National Audubon Society North American Birdfeeder Guide

National Audubon Society North American Birdfeeder Guide

From the National Audubon Society comes a richly illustrated handbook of bird identification that provides helpful tips on the art of birdwatching, closeup illustrations, locator maps, birding etiquette, essential equipment, and tips on the best ways to attract, feed, and observe various bird species in one's own backyard. Of the approximately 700 North American bird species, about 100 are regular backyard species, and it is estimated that about one-third of all adults in the U.S. take time to watch them. By setting up feeders, nest boxes, and birdbaths and planting bird-friendly gardens, backyards can serve as bird sanctuaries. A chapter on "what birds need" examines the four major factors in their habitat: food, cover, water, and space. The authors describe the types of hanging and ground birdfeeders, birdbaths, and nest boxes. They recommend flowers, trees, shrubs, vines, ground covers, and the types of gardens that will attract birds. They explain bird behavior (their daily cycle of activity, migration, flight, feeding, vocal communication, courtship, nesting, and the ways they defend their territory). There are profiles of 100 of the most common birds, giving details of their size, shape, color, voice, and behavior. Maps show the seasonal range of each. The lavishly illustrated guide contains a wealth of new information. George Cohen Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved Audubon's mission is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth's biological diversity.