Birds of North America

I have both the Peterson Field Guide to Birds of North America and the Audubon Bird guide that I use for more in-depth information and identifications, however, this First guide is always sitting in my glove box. It's small and easy to stash in the car or your pocket. I think for anything beyond casual observation, you definitely need a more in-depth guide, but for the common bird species you are likely to see, its great. If you're looking for an affordable, portable reference, this is it. I really like the First Guide series.

This is a great first book for those who think they may be interested in birding. It is small, easy to carry, and inexpensive. The book begins with a tutorial on the basics of bird identification including wing patterns and shapes, tails, bills/beaks -- and habitat and behaviors. Then if provides some simple silhouettes to guide the reader to likely matches. The color illustration are well drawn and information is given to help identify the differences between male and female birds. A great first resource for young and beginning birders.

This book is just the right size to put in your pocket & head for the woods, it's a very handy tool when out birdwatching! Love it! Diane

If you're looking for a book that will show you the male and female of the species, this is it. It gives size and tells where the birds winter. It has a picture of each bird and if the male and female differ in appearance, it has a picture of both. Great little book. Very reasonably priced