Heading to your local book store and perusing the selection of bird identification books can seem like a slightly daunting task, particularly if you are a rookie bird watcher.
Here we have compiled a list of our five favorite bird identification books. Take your time and browse each one carefully, and find the right fit for your particular uses. Start by looking up a few birds familiar to you in each guide, and judging the publication by its information and ease of use. Above all else, have fun! Bird watching should prove to be a hobby you enjoy for many years to come!
Without further delay here is our list: (All titles carried in-store!)
The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Eastern North America – The Sibley Guides are becoming the standard in the birding world, now covering over 810 North American Birds. Stunning illustrations and detailed information line this guide for your birding pleasure.
Peterson Field Guide to Birds of Eastern and Central North America, Sixth Edition – This has been one of the best selling guides since 1934, now in its sixth edition. Size is what matters with this guide, at a size of 5”x8”, they are wonderfully portable for the birder on the go.
National Geographic Field Guide To The Birds Of North America, Sixth Edition – Also in its sixth edition, the National Geographic Field Guide has been updated with the newest material since its original edition was published over 25 years ago.
Smithsonian Field Guide to the Birds of North America – The Smithsonian Guide features a unique “whole bird” approach to their bird identification guide. This guide boasts more than 750 species, 2000 stunning photographs, and more than 700 detailed and up-to-date color range maps.
Kaufman Field Guide to Birds of North America – Leading the pack in introducing a new generation to bird watching, the Kaufman Guide is probably the most useful guide for those just starting out. Size and ease of use in the field make this a favorite of both seasoned birders and people new to birding.
These guides are great in the field, and we carry each one of these titles in our store. So please, stop by and get a feel for every guide out there, as there is no one-size-fits-all approach to selecting a field guide for the study of birds. Plus we would love to help!
We also recommend for the technologically inclined birder; The Online Guide To North American Birds by the Audubon Society. In our opinion, probably the best online resource for your bird identification needs!
We hope to see you out there this Spring!