WASHINGTON (Aug. 28, 2003)—NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC REFERENCE ATLAS TO THE BIRDS OF NORTH AMERICA (National Geographic Books, ISBN 0-7922-3373-5, September 2003, $35), an invaluable new book for birders that draws on all of National Geographic’s superb resources, will be available in bookstores beginning September.
Definitive, comprehensive and rich with photographs, illustrations and maps, NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC REFERENCE ATLAS TO THE BIRDS OF NORTH AMERICA covers more than 800 species. Organized by family, each of the 42 chapters begins with an introductory essay by one of 20 leading experts, followed by detailed descriptions of every important characteristic: ornithological classification, body structure and plumage, feeding and breeding behavior, vocalization and more. More than 700 maps show migratory patterns and the birds’ natural range and distribution, while colorful photographs and drawings illustrate distinctive markings. Also included is useful advice on observing each species in the wild, including rarely seen or out-of-range birds that occasionally stray into North America. Each chapter ends with a section on the birds’ status, from overall environmental considerations to conservation efforts.
Designed for clarity and accessibility, and meticulously cross-referenced for ease-of-use, this authoritative atlas was compiled and edited by Mel Baughman, founder and former editor of National Geographic BirdWatcher newsletter. The book is an ideal companion volume to the best-selling “National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of North America.”
Recent surveys show that birding is the largest and fastest-growing outdoor activity in America, with some 60 million participants. Birders are the fastest-growing sector in the U.S. travel market. Each year, almost 25 million people travel specifically to observe and photograph wild birds.