Shorebirds of North America, Europe, and Asia: A Guide to Field Identification (Princeton Field Guides, 40)

Many shorebird species can occasionally be seen in other continents than where they normally occur, more so than any other bird group. Thus, for birders who like to see rarities (which is nearly all of them), these birds are very special. But they can also be difficult to identify to the species level. Hence, it's a good idea to bring out this field guide specifically for shorebirds for the whole northern hemisphere. The drawings are very good, and larger than in most other field guides, thus showing more details of the plumage. Also, there are several plumages per species. Cleverly, the species are grouped according to resemblance in plumage rather than in a strict systematical order. Very handy also is that all flight drawings are grouped separately. The distribution maps are large, thus showing exact occurrences (inasfar known). This is a book to have at hand when visiting coastal areas in the migration season, or when making birding trips to one of the other continents.

The book proved to be very useful, the drawings are very clear, the text are informative and detailed with special emphasis on the differences between similar bird species. Also it is small enough to use it in the field---very important!