North American Hummingbirds

Designed to help birders and banders identify, age, and sex all seventeen species of hummingbirds found in North America, this is the only identification guide devoted entirely to hummingbirds that includes up-close, easy-to-use illustrations. It also provides information on the eight species that have been reported but rarely seen in North America. On first viewing hummingbirds are often a blur of fast-moving color. However, when they perch and hover they can be observed, and the size, shape, and color; the proportions of the body, bill, throat, and tail; the wing feather pattern; and the birds' behavior are crucial to accurate identification. The author's concise descriptions and illustrations pinpoint all these features in clear, jargon-free language. Anyone who loves hummingbirds will welcome the information he provides.

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

Covering 31 North American species, with more than 250 color photos and 33 maps, this is the most comprehensive field guide to hummingbirds. Introductory chapters cover the natural history of hummingbirds, ways to attract and feed them, and major hot spots in the United States and Canada for observing these fascinating birds. The 31 color plates illustrate 28 species, 7 hybrid combinations, 3 forms of albinism, and 4 species of sphinx moths often mistaken for hummingbirds. Species accounts provide in-depth information on plumage, molt, songs and calls, wing sounds, similar species, behavior, habitat, distribution, taxonomy, and conservation concerns. Detailed range maps show breeding, non-breeding, and year-round distribution, migration routes, and records outside expected areas of occurrence.

A fully illustrated guide, keyed state by state, to all 16 species of North American hummers, including all of their personal quirks and habits.

Here is a quick and easy to use, all-weather field guide to the smallest, and some of the most colorful, mysterious and alluring birds in North AmericaHummingbirds. Over 100 stunning digital photographs depict every hummingbird species ever recorded in the United States and Canada. Each species is represented by a variety of images that show precisely which field marks to look for and how each may appear in the field at differing lighting angles. Organized by region (Widespread, Eastern, Pacific States, Rockies and Montane West, Desert Southwest, U.S./Mexican Borderland, etc.), the guide immediately sets users in the right direction by narrowing down the possibilities. Designed to satisfy the needs of birders of all interest levelsbut especially beginning and intermediate users trying to make sense of it allthis beautiful and amazingly informative six-fold guide will be an indispensable companion on all outings.

A comprehensive summary of North American hummingbird biology.

The tiny winged gems we know as hummingbirds occur in the Americas and nowhere else. This guide presents familiar species of North and South America together with basic information on their color patterns, field marks and geographical ranges. Each species description includes information on its habitat and behavior. Also included are tips for using feeders to attract hummingbirds. The Merlin Bird ID app download comes free with guide purchase.

The wings of ruby-throated hummingbirds are incredible machines, beating nearly 53 times per second and strong enough to fly across the Gulf of Mexico in a single trip! Common in North America, these birds are a delight to observe as they zoom and hover in backyards and gardens. Learn more about ruby-throated hummingbirds in this brightly colored read!