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Chris Merkord

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  1. Bird Sounds in Flight / Vogelstimmen im Flug / Voix des oiseaux en vol. Contains 350 Species, 348 minutes running time, 850 Recordings. Including a 124 pages booklet. This MP3-DISC features 850 fascinating sound recordings of 350 European bird species. These include sounds heard during local or long distance flights - both flight songs and calls, as well as instrumental sounds. At a total running time of nearly 6 hours, you will find here the most comprehensive and rarest sound documents of this kind. The bird species are listed according to the current state of research. The booklet contains 124 pages and lists vernacular bird names in German, English and French, as well as their scientific names. The texts give detailed information on recording data, recordists and other interesting facts. Welcome to the fascinating world of birds in flight!
  2. A NEW BOOK HELPING YOU WITH WHERE TO BIRD AND WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN IN THE LEHIGH VALLEY. 192 pages packed with information! Guides to 56 natural areas of the Lehigh Valley. An annotated checklist covering 349 species with occurrence and abundance information, sighting data, and preferred habitat. Bar graphs providing a visual guide to seasonal occurrence and abundance. 120 color photographs of some of the more common species occurring in the area. Spiral bound to lay flat or fold over easily in the field.
  3. Ducks, Geese, and Swans of North America has been hailed as a classic since the first edition was published in 1942. A must-have for professional biologists, birders, waterfowl hunters, decoy collectors, and wildlife managers, this fully revised and updated edition provides definitive information on the continent’s forty-six species. Maps of both winter and breeding ranges are presented with stunning images by top waterfowl photographers and the acclaimed original artwork of Robert W. (Bob) Hines. Originally authored by F. H. Kortright and later revised by Frank Bellrose, this latest edition, which has been meticulously updated by renowned waterfowl biologist Guy Baldassarre, continues the legacy of esteemed authors. Each species account contains in-depth sections on: identification distribution migration behavior habitat• population status breeding biology rearing of young recruitment and survival food habits and feeding ecology molts and plumages conservation and management To facilitate identification, the species accounts also include detailed illustrations of wings. An appendix contains comparative illustrations of ducklings, goslings, and cygnets. This edition of Ducks, Geese, and Swans consists of two volumes, printed in full color, and packaged in a slipcase, along with a CD containing references and additional maps.
  4. Explore the fascinating world of Nunavut’s diverse bird populations in this richly visual, informative book. Through beautiful photographs and a broad range of information, readers will learn about the appearances, ranges and habitats, and behaviours of eastern Arctic birds. With detailed information on more than 50 species, this book provides an in-depth look at Arctic birds. Far from a barren land of ice and snow, this book will introduce readers to the vibrant natural life of Nunavut through its distinct ornithology.
  5. The genesis of this second Breeding Atlas was an initially casual conversation between David Wood and Richard Hill, but which ended with a plan to produce a follow-up to the seminal "Birds of The Sheffield Area, including the north-east Peak District". Now, 29 years on from the first Atlas, we have the stunning publication pictured left. As its name suggests, it is a breeding atlas rather than a complete study of all species recorded during the 2003-2008 research study. The scale of the larger task would have been prohibitive, and it was decided that the breeding survey should clearly take precedence as a conservation tool. The data collection was carried out entirely by volunteer recorders, the data analysis and mapping by the ever-resourceful David Williams, the text by a team of local amateur ornithologists and the awesome colour photographs and figures by the extraordinarily talented Richard Dale Dale, Paul Leonard and Ray Scally. The editing was done by .... the inexhaustible and above-mentioned editors David and Richard. In addition to the 263 pages of species accounts, photos and distribution maps, the volume includes an Introduction by the eminent Professor Tim Birkhead, and chapters on : Sheffield area bird communities Land use and the impact of habitat changes on its birds Analysis of the current weather trends and the effects of climate change on Sheffield's birds A summary of the changing nature of our breeding birds and what the future may hold A full checklist of birds recorded in the recording area of the Sheffield Bird Study Group
  6. Australian High Country Raptors covers raptor species that regularly breed in the high country above 600 metres, from Goulburn in New South Wales down to the hills outside Melbourne, Victoria. Author Jerry Olsen explores the nature of these striking animals that are classified as Accipitriformes (diurnal hawks, falcons, kites and eagles), Falconiformes and Strigiformes (nocturnal owls). Comparisons between these high country raptors and lower-elevation breeders are also provided, in addition to comparisons with raptors found overseas, especially from North America and Europe. The book begins with a description of habitats and vegetation types in the high country, and which raptors are likely to be seen in each habitat type. It continues with sections on finding and watching raptors, raptor identification, hunting styles, food, breeding and behaviour, and conservation. Appendices provide species accounts for diurnal breeding species in the high country, with basic information about their ecology, distribution and conservation, as well as detailed instructions about handling an injured or orphaned raptor. Illustrated throughout with photographs and drawings, Australian High Country Raptors offers readers a chance to look into the lives of Australia’s fascinating birds of prey.
  7. This is the most comprehensive single-volume identification guide to African Raptors ever published. Africa has the most diverse range of raptors of any continent, with almost a third of the world's species occurring in the region. This comprehensive new book treats all of these species in impressive detail, with an emphasis on their field identification. A full range of plumages is illustrated for each species, with each plate usually covering only two species. The specially commissioned artwork has been painted by raptor enthusiast Rob Davies. The authoritative text treats the identification of both perched and in-flight birds, and covers all major plumages and morphs. These texts are accompanied by up-to-date range maps and many fabulous colour photographs from some of the world's leading bird photographers. This new book will be an essential reference for all those with an interest in raptors and especially African raptors.
  8. Written by expert birder Bill Pranty and filled with crisp, gorgeous color photography, the American Birding Association Field Guide to Birds of Florida is the perfect companion for anyone learning more about the natural history and diversity of the state’s birds and when and where to see them. 545 beautiful color photographs featuring 300 bird species in natural habitats Clear and concise introduction, identification, and habitat text Tips on when and where to see species Organized by type of bird from waterfowl to finches Table of birding sites and habitats Complete state bird checklist, detailed state map, index, and quick index
  9. Written by an expert Colorado birder and filled with crisp, gorgeous color photography, this new field guide is the perfect companion for anyone learning more about the natural history and diversity of the state’s birds and when and where to see them: 320 pages, Flexibound with jacket 500 beautiful color photographs featuring over 250 bird species in natural habitats Clear and concise introduction, identification, habitat, and birdsong text Tips on when and where to see species Organized by type of bird from waterfowl to finches Complete state checklist, detailed state map, index, and quick index
  10. Written by an expert New Jersey birder and filled with crisp, gorgeous color photography, this new field guide is the perfect companion for anyone learning more about the natural history and diversity of the state’s birds and when and where to see them: 368 pages, Flexibound with jacket 565 beautiful color photographs featuring 255 bird species in natural habitats Clear and concise introduction, identification, habitat, and birdsong text Tips on when and where to see species Organized by type of bird from waterfowl to finches Table of excursions and birdwatching throughout the seasons Complete state bird checklist, detailed state map, index, and quick index
  11. Birds are among the most eye-catching and beloved creatures. These ‘feathered bipeds’ have fascinated human beings due to their colourful plumage, ability to produce a range of sounds, migration patterns and various behaviours which showcase their intelligence and creativity. Bird books are very popular, providing a wealth of knowledge for birding enthusiasts the world over. The pocket guide ‘Birds of Hampi’ by Samad Kottur describes 230 avian species found in and around the famous Hampi ruins in the southern state of Karnataka. As the area attracts a large number of national and international tourists, the book will serve as an accurate and informative guide to the birds of the region. It is equally useful for students, researchers, ornithologists and bird lovers to explore and learn about the diverse bird population of this area. The book is illustrated with image of each species accompanied with their key descriptive characteristics and breeding plumage. Brief mention of habitat will help beginners to understand the region as well. As it is to serve primarily as a field guide, it is not a complete substitute to more detailed bird books of India, but it is a good introduction to birds of this specific area. The Bombay Natural History Society and BirdLife International have selected Hampi as an Important Bird Area (IBA) as it holds a significant population of the Yellow-throated Bulbul Pycnonotus xantholaemus, a globally threatened species. More than 100 years ago, Allan Octavian Hume saw about 20 pairs in June 1901 in Bellary district and they have been observed by bird lovers and nature enthusiasts ever since. This endemic Indian bird species is restricted to the southern Deccan plateau. Protection of its dry, scrub, thorny habitat in Hampi vicinity is essential to conserve this unique species. In my book Important Bird Areas of India that came out in 2004, I had written, “Not much is known about other birds of this area. This is one of the few sites in India selected as an IBA only on the basis of one known globally threatened species.” Samad’s book has ably addressed this gap in our knowledge of the bird life of this interesting historical region in this book.
  12. Western Himalayas has many birding sites. Sainj Valley is one such site which is rich in bird's biodiversity. This Valley has number of Pheasants species which comprised of Western Tragopan, Himalayan Monal, Cheer Pheasant, Koklass Pheasant and Kalij Pheasant etc. Thus it represents the most characteristic and distinct birds of Western Himalayas. Sainj Valley is situated in Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh, India. In this book, I attempted to describe the avian fauna of Western Himalayas, with special reference to birds of Sainj Valley and Great Himalayan National Park. I hope this book will be useful for amateur bird watchers, naturalists, ornithologists and eco-tourists.
  13. Wetland Birds of Tamil Nadu is an authentic pictorial field guide, written by a leading ornithologist to assist birdwatchers in identifying 149 species of wetland birds, including rare ones, seen in Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states. Wetland Birds of Tamil Nadu includes 215 outstanding colour photographs as well as lucid description of clearly recognizable field characters that help to identify even those species showing only subtle differences. A great tool in the hands of anyone who loves to discover the natural world: tourists, bird watchers and students.
  14. A symbol of Hawaiian royalty—indomitable, swift, strong, and fierce—‘io, the Hawaiian hawk, Buteo solitarius, also represents a Hawai‘i that has remained unchanged from its earliest days of wild splendor. Blown from their customary migratory route between North America and South America, the first birds arrived before human voyagers discovered the Islands over a thousand years ago. Although there are occasional vagrants (osprey, sea eagles, and peregrines), the Hawaiian hawk remains the only diurnal raptor found on the islands of the Pacific. Once present on O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, Moloka‘i, as well as Hawai‘i Island, Buteo solitarius is now a threatened species and found only on the island of Hawai‘i; its population estimated to be less than three thousand birds. W. S. Chillingworth’s photographs, evidence of his deep reverence for the bird, a creature that is the most vivid expression of life, are both transcendent as images and a valuable contribution to the study of this rare native. The photographs remind us of our kinship with wild creatures, many of them clinging to an increasingly precarious existence, as well as of our responsibility to preserve and protect them. Together with accompanying essays by John L. Culliney and Nathan Napoka that are equally scholarly and poetic, the images give an illuminating sense of the ‘io in its island refuge. Despite the inevitable encroachment of the modern world, the Hawaiian hawk has until now managed to survive, a reminder of a not-so-distant past of chiefly kingdoms and isolated volcanic archipelagoes. Mindful of Hawaii's unfortunate distinction as the extinction capital of the avian world, this book encourages and inspires us to protect and ensure this singular creature's survival. Accompanying the essays is a foreword by writer and cultural representative Hannah Springer.
  15. This easy-to-use, nontechnical and comprehensive field guide introduces beginners of all ages to the marvelous bird life inhabiting northern California, from the Oregon border south to Santa Barbara County and east through mid-San Bernardino County. Stunning full-color photographs of 202 species in their natural surroundings complement descriptions that place each bird in its ecological niche and provide insights into its daily life.
  16. Fast, fierce, bold, and beautiful—a falcon in flight is one of the most thrilling sights in nature. With an unprecedented collection of some of the most extraordinary falcon photographs ever taken,Falcons of North America allows readers to witness these magnificent, enigmatic birds of prey practicing aerial maneuvers, hunting ducks, or attacking pelicans four times their size. Renowned raptor advocate and environmental educator Kate Davis expertly details the lives of the six North American species of true falcons, along with their subspecies. With contagious enthusiasm, she explores everything from anatomy, hunting, courtship, and migration to influences on human cultures, habitat loss, and restoration efforts. With its stunning color photographs and the results of new research never before published in one volume, Falcons of North America is sure to become a staple of any bird lover’s library.
  17. In Fire Birds—Valuing Natural Wildfires and Burned Forests, award-winning science author Sneed B. Collard III challenges society’s negative views toward natural forest fires. By focusing on the research of biologist Richard Hutto, Collard reveals the complex relationships between fire and thriving plant and animal communities. The book especially focuses on the heavy use of burned forests by dozens of bird species—and debunks the idea that burned forests are worthless wastelands. Besides delivering a powerful environmental message, Fire Birds couldn’t be more timely. With record numbers of acres burning every year, pressure to suppress wildfires and “salvage log” burned forests has never been greater. Stunning photographs and clear text deliver the message that recent fire policies have been backfiring badly.
  18. Beloved as the herald of spring, cuckoos have held a place in our affections for centuries. The oldest song in English celebrates the cuckoo's arrival, telling us that 'Sumer is icumen in'. But for many other birds the cuckoo is a signal of doom, for it is Nature's most notorious cheat. Cuckoos across the world have evolved extraordinary tricks to manipulate other species into raising their young. How do they get away with it? In this enormously engaging book, naturalist and scientist Nick Davies reveals how cuckoos trick their hosts. Using shrewd detective skills and field experiments, he uncovers an evolutionary arms race, in which hosts evolve better defences against cuckoos and cuckoos, in turn, evolve novel forms of trickery. This is a fascinating corner of Darwin's 'entangled bank', where creatures are continually evolving to keep up with changes in their rivals. Lively field drawings by James McCallum, and remarkable photographs, show cuckoos in action: from the female cuckoo laying her beautifully disguised egg, to the cuckoo chick ejecting the host's eggs and young from the nest to ensure it gets the full attention of its foster parents. Cuckoo offers a new insight not only into the secret lives of these extraordinary birds, but also into how cheating evolves and thrives in the natural world.
  19. The Iberian Peninsula is one of Europe's most ornithologically varied regions offering a host of regional specialities. It includes famous birding hotspots such as the Coto Donaña wetlands, mountainous areas such as the Picos de Europa and the Pyrenees, the Mediterranean cork and holm oak forests of the southwest, the migration crossroads of the Strait of Gibraltar and the steppe-like plains of Extremadura and Alentejo. Large numbers of birders from around Europe visit the region to see this wealth of winged wildlife, but to date there has been no comprehensive regional avifauna in English. Birds of the Iberian Peninsula is a national avifauna that fills this gap in the ornithological literature. Full-colour throughout, the book begins with authoritative introductory chapters covering subjects such as geography, climate, habitats, the history of Iberian ornithology and the composition of the avifauna. The species accounts then cover every species recorded in mainland Spain, the Balearic Islands, Portugal, Gibraltar and Andorra, including the many vagrants. For each species there is detailed treatment of distribution – with maps of breeding and wintering ranges – habitat selection, population trends, historical and current status, migration and conservation.
  20. A respected author and scholar, Paul A. Johnsgard has spent a lifetime observing the natural delights of Nebraska’s woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands. Seasons of the Tallgrass Prairie collects his musings on Nebraska’s natural history and the issues of conservation facing our future. Johnsgard crafts essays featuring snow geese, owls, hummingbirds, and other creatures against the backdrop of Great Plains landscapes. He describes prairie chickens courting during predawn hours and the calls of sandhill cranes; he evokes the magic of lying upon the prairie, hearing only the sounds of insects and the wind through the grasses. From reflections following a visit to a Pawnee sacred site to meditations on the perils facing the state’s finite natural resources,Seasons of the Tallgrass Prairie celebrates the gifts of a half century spent roaming Nebraska’s back roads, trails, and sometimes-forgotten places.
  21. Colorful, noisy, and brash, the American Kestrel is the most endearing of North America's raptors. With its vivid rufous and blue-gray plumage, peppered with dashes of black and white, this bird of prey is instantly recognizable to both novice and expert bird watchers, whether it's diving for an insect on the wing or hovering over an open field while hunting for mice. The American Kestrel's distinctive call, readily heard from miles away, is another identifier that makes this predator more noticeable than others. There's no mistaking its klee, klee, klee, from which it received the nickname 'killy hawk.' In American Kestrel: Pint-sized Predator, part natural history, part photographic exploration, renowned bird expert and master educator Kate Davis delves into the world of the American Kestrel, inviting you into the safe confines of its cavity nest and favored habitats. You'll learn about the American Kestrel's hunting tactics and prey, breeding strategies, migration paths and patterns, and the kestrel's current status - their numbers are declining, and nobody's quite sure why. Davis enthusiastically imparts the wisdom she has gained through extensive research and firsthand experience. One hundred astonishing photos shot by Davis and award-winning photographer Rob Palmer illustrate in full-color glory the story Davis deftly weaves.
  22. The Merlin is a fascinating small falcon, standing outside the usual grouping of the 'True Falcons', and with a range that is confined to northern climes, an exclusive preference that is shared by only one other, the much larger Gyrfalcon. This is the first comprehensive book on the species, covering its complete circumpolar range. The Merlin starts with a general comments on the evolution of the True Falcons and thoughts on their grouping, then covers the general characteristics of the Merlin, the species' habitat, its diet, breeding (territory, displays, pair formation, nest sites, eggs, chick growth, nest predation and breeding success), migration and wintering, survival, the Merlin's friend and foes, and estimations of the world population. It also includes data gathered with a unit flown on a male Merlin.
  23. Birds were 'the objects of my greatest delight,' wrote John James Audubon (1785-1851), founder of modern ornithology and one of the world's greatest bird painters. His masterpiece, The Birds of America depicts almost five hundred North American bird species, each image-lifelike and life size-rendered in vibrant color. Audubon was also an explorer, a woodsman, a hunter, an entertaining and prolific writer, and an energetic self-promoter. Through talent and dogged determination, he rose from backwoods obscurity to international fame. In This Strange Wilderness, award-winning author Nancy Plain brings together the amazing story of this American icon's career and the beautiful images that are his legacy. Before Audubon, no one had seen, drawn, or written so much about the animals of this largely uncharted young country. Aware that the wilderness and its wildlife were changing even as he watched, Audubon remained committed almost to the end of his life 'to search out the things which have been hidden since the creation of this wondrous world.' This Strange Wilderness details his art and writing, transporting the reader back to the frontiers of early nineteenth-century America.
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