John P. O'Neill

A comprehensive field guide to the birds of Peru. More than 1,890 species - nearly one fifth of the world’s birds - have been recorded in Peru, which hosts one of the richest avifaunas of any country in the world, including a mind-boggling 113 endemics. This field guide offers full coverage for every species that occurs in the country. 307 superb, high-quality plates include full coverage of distinct plumages, subspecific variation sexual and age variation and morphs. The facing text features concise descriptions that discuss key identification criteria, status, vocalisations and distribution, with colour distribution maps. A landmark publication that was the product of almost 40 years of research, expeditions and study, this remarkable book remains the standard work for Peru. Authoritative yet portable and suitable for field use, it is a must-have for any ornithologist or birder visiting the country.

What makes any bird a "great" bird? For some birders, it's the rarity of a species that they've finally added to their life list after years of patient watching. Others will tell you that the great birds are the most beautiful ones. But most people know that the great birds are simply the ones we like the best, rare or common-the ones that have imprinted themselves indelibly on our lives. This beautiful book presents exquisite paintings of forty-eight Texas birds chosen by John O'Neill and Suzanne Winckler as their own personal "greats." Some of the birds are as common as they are beloved. Others are definitely life-list birds-rare, beautiful, exotic-sounding, or all three at once. The authors have also gathered a flock of well-known Texas birders and nature writers to offer personal, scientific, or literary observations about each bird. In all, forty-eight writers, one to a bird, are included here. These beautifully detailed paintings and the observations that accompany them make a convincing case that these are, indeed, the great Texas birds. Whether you're a serious birder or simply a backyard bird watcher, you'll find in this book a "lovely edifice" where people who care about birds can be together.