Description
Book Synopsis2020 Nebraska Book Award
The Great Plains is a well-known and well-studied hybrid zone for many animals, most notably birds.
In Great Plains BirdsLarkinPowell exploresthe history, geography, and geology of the plains and the birds thatinhabitit.From the sandhill crane to ducks and small shorebirds, he explains migration patterns and showshow human settlementshaveaffectedthe movements of birds. Powelluses historical maps and imagesto show how wetlands have disappeared, how grasslands have been uprooted, how rivers have been modified by dams, and how the distribution of forestshas changed, all the while illustrating whygrassland birds are the most threatened group of birds in North America. Powell also discussesconservation attempts and how sporting organizations have raised money to create wetland and grassland habitats for both game and nongame species.
Great Plains Birds tells the story of the birds of the plains, discussing where
Trade Review
"This informative book will be both a practical resource and enjoyable reading for nature lovers."—Publishers Weekly
"As a lifelong Nebraskan, biologist, and birder for over twenty years, I enjoyed how this book connected the history of the Great Plains at a millennium timescale with current bird migration patterns across the nation, stories handed down over the last several generations, and delightful bird behaviors into a fascinating narrative. After reading this book, I have a renewed sense of pride in and understanding of the Great Plains and the birds that call this place home."—Kristal Stoner, Nebraska History
“I started reading the UNL professor’s charming and edifying exposition on the birds that surround us on the plains at the tail end of last year and couldn’t put it down. So many fascinating bird facts tucked inside. . . . So many well-told tales. . . . The professor’s book is part of an eight-book Discover the Great Plains series published by the University of Nebraska Press. May they all be as entertaining.”—Cindy Lange-Kubick, Lincoln Journal Star
“From modern-day prairie birds (and where to see them), to geography, history, and conservation, this book is an excellent introduction for anyone wanting to learn more about the vast heart of America, the Great Plains. Wonders abound, if only we look.”—Joel Sartore, Photo Ark founder and National Geographic photographer and fellow
“Powell’s personal love for the Great Plains and its birds is contagious. This book plays a critically important role in raising awareness, building appreciation, and calling for conservation action for North America’s most threatened birds.”—Martha Kauffman, managing director of the World Wildlife Fund, Northern Great Plains Programs
“My high expectations were met when I read Powell’s book Great Plains Birds, but they were exceeded when I found myself laughing and living vicariously through his personal narrative. This book is honest and important and presents a clear-eyed view of bird conservation today in our heartland.”—Michael Forsberg, photographer and author of Great Plains: America’s Lingering Wild
“With this book, you are accompanied by your personal storytelling guide while discovering this underappreciated region of North America. Wisdom on geology, natural history emphasizing birds, wildlife management, and history is offered in an engaging narrative.”—Gary C. White, professor emeritus of fish, wildlife, and conservation biology at Colorado State University
“This book entices and prepares readers to make their own personal connection to the heart of North America through its most inspiring occupants, Great Plains birds.”—Sarah Sortum, rancher and ecotourism provider
Table of Contents
List of Illustrations
Acknowledgments
Introduction
1. The Birds: Symbols of the Great Plains
2. The Place: Homes, Habitats, and Aerial Highways
3. The Problems: Humans and Birds on the Plains
4. The Hope: Conservation Strategies
5. The Experience: Visiting the Birds of the Great Plains
Suggested Resources
Index
