Hummingbirds Of North America: The Photographic Guide Download Free (EPUB, PDF)
This book is the first ever, comprehensive photographic guide to the identification of all 24 species of hummingbirds to be seen as breeders or vagrants in North America. For all their startling colors, the speed of hummingbird flight and the often drab coloration of females and immatures make this group especially difficult to deal with in the field. The simple field marks are often poorly lit, hard to spot, or simply not shown by any particular individual under observation. But accurate identification of these popular and beautiful birds brings both real satisfaction and a welcome challenge to most birders. Steve Howell, a well-known and respected bird tour leader and author, has made a particular study of the finer points of hummingbird recognition and has specially chosen over 200 stunning photographs to complement the information given in his text. Some species feature as many as 14 photographs each. A detailed introduction covers the basics of hummingbird anatomy and plumage variation, allowing the observer to effectively focus on points that are of value in the field. New field marks are provided and old myths dispelled in this ground breaking and essential new guide. Key Features: Contains up to 14 full-color photos for each species, with detailed photo captions Detailed introduction covers fundamentals of hummingbird identification, including discussions of anatomy, plumage variation, and molt Comprehensive species accounts describe all plumages, compare similar species in depth, and discuss voice, displays, behavior, geographic range, and seasonal distribution Emphasizes difficult to identify plumages, such as females and immatures Features 200 stunning photos picked specifically to show identification criteria
Paperback: 232 pages
Publisher: Princeton University Press; 1 edition (February 9, 2003)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0691116032
ISBN-13: 978-0691116037
Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.6 x 8.5 inches
Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars See all reviews (37 customer reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #374,118 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #162 in Books > Science & Math > Biological Sciences > Biology > Entomology #172 in Books > Science & Math > Biological Sciences > Zoology > Ornithology #473 in Books > Arts & Photography > Photography & Video > Photojournalism & Essays > Photo Essays
This is a very useful book for birders who want to be able to identify hummingbirds in the U.S. It includes photos and accompanying text for every hummingbird that you are likely (or lucky enough) to spot within U.S. borders. The text is particularly good, and the photos are shown large enough to be of use to the beginner/intermediate birdwatcher in addition to the experienced observer.
I love hummingbirds. I found this book most useful for helping me identify many of the different species of hummingbirds when I went down to photograph and videotape 14 different types south of Tucson. The book has valuable information, brilliant close-up photos and more valuable insights into these birds, habitats and much more. There are many on the market but if you want one for identification and more too this is in my top 3.
Outstanding book!! It is formated very much like Beadle & Rising's sparrow guide (which I also highly recommend) & easily read through. They cover a total of 24 species, including Green Violetear, Cuban Emerald, White-eared, Xantus', Cinnamon, etc. Range maps are provided for the common North American species such as Black-chinned, Ruby-throated, Anna's, etc.He explains taxonomy, treating the reader to a basic, but well explained overview of each genus. Hybridization & other factors affecting ID are also discussed. Each species is treated with an identification summary, taxonomy, status & distribution, range & field identification (which includes similar species, habitat, behavior, molt, etc).The photos are excellent and are good enough to note necessary details for ID. I know some are not fans of photographic guides, but the fact is that we don't always see birds in the best light regardless of alpha optics. The book highlights the effect of light & distance in making an ID. He also includes detailed drawings to assist in determining details like tail shape, retrice shape/length, which I found very helpful.I think this book is big bang for the buck!! I don't know that I would necessarily recommend it to a novice, but for anyone else, I would say this is a great addition to a birder's library!!Note: THIS IS NOT A FIELD GUIDE & NOT MEANT TO BE!!!!
Excellent description of birds, their sounds and flight characteristics. For true birders an excellent book. For a back yard take pictures guy, I wish it had more about feeders,feeding them, flowers they like and attracting them.
I had found rather difficult to identify hummingbirds, fortunately I bought this book that describes with great detail all species in North America, covering Mexico, where I live.I strongly recommend it for anyone wishing to save time and gain a deeper knowledge about hummingbirds.The descriptions are extensive including differences between male/female, adult/immature, hybrids and similar species.
I'm so looking forward to finally being able to identify these garden speed demons. I have a feeder for the hummingbirds I have just started seeing in our new home. Now, if I could just figure out which packing box has the binoculars in it so I can get a better look at the wildlife near the pond in our backyard. Wish me luck!
IN THE EVENING WE HAVE ABOUT 40 BIRDS ON THE FEEDERS! I MIGHT HAVE COUNTED SAME BIRD A FEW TIMES,:>) - :>) - THEY MOVE FAST.HAVE 5/ 30-OZ FEEDERS ON PORCH NOW!! REFILL EVERY 4 DAYS! GOING ON 300# SUGAR NOW. SET IN MY CHAIR NOW AND SEE WHAT KIND!!! THEY ARE HERE ALL DAY LONG. :>) - :>) - :>)
This is an "adjunct" book for me, as I am primarily information-oriented, and not so much a photographer. Still, this book helps to fill in gaps and really gives me the urge to get a new camera and give "little bird" photography a shot (no pun intended). This is another book I'm glad I've added to my limited shelf.
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