Birds of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao
A Site and Field Guide
Robert Dean author Jeffrey V Wells author Allison Childs Wells author
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Cornell University Press
Published:15th Jun '17
Should be back in stock very soon
This essential guide offers insights into over 280 bird species in Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao, making it a must-have for birdwatchers.
The guidebook titled Birds of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao serves as an indispensable resource for bird enthusiasts visiting these stunning Caribbean islands. With over 280 bird species documented, it provides detailed descriptions and directions to prime birdwatching locations, ranging from picturesque white sand beaches to secluded watering holes and the breathtaking national parks. Each site is carefully selected to enhance the birding experience, ensuring that travelers can fully appreciate the avian diversity present in this unique region.
Located in the southwestern Caribbean, Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao—collectively known as the ABCs—boast a rich ecological tapestry that connects them to both the West Indies and the South American mainland. The book features an identification section that highlights endemic subspecies, migratory visitors, and distinctive local species, including the Yellow-shouldered Parrot and the Ruby-topaz Hummingbird. This comprehensive approach allows birders to understand and identify the unique avifauna that inhabit these islands.
In addition to identification, Birds of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao includes insightful introductory sections that delve into the islands' natural history, geography, and ecology. The authors, Jeffrey V. Wells and Allison Childs Wells, share their extensive experience in the region, providing clear maps and notes on species likely to be encountered. A dedicated section on conservation underscores the importance of protecting these birds and their habitats, offering valuable recommendations for preserving the ecological integrity of the islands.
This guide to the more than 280 bird species seen on Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao is accessible to both beginners and experts. In this work that serves as both a site guide and a field guide to the islands' birds, readers will find excellent maps and illustrations along with detailed bird descriptions. The section on conservation adds awareness of the threats to the birds and to the habitats on which they rely. This reliable and enjoyable resource is recommended to public libraries.
-- Thomas E. Baker * American Reference Books Annual *The authors are professional musicians(!), obviously accomplished birders, and well-published authors, and they have produced a really nice book here—although it is not typical of many modern guides. The first 95 pages present detailed information for finding the best birding areas on each island, as well as available amenities (which is very helpful). Approximately 280 species of birds occur in the area, and these are listed and discussed in the middle 190 pages, a considerable departure from text and illustrations occurring on the same page. Species discussions include a brief description, mention of similar species, conservation status, and known range. Following the discussions, 59 attractive color plates contain paintings of all species. The final few pages consider bird conservation on the islands. This book is an absolute must for birders traveling to the islands, but the restricted coverage area will limit desirability for many North American libraries, except those with extensive ornithological holdings.
* Choi- Winner of Choice Magazine Outstanding Academic Title 2017 (United States)
ISBN: 9781501701078
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 907g
488 pages