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.

An invaluable guide, impressive in scope and depth, The Bird Almanac has been a bestselling resource. It's a remarkable collection of facts and figures that no serious birder should be without. This completely revised and updated edition features more information, convenient page tabs make finding information easier, and an updated list of organizations, societies and internet resources is provided. The comprehensive list of the world's birds, their conservation status, and taxonomical classification is presented in its entirety with an index of the common names, making this edition unlike any other birding resource available. Included are tips for backyard birders, Complemented by informative tables and illustrations, The Bird Almanac provides details on all aspects of avian biology including anatomy, reproduction and mortality.(Februrary 2004)

Besides a mammoth listing of bird species worldwide, "The Bird Almanac" includes detailed information on all aspects of avian physiology -- including anatomy, reproduction, and disease -- as well as a complete guide to all aspects of the ornithological community, from organizations and societies to resources on the Internet. This easy-access reference features line drawings, charts, tables, and lists of recommended gear.

Provides basic information about the biology, life cycles, and behavior of birds, along with brief profiles of each of the eighty bird families in North America.

Noted nature writer Ted Williams invites readers along on a year-long immersion in the wild and fleeting moments of the natural world, from winter candy and spring quackers to summer’s scarlet farewell and autumn reveilles. This beautifully crafted collection of short, seasonal essays combines in-depth information with evocative descriptions of nature’s marvels and mysteries. Williams explains the weather conditions that bring out the brightest reds in autumn leaves, how hungry wolf spiders catch their prey, and why American goldfinches wait until late July or August to build their nests. In the tradition of Thoreau, Carson, and Leopold, Ted Williams’s writing stands as a testament to the delicate balance of nature’s resilience and fragility, and inspires readers to experience the natural world for themselves and to become advocates for protecting and preserving the amazing diversity and activity found there.

"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.