons went, and when, and how they did so, I might never have made the journey with them. Thus for both the professional ornithologist and those who simply feel their hearts go out to every autumnal kettle of broadwings channeling south between Vera Cruz and the coastal Sierras, to the sight of a tundra peregrine sweeping over a Caribbean marsh, putting a thousand shorebirds into simultaneous flight, or to the mystery of a golden eagle soaring north—from where to where?—along the Rocky Mountains' Front Range, this book is a key to these fierce and lovely creatures' heretofore almost mystical intercontinental realm. I could not recommend it more highly."—Alan Tennant, author of On The Wing: To the Edge of the Earth With The Peregrine Falcon"Through his extensive personal knowledge and familiarity with the published literature, Keith L. Bildstein has produced a comprehensive treatment of the spectacular phenomena of raptor migration. Until recently, migration has been one of the least understood aspects of raptor biology; however, this volume provides both professional ornithologists and amateur raptor migration enthusiasts with a very readable synthesis of our current understanding of raptor migration. Bildstein presents interesting case studies of several raptor species that illustrate how the migration strategies of these magnificent birds can develop very differently. He also highlights stories and findings from twelve of the world's most important hawk-watching sites. This book should be of broad interest to bird watchers, ornithologists, and conservation ecologists, but is a must for the libraries of raptor biologists."—Michael W. Collopy, Executive Director, Academy for the Environment

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Book SynopsisFirst Place, Professional Reference Books, 25th Annual New York Book ShowDespite their small sizes, Maryland and Washington, DC, possess a vast range of environmentsfrom the high peaks of the Allegheny Ridges to the low marshes of the Chesapeake Bay. Home to 200 nesting bird species, these habitats are under constant threat from urban sprawl, changing farming practices, and the degradation of coastal wetlands. The Second Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Maryland and the District of Columbia documents the impact of these environmental changes on the region's bird population and discusses the recovery of the endangered Bald Eagle and the new confirmation of breeding by three speciesthe Common Merganser, the Ruddy Duck, and the Double-crested Cormorant.Species accounts, each with a stunning color photograph, provide detailed coverage of the habitats, biology, and relative abundance of mid-Atlantic nesting birds. Up-to-date maps reflect changes in their breeding ranges and distributions over the past two decades. Of perhaps greatest value are the comparative analyses with data from the first statewide survey conducted in the 1980s. Treasured by birdersand an invaluable reference for ornithologists, conservationists, and land use plannersthis book will significantly influence our understanding and management of avian species in the region for the next decade.Trade ReviewAn invaluable reference... This book will significantly influence our understanding and management of avian species in the region for the next decade. A must have for birders of the region! -- Ian Paulson Guardian 2011 This is likely to remain the gold-standard reference on Maryland's birds-at least until a third atlas appears in, say, 2030. -- Scott Weidensaul Maryland Yellowthroat 2011 My favorite new naturalist reads these days if the 2nd Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Maryland and the District of Columbia. -- Stephanie Mason Audubon Naturalist News 2011Table of ContentsForewordPrefaceAcknowledgmentsAcronyms and AbbreviationsIntroductionThe History of Grid-based Ornithological AtlasesProceduresCoverageThe EnvironmentRepresentative Maryland HabitatsResultsConservationUsing the Species AccountsSpecies AccountsAdditional Accounts of Potential Nesting BirdsAppendixesA. Safe Dates for Maryland and DC Breeding BirdsB. Total Species per Block, First and Second AtlasesC. Quarterblock ResultsD. Abundance DefinitionsE. Nonavian Fauna CitedF. Plants CitedReferencesIndex

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Book SynopsisJohn James Audubon produced one of the greatest works of natural history and art of the nineteenth century, The Birds of America. As the record of the interior story of the making of this monumental work, his journal of 1826 is one of the richest documents in the history of American culture. This is the first accurate transcription of Audubon's 1826 journal.Trade Review"Now, nearly 200 years later, Audubon is in fact "here, there and all over the Globe." And we are very lucky indeed to have a definitive transcription of the document that describes how that happened."—Anthony Doerr, Boston Globe“Thanks to [this] new edition of the personal diary he kept during the voyage [to England], for the first time we are able to enter to some degree into Audubon’s thoughts and feelings during that stressful year [of 1826]”—Robert O. Paxton, New York Review of Books "Patterson strives to be faithful to the original manuscript, preserving Audubon's original writing and style except where it would lead to misunderstanding. This fidelity allows Audubon's own voice to finally emerge and provides a fascinating look at his interests, drives, and opinions."—C.T. Brundy, Choice“Audubon’s 1826 journal is one of the few surviving portions of his extensive journals, and a new, scholarly, and correct transcription is a welcome contribution and will become the standard for Audubon scholars and fans alike.”—Ron Tyler, director of the Amon Carter Museum and author of Audubon’s Great National Work: The Royal Octavo Edition of The Birds of America“This volume is all the more important because it deals specifically with the creation of his masterpiece, Birds of America‚ one of the most cherished books ever produced. This edition corrects many of the errors found in earlier published versions.” – Library Journal "The adventure would continue to unroll after Dec. 31, 1826, when this journal ends, but when Audubon signs off that night, he leaves us feeling that we have accompanied him in the achievement of a masterpiece."—James M. Keller, PasatiempoTable of ContentsList of IllustrationsForewordJohn R. KnottAcknowledgmentsIntroduction: The History and Significance of Audubon's Journal of 1826Editorial Principles and ProceduresList of Abbreviations and Symbols1. Departure from Bayou Sara and New Orleans; Voyage to Liverpool2. Liverpool3. Manchester4. Return to Liverpool5. Return to Manchester and Travel to Matlock and Bakewell6. EdinburghAppendix A: A Page from Audubon's 1828 JournalAppendix B: Letters of Introduction Copied into the 1826 JournalAppendix C: Front Matter in the Manuscript of the 1826 JournalTextual NotesIndex

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Book SynopsisDetails the months leading up to Audubon’s creation of The Birds of America, one of the greatest works of natural history and art of the nineteenth century. The first accurate transcription of Audubon's 1826 journal, this edition corrects many of the errors, both intentional and unintentional, found in previous editions.Trade Review“Thanks to [this] new edition of the personal diary he kept during the voyage [to England], for the first time we are able to enter to some degree into Audubon’s thoughts and feelings during that stressful year [of 1826]”—Robert O. Paxton, New York Review of Books "Patterson strives to be faithful to the original manuscript, preserving Audubon's original writing and style except where it would lead to misunderstanding. This fidelity allows Audubon's own voice to finally emerge and provides a fascinating look at his interests, drives, and opinions."—C.T. Brundy, Choice"Now, nearly 200 years later, Audubon is in fact "here, there and all over the Globe." And we are very lucky indeed to have a definitive transcription of the document that describes how that happened."—Anthony Doerr, Boston Globe“This volume is all the more important because it deals specifically with the creation of [Audubon’s] masterpiece, Birds of America‚ one of the most cherished books ever produced. This edition corrects many of the errors found in earlier published versions.”—Library Journal “Audubon’s 1826 journal is one of the few surviving portions of his extensive journals, and [this] new, scholarly, and correct transcription is a welcome contribution and will become the standard for Audubon scholars and fans alike.”—Ron Tyler, director of the Amon Carter Museum and author of Audubon’s Great National Work: The Royal Octavo Edition of “The Birds of America” “[Audubon] proves a memorable observer, who immediately charmed his way as a long-haired ‘American woodsman.’”—John McEwen, Country Life (UK) "The adventure would continue to unroll after Dec. 31, 1826, when this journal ends, but when Audubon signs off that night, he leaves us feeling that we have accompanied him in the achievement of a masterpiece."—James M. Keller, Pasatiempo – Santa Fe New Mexican

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Book SynopsisBlends memoir and nature writing, tracking the Platte River valley for one calendar year, ushering readers through its diverse and changing landscape and the plants, animals, and humans that call the ecosystem home.Trade Review“This articulate and compelling account of the history of crane country in Nebraska follows the seasons over a landscape that hosts in spring the planet’s greatest gathering of cranes. Doreen Pfost elegantly weaves together the story of these magnificent ambassadors for things wild and free in a part of our planet that humans have transformed in recent centuries, but where ancient wildlife spectacles still happen.”—George Archibald, cofounder of the International Crane Foundation “Doreen Pfost’s personal homage to Nebraska’s Platte River is a powerful collection of twelve essays encompassing a year, bounded by its spring crane migration. They reveal a Willa Cather–like affection for the place and its people and an Aldo Leopold–like capacity to describe its wildlife, especially the iconic sandhill cranes.”—Paul A. Johnsgard, author of Seasons of the Tallgrass Prairie: A Nebraska YearTable of ContentsAcknowledgments1. Swept Up in a Wind-Borne River: March and Early April2. Regarding the Aftermath: Late April3. Trails and Consequences: May4. Rooted in Sand: June5. Of Legendary Worth: July6. River Walkers: August and September7. Flickering Light on the Flyway: October and Early November8. Outside Home: Late November9. This Living Planet: December10. Teaching Ourselves to See: January11. Wonders Close to Home: February12. Swept Up, Still and Again: MarchBibliography

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Book SynopsisTraces the ways in which birds have historically been seen as beautiful creatures worthy of protection and study and yet subject to experiments - scientific, literary, and governmental - that have irrevocably altered their relationship with humans. Scarlet Experiment speculates about the effects our decisions will have on the future of North American bird ecology.Trade Review"A good introduction to this vibrant literature."—Amy Coale, H-Environment"The subject of this carefully documented and well researched book is how experiments, in all senses of the word, have affected both humans and birds in America over the last two centuries."—David J. Robertson, Natural Areas Journal“The breadth and coverage of not only the science but the history and changing treatment of birds is astounding. . . . Brilliantly written.”—Heidi Marcum, senior lecturer in the Department of Environmental Science at Baylor UniversityTable of ContentsList of Illustrations Acknowledgments Introduction: Split the Lark 1. Emotion and Intelligence: The Blue Jay 2. Interpellation and Interiority: The European Starling 3. Capital and Conservation: The Red Knot 4. Nuisance and Neighbor: Canada Goose 5. Confusion and Classification: Black-Crested Titmouse or Tufted Titmouse Conclusion: The Future of Birds Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisBeautifully illustrated with colour photographs, maps, graphs, and tables, the Oklahoma Winter Bird Atlas offers ornithologists and amateur birders alike a wealth of easy-to-read information about the status of bird species in Oklahoma.

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