A one-of-a-kind guide to birding locally that encourages readers to slow down and notice the spectacular birds all around them. Many birders travel far and wide to popular birding destinations to catch sight of rare or “exotic” birds. In Slow Birding, evolutionary biologist Joan E. Strassmann introduces readers to the joys of birding right where they are. In this inspiring guide to the art of slow birding, Strassmann tells colorful stories of the most common birds to be found in the United States—birds we often see but might not have considered deeply before. For example, northern cardinals thrive in the city, where they are free from predators. White brows on a male white-throated sparrow indicate that he is likely to be a philanderer. This essential guide to the fascinating world of common, everyday birds features: detailed portraits of individual bird species and the scientists who have discovered and observed them advice and guidance on what to look for when slow birding, so that you can uncover clues to the reasons behind specific bird behaviors bird-focused activities that will open your eyes more to the fascinating world of birds Slow Birding is the perfect guide for the birder looking to appreciate the beauty of the birds right in their own backyard, observing keenly how their behaviors change from day to day and season to season.

The motivational story of David Lindo's experiences with birding in the city Anyone can become an Urban Birder. You can do it anywhere and any time, whether you've got the day to spare, on your way to work, during your lunch break or just looking out of a window. Look up and you will see. The book is an inspirational look at the birdlife in our cities, or more accurately, the author David's personal journey of discovery involving encounters with racism, air rifle-toting youths, girls, alcohol, music, finding urban wildlife oases and of course, birds.

"In this elegant narrative, celebrated naturalist Ted Floyd guides you through a year of becoming a better birder. Choosing 200 top avian species to teach key lessons, Floyd introduces a new, holistic approach to bird watching and shows how to use the tools of the 21st century to appreciate the natural world we inhabit together whether city, country or suburbs." -- From book jacket.

Through personal anecdote and expert insight, Claire Thompson invites you on a mindful journey to enjoy, and learn from the magnificent beauty, and diversity of the avian world. As an experienced mindfulness teacher, as well as a leader of impactful workshops and retreats, Claire Thompson knows that birds can do wonders for our hearts and minds--if we simply pay them attention. With Mindfulness in Birdwatching, she reveals how the practice of mindfulness enriches our birdwatching experiences--and explores how birds are, in turn, the ideal inspiration for the practice of mindfulness. Enjoy the magnificent diversity of colors, songs, flight patterns, and behaviors displayed by birds, while reaping the benefits of mindfulness: Increased concentration Increased creativity Increased vitality Reduced stress and anxiety Better overall physical and emotional well-being Better sleep Bird flight is a symbol of freedom to soar through life without constraint, and mindfulness similarly enables us to invite freedom and happiness into our own lives. Find even more ways to practice mindfulness with the Mindfulness series: Mindfulness in Wild Swimming, Mindfulness in Gardening, and more.

The perfect journal for keen daily observation of the spectacular birds all around you Many birding journals are geared around a life list, which requires traveling far and wide to see rare birds. Evolutionary biologist Joan Strassmann advocates for a different kind of birding: slow birding, focused on the joys of birding right where you are and at your own pace. This one-of-a-kind journal, filled with detailed sections for daily use, is the ideal companion for local and backyard birders. The Slow Birding Journal features: Space for recording your observations of the birds you see Targeted prompts and questions to incorporate into your birding Advice and guidance on watching birds: what to look for and pay attention to Detailed illustrations of several well-known birds, and blank pages to make your own illustrations The best birding is where you are right now: in your backyard, your local parks, or on your favorite day hikes. This journal will lead you to a deeper understanding of the birds you see each day.

Explains the best practices for bird identification including using the weather, geography, and radar.

A BIRDING JOURNEY AT HOME AND BEYOND It began with a flutter of yellow feathers flitting through the trees, casting beams of sunshine and promise that burst through her kitchen window. This was her sign to look up. As a licensed therapist, Tammah Watts knew that she needed to seek and accept hope, love, and support to overcome her chronic pain and cultivate resilience. But she could not predict that the little yellow bird would put her on the path to healing by fostering a powerful connection with birds and the experience of birding. Tammah shares her emotional journey of finding comfort and inspiration from her feathered friends, while providing practical tips and tools to help you: Explore the practice of birdwatching from the comfort of your own home and community Increase your self-awareness, mindfulness, and concentration Find acceptance and alignment with the spirit and beauty of birds Right outside your door flies just what you’ve been looking for to help ease symptoms of stress, pain, depression, and anxiety. All you have to do is look up, take notice, and open your heart and mind. No matter where you are, what you look like, or what you're going through, you can create sacred space and connection with birds and begin to heal.