The Bird Almanac: A Guide to Essential Facts and Figures of the World's Birds - Softcover

If the reader is looking for a single source of information about birds, this book is the answer.--William H. Adams"Science Books and Films" (01/01/2005) It should have a place on your reference shelf.--Sharon Wootton"Olympia Olympian" (07/24/2004) Curious and quintessential ornithological data that will appeal to both experienced birders as well as the casual observer... An essential reference.-- (09/01/2004) This much revised edition of The Bird Almanac is updated, expanded, and even more user-friendly than the well-received first publication... This is a must-have handbook for the modern birder.-- (01/01/2005) Information and more... This comprehensive book puts the answer to bird questions at your fingertips.-- (06/16/2004) The Bird Almanac is the most thorough reference book on birds and bird-watching that I have ever encountered. I'll be reaching for this book again and again -- that is, when I'm not skimming through it for fun.--Bird Watcher's Digest Easy-to-understand terms and noted illustrations... fascinating facts.-- (10/01/2004) Covers a wide range of birding topics... This is a resource that many birders would enjoy using.-- (11/01/2004) Chosen as one of the "Best Books for Junior High and Young Adult 2005" by Science Books and Films.--Science Books and Films (01/01/2006) Fat, fact-filled reference... masterfully assembled a rich trove of critical information, trivia, bird-feeder guidelines, dates, thumbnail biographies, checklists, records, extremes, and much more.-- (05/01/2005)

Observing birds often raises many intriguing questions. Such as what is the incubation time for those robin eggs sitting in the nest above the porch light? What kinds of flowers attract humming birds? What are the migratory distances of various species? What are the major causes of bird deaths? The Bird Almanac is an invaluable resource, impressive in scope and depth and complemented with tables and illustrations. This Second Edition has been reformatted for easier use and now features quick-find tabs and an index. The first section of the book comprehensively covers the history, biology and behavior of birds. Bird physiology, biological systems and anatomy are explained in easy-to-understand terms and annotated illustrations. Other topics include: Fossil history of birds Reproduction and mortality Threatened and endangered species Major birding festivals and competitions How to attract specific species to the backyard Extensive resources for bird-lovers including the top birding locations in America Birding code of ethics The second section consists of an authoritative world checklist of bird species. The birds are organized by taxonomic order and listed by common and Latin name. The valuable information in The Bird Almanac fills in the gaps in knowledge of even the most seasoned birder.