Perfect for both the scientific ornithologist and the amateur birder, A Guide to the Nests, Eggs, and Nestlings of North American Birds provides a thorough, species-by-species guide to the breeding biology of the birds of North America. Some 669 breeding species are described in full, covering the birds of a vast area, from the Arctic to the southern boundary of the continental United States.
The main text presents complete basic information on the breeding cycle of each species, summarized in a natural sequence: nest habitat, nest-site, nest construction, breeding season, eggs, incubation and nesting and nestling period. Over 100 black-and-white drawings of nests and nestlings and identification keys provide valuable information on the identification of the nests, eggs, and nestlings of the species. Sixteen color plates show a wide range of typical young, mostly of species with precocial, or downy nestlings. A further 48 color plates show the eggs of 597 species (some with examples of the natural variations commonly encountered.).
If you fascination in the nests, eggs, and nestlings of North American birds centers on identifying them in the field, you will find this book essential. If conservation is also a concern you will appreciate the value of understanding the breeding requirements and biology of even the most common of species. This book will prove invaluable whatever your interest in North American birds.
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