Book SummaryNational Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds, by National Audubon Society

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds

Bird Identification and Taxonomy

Identifying different bird species visually.

Distinguishing various avian groups through the observation of their distinct silhouettes and contours.

The writers stress the importance of promptly recognizing a bird's dimensions and silhouette for accurate identification, particularly when observations are fleeting. The manual features a section with silhouettes to assist in distinguishing different bird species, grouping them into general categories like wading birds and those similar to gulls. Each family within these categories is distinguished by a distinct shape, encompassing birds such as herons and cranes.

These outlines act as visual starting points, guiding you towards the right section of the book for more specific identification. For assistance in recognizing a bird that strides through water on elongated limbs, refer to the section on "Tall Wading Birds." By observing the bird's outline and comparing it to the distinctive shapes of herons, spoonbills, or cranes, you can quickly refine your identification when looking through the pictures.

To properly distinguish different bird species, it is essential to observe their distinctive features, including the shape of their tail feathers and the pattern of their wing feathers.

The authors highlight the importance of distinctive traits that aid in the swift identification of different avian species. Pay close attention to the distinctive features of the bird's plumage at the tail and the configuration of its wings.

When examining the beak, observe whether it is elongated or compact, thin or thick, and whether it arcs or remains linear. The guide emphasizes these distinctions by providing concrete illustrations. The shovel-like bill of the Northern Shoveler sets it apart from other duck species, while the Ibises are recognized by their long, downward-curving beaks, which differentiate them from herons.

When evaluating the bird's tail, consider its total length and shape, noting if it is long or short, curves at the tip, has an even border, forms a triangular shape, shows notches, or divides centrally. This technique assists in distinguishing the Barn Swallow, recognized in the East by its significantly split tail, from the Cliff Swallow, which features a tail that is noticeably square-shaped.

Inspect the length and contour of the wings to ascertain whether they appear extended or brief, and assess whether they are more rounded or tapered in shape. The Mississippi Kite is easily distinguishable from other hawks due to its slender, pointed wings as opposed to the more common rounded wings found in its counterparts.

To accurately recognize different bird species, one must consider the ecosystems they occupy, their size, the distinctive features of their feathering, and the way they act.

The writers emphasize the significance of recognizing bird behavior, noting the differences in their size and the diversity of their feather patterns, as well as the habitats they occupy, as crucial elements in identification.

Behavior: Observe whether the bird is solitary or part of a group. Does it move with the characteristic hop of sparrows, or does it walk in a manner similar to a starling? Does it forage among the foliage in a manner akin to that of warblers or vireos? Examples within the guide show how this works. The near-constant tail movement is a distinctive characteristic that makes the Spotted Sandpiper easily recognizable. The Sandhill Crane stands out in flight due to its neck being stretched out, in contrast to herons which retract their necks while flying.

Size Comparison: The authors recommend estimating the size of an unfamiliar bird by mentally contrasting it with the size of well-known birds like Robins and Crows. This helps prevent misidentification. The Green Heron's stature, comparable to a crow, aids in its identification and sets it apart from the much larger Great Blue Heron.

Differences in feather coloration among birds are often linked to the age or sex of the...

National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds Summary Bird Behavior and Ecology

Observing the unique actions and habits of different bird species to recognize them.

Investigating the wide range of avian activities, such as their inclination to gather in groups, be mobile, leap, and seek out their favored environments for searching for food.

The authors highlight the importance of observing bird behavior for identification. The unique actions and habits of every bird species provide crucial clues.

Start by noting whether the bird is solitary or in the company of others. Cedar Waxwings are commonly seen in groups, whereas the Solitary Sandpiper typically lives up to its name, being observed alone.

Second, notice the manner in which the birds navigate their environment: do they walk in a way that recalls the movement of starlings, or do they hop like sparrows? This simple distinction can prevent misidentification. The Northern Cardinal typically opts for walking over hopping while foraging on the ground.

Third, observe carefully the particular areas where birds forage. Bird species exhibit unique feeding behaviors; for example, thrashers and sparrows usually forage on the ground, while warblers and vireos primarily look for nourishment among the...

National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds Summary Bird Habitats and Migration

Identifying Avian Habitats

The guide details how specific bird species are attracted to certain habitats, including coastal zones, forests, grasslands, and metropolitan parks.

The authors emphasize the significance of understanding habitat preferences for successful birding. The guide thoroughly documents the usual habitats of specific bird species, which range from urban parks to prairies and deciduous woodlands. The comprehensive descriptions of the various bird species encompass their favored environments, aiding enthusiasts in identifying the best locations for bird observation.

For instance, the guide suggests that to observe the American Oystercatcher, enthusiasts should concentrate their search on coastal regions, particularly on sandy and pebbly beaches, the transitional areas between the high and low tide marks, and the edges of saltwater marshes, as these locations are typically frequented by the species. The Brown Thrasher is usually found in areas characterized by a profusion of dense shrubbery, scattered scrubby plants, and the peripheries of woodlands, all of which contribute to making its concealed presence known.

The process of identifying...

National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds Summary Bird Conservation and Threats

Statutory safeguards for avian species

The guide provides a summary of government policies safeguarding the habitats of most avian species.

The group dedicated to protecting birds emphasizes the importance of implementing legislation to protect diverse avian species. The guide emphasizes the illegality of interfering with birds, their nests, young, or eggs, as well as capturing them, within the jurisdictions of both the United States and Canada. The regulations safeguard a vast array of bird species against harm, regardless of whether they are designated as game or not.

Familiarizing oneself with the rules governing hunting.

The writers highlight that each species of bird is subject to hunting laws, with the specific timing of hunting seasons and the applied limitations being set by the relevant state or province. People who are passionate about observing avian species should consult with regional experts to gain a thorough understanding of the species that can be observed legally and the permits required for such activities.

Efforts to conserve are underway to protect species that are in short supply or facing extinction.

The guide underscores the...