National Geographic Complete Birds of the World

Covering every bird family worldwide - nearly 200 in all - this illustrated guide beckons enthusiasts on National Geographic's most far-ranging birding adventure ever. National Geographic Complete Birds of the World delivers essential information about our planet's birds - their appearances, ranges, voices, behaviors, conservation threats, and more. Whether you are seeking information on a specific family or simply want to satisfy your curiosity about the incredible diversity of the planet's birds, the authoritative text and stunning illustrations will guide you there.
Following a foreword by acclaimed field ornithologist and artist Jonathan Alderfer, the bird families appear in taxonomic order according to the latest Howard and Moore Checklist. Each family entry features a fact panel with a snapshot view - in map form - of its worldwide distribution, along with additional information on number of species and conservation status. The concise text, written by a team of outstanding experts, covers the structure, plumage, behavior, voice, habitat, movements, diet, breeding, and taxonomy of every family. Sidebars treat topics of special interest and beauty: from how raptors hunt to the exquisite displays of the Birds-of-Paradise. Cross-referencing tools, a glossary, and two indexes - one alphabetical and one by family - add to the practicality of this reader-friendly resource.
Best of all, on every beautiful page, vibrant photographs and art depict the marvelous color, texture, and movement of birds, revealing little-known behaviors of waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, and more - as captured by the world's leanding wildlife photographers and illustrators.

Jonathan Alderfer is chief consultant for the National Geographic Birding Program and host of our birding blog. Author, editor, and field guide illustrator, he is one of America’s foremost birding artists and an expert ornithologist.