I have some wonderful trees around my duplex, some wild grass in my back yard and more trees in yards surrounding ours. I get glimpses of birds occasionally, and the people downstairs have put up a birdfeeder which we all hope will attract even more birds.
The other day I was out in the backyard with Puppy and my little one and I heard a beautiful birdsong. However, for the life of me, I could not pinpoint where it was coming from let alone spot the bird itself.
Can anyone recommend a good book that can help you identify a bird by it's call/song?
I have seen some egg heavy Robins flitting about and what I am assuming are barn sparrows.
Song IDs are tough, esp this time of year when several bird species utilize an array of mating songs. I know there are CDs that offer birdsong IDs, but I haven't tried them. I always just rely on seeing whose singing, then trying for an ID.
A good all-around guide is the National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds. I've referred to it for years & like it better than the Peterson's guide (though I don't remember why!). I also have & like Birds of North America published by Golden. It has illustrations & Audubon has photos.
I have the Audubon Society Field Guide to the Pacific Northwest. For me a book that is more localized is great. I have about 5 different Bird books so I can tear and compare if I am undecided. I have a couple books about Raptors. I went to some Raptor classes in Skagit County and did learn a lot. MB
Thanks for the recommendations. I will have to find a localized Audubon book for this area- although until I find the elusive little bird I will probably have a hard time identifying him/her. :)
Hidden Bird, beautiful song
Posted - Apr 09 2007 : 2:07:00 PM
