"Rare Birds of North America" is the first comprehensive illustrated guide to the vagrant birds that occur throughout the United States and Canada. Featuring 275 stunning color plates, this book covers 262 species originating from three very different regions--the Old World, the New World tropics, and the world's oceans. It explains the causes of avian vagrancy and breaks down patterns of occurrence by region and season, enabling readers to see where, when, and why each species occurs in North America. Detailed species accounts describe key identification features, taxonomy, age, sex, distribution, and status.

"Rare Birds of North America" provides unparalleled insights into vagrancy and avian migration, and will enrich the birding experience of anyone interested in finding and observing rare birds.Covers 262 species of vagrant birds found in the United States and CanadaFeatures 275 stunning color plates that depict every speciesExplains patterns of occurrence by region and seasonProvides an invaluable overview of vagrancy patterns and migrationIncludes detailed species accounts and cutting-edge identification tips

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.