New enthusiasts are flocking in record numbers to the fascinating pastime of birding. National Geographic has been meeting their need for clear and accurate information for 25 years with its best-selling Field Guide to the Birds of North America. To better serve the expanding market, the publisher has customized its field-guide format to offer unique coverage for birders east or west of the Rocky Mountains. These volumes deliver in-depth information on every bird officially recorded in the specified area, with illustrated accounts of the different plumages and life stages, along with hundreds of colour-coded range maps.
Unique features set these guides apart from the competition and promise to win a new generation of readers: A full-colour visual index, printed on the inside covers, makes the content accessible visually – a real boon to beginning and intermediate birders. Annotated artwork highlights birds' key physical features, making identification easier. Thumb-tabs help readers find information fast. Durable covers stand up to outdoor use, with integrated quick-reference flaps that double as place-markers. Field Guide to the Birds of Western North America details 750 regular species and contains 600 range maps, plus illustrated accounts for 100 casual and accidental birds and an appendix listing 55 rarities.
Jon L. Dunn is an expert on the identification and distribution of North American birds. Dunn is a co-author of National Geographic Birding Essentials. He served as chief consultant for four previous editions of National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of North America, and as editor of the seventh.
Jonathan Alderfer is a widely published author and field guide illustrator. He is co-author, with Jon L. Dunn, of National Geographic Birding Essentials, co-editor of National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of North America, 7th edition, and editor of National Geographic Complete Birds of North America. He is also chief consultant for the National Geographic Birding program.