Traces the world migration routes of over 100 species. An illustrated introduction explains flight techniques, feeding, biology and navigation including the amazing results of new satellite tracking. Additional sections focus on the current environmental threats to migratory species and conservation initiatives worldwide. A supplementary catalogue details the routes of 500 additional migrant bird species. With stunning maps and artwork throughout, this authoritative and up-to-date guide will captivate amateur bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike. From cranes and cuckoos to wagtails and woodpeckers, this indispensable reference reveals the mysteries of these remarkable journeys.
Orignially published in 1995 and out of print since 2000, this new edition has been completely revised and updated, with new photographs and re-drawn maps. We currently list the US paperback version of the second edition, as the UK hardback version of the second edition has gone out of print.
- Foreword
- Using this book
- Birds on the move
- North American migrants
- Eurasian migrants
- Winter visitors from the far north
- Southern hemisphere migrants
- Migratory sea birds
- Almost migrations
- Catalogue of migrants
Index
Further reading
Acknowledgements
General editor Jonathan Elphick is a natural history author, editor and consultant who specialises in ornithology. During a career spanning almost 40 years, he has worked on many books, including the award-winning Birdwatcher's Handbook and Birds: The Art of Ornithology.
"The photos and illustrations in this large volume are so beautiful that one is tempted to skim the text [...] That, however, would be a mistake: while brief, the text provides all the information readers need to understand the how, why and where of bird migration."
– Publishers Weekly (starred review)
":A stunning book"
– John Ingham, in the Daily Express
"The wonder of migration is present on every page of this meticulously researched book [...] as an authoritative reference for the general reader, it comes highly recommended."
– Ben Hoare, BBC Wildlife Magazine
"Overall, the production oozes quality [...] a well explained and fairly balanced overview of our current knowledge of migration, written in an easily accessible style."
– David Parkin, in British Birds Magazine
"A fascinating insight into the complexities of migration."
– Mary Skipwith, in The Field Magazine
"Attractive, readable book [...] this is one of those books from which anyone – whether beginner or expert – will learn at least something."
– Stephen Moss, in Birdwatch Magazine