Description
Many birders travel far and wide to popular birding destinations to catch sight of rare or “exotic” birds. In Slow Birding, evolutionary biologist Joan E. Strassmann introduces readers to the joys of birding right where they are.
Strassmann tells colorful stories of the most common birds to be found in the United States, birds we often see, but might not have considered deeply before. For example, northern cardinals thrive in the city, where they are free from predators. White brows on a male white-throated sparrow indicate that he is likely to be a philanderer. This essential guide to the fascinating world of common, everyday birds features detailed portraits of individual bird species and the scientists who have discovered and observed them, as well as advice and guidance on what to look for when slow birding, so that you can uncover clues to the reasons behind specific bird behaviors. Strassmann also points out bird-focused activities that will help you observe more closely and be more aware.
Hardcover.
“Like all the best nature books, Slow Birding is about much more than its titular topic. Yes, it is about birding, but it is also about history, geography, psychology—and most of all, how to see, really see, the ordinary things around you. Slow Birding will show you your own backyard as you have never seen it before.”
—MARLENE ZUK, professor of ecology, evolution, and behavior, University of Minnesota.