The most complete and up-to-date guide to the birds of the region. Revised and updated with the newest findings on vocalizations and taxonomy, including several taxa newly recorded for the region, species whose voice was previously unknown, and additional newly recognised species. Species lists follow familiar Peters order except where changes are well-corroborated by recent research. Vol. 1 (Field Guide): Now more user-friendly than ever, including vocalization descriptions for almost every species Covers all South Asian birds (including Afghanistan and Chagos). Over 3400 illustrations appear in 180 plates painted especially for this book by expert artists. These depict all known regional species and most distinctive subspecies and plumages. Over 1450 colour maps, based primarily on verified records, represent the ranges of each regularly occurring species and many distinctive races, and distinguish migratory routes from winter ranges. Maps are annotated as to geographic variation, status and habitat. Concise texts give key identification features of each species. To assist in locating groups within the text, illustrated plate keys are provided in the endpapers Vol. 2 (Attributes and Status): Contains much new information and many revised taxonomic treatments. Alternative names are listed and taxonomic issues are summarized. Specimen measurements specially taken for this book are presented for each species. Complete data about identification, variation, status and distribution, voice, and habits are provided for each species. Problematic records are discussed. Vocalizations are described from recordings, and there are over 1000 sonograms, now with English name labels. Appendices include the region's first hypothetical species list, a gazetteer, brief ornithological histories, and lists of taxonomic changes, regional specimen holdings, and threatened species. A comprehensive index allows users to find whatever names are most familiar to them. Maps indicate geopolitical names, topography, habitats, and bird species diversity and endemism.

From river otters and minks to bobcats, pikas, and flying squirrels, California boasts a diverse and intriguing fauna. But many of these animals can be secretive, shy, and nocturnal and observing them in the wild can be difficult. During the past two decades, the first edition of this popular guide introduced thousands to California's mammals by describing techniques for recognizing their presence, and when possible, methods for watching them in their natural habitats. "Mammals of California" is now completely revised and updated throughout, making it an ideal companion in the field or classroom. It includes 144 line drawings, 143 range maps, and 18 illustrated color plates. It gives valuable overviews of mammal evolution, biology and anatomy, natural history, and conservation. It features an expanded and updated section on diseases harbored by wild mammals that can affect humans - including Lyme disease and Hanta virus.

"Hans Peeters has done it again. His stellar "Field Guide to Owls of California and the West" is a fitting companion to his recent, acclaimed "Raptors of California." "Owls" is not only an excellent field guide, but also an amazing primer on owl biology and behavior. It sets a new standard and, what's more, is both a visual treat and a captivating read."--Clay Sutton, coauthor of "How to Spot an Owl" and other books
"An enjoyable and wonderfully illustrated companion to "Raptors of California," Treating the relatively familiar Great Horned Owl and obliging Burrowing Owl with the same skill as those ghostly forest species that are rarely more than disembodied voices for most of us, this book provides keen insights on the natural history of our most mysterious group of birds and sheds light on the complex conservation issues that face many owl species."--Kimball L. Garrett, Ornithology Collections Manager, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
"This is the owl book I've been waiting for. Peeters has delivered an exquisitely illustrated, thoroughly researched, and engagingly written guide that will be as valuable to young students as it will be to seasoned biologists."--Allen Fish, Director, Golden Gate Raptor Observatory

Raptors--the charismatic group of birds that includes hawks, eagles, and falcons--evoke power, swiftness, and grace. Raptors, or birds of prey, gaze calmly about while at rest, exuding confidence and nobility, and, while soaring aloft, they are absolute icons of the California landscape. Featuring descriptions of every diurnal California raptor, this state-of-the-art, beautifully illustrated guide is the first to combine identification of these important birds with a comprehensive discussion of their natural history. Raptors of California notes well-established field marks in addition to introducing several new pointers that help distinguish especially difficult species. More than a field guide, the book also includes information on raptor anatomy, foraging, reproduction, movement, where and how to observe raptors, human-raptor interactions, raptor conservation, endangered species, caring for injured hawks, falconry, and more. Of special interest is the inclusion of previously unpublished descriptions of raptor behavior and many fascinating anecdotes and vivid observations from the field that provide new insights into the lives of these captivating birds. * Covers 27 species, with range maps for the 18 species regularly occurring in California * 104 color figures include photographs and wash drawings illustrating habitats, anatomy, field marks, and behavior * 12 full-page color plates show the various plumages of each species--including rarities--as well as their appearance in flight * Highly readable and accessible, even when covering complicated topics such as flight and evolutionary adaptations