The Sibley guide to birds

Published to universal acclaim in 2000, Sibley expands the first edition of his guide by over 50 pages, with more than 100 species added-many rarities had not been included before, one of the few areas of criticism of the book. More than 600 paintings are new, the range maps revised, and information on habitat, behavior, and food preferences-largely lacking previously-enhance this superb guide. Sibley, a gifted artist, paints stylized birds, almost 7,000, capturing beautifully their general impression. He excels in depicting a species' variation, with 25 paintings of herring gull (e.g., "1st winter," "1st summer," etc.) and 41 of the red-tailed hawk. Most field guides are oversimplifications. Sibley's is not, but it avoids being overly detailed. The commonest exotic or nonnative species are given full due, too. This edition again offers detailed descriptions of birds' vocalizations, superior to other guides. Most birders will not want to carry this volume afield (it weighs three lbs.), one reason it is a "guide" rather than a "field guide." Sibley's Eastern North America and Western North America field guides, generated from the first edition, will still suffice for general use. VERDICT Sibley acknowledges 79 top consultants. Nevertheless his splendid guide is a virtuoso performance. Highly recommended for all birding collections.-Henry T. -Armistead, formerly with Free Lib. of Philadelphia (c) Copyright 2014. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.