DigeeBooks

The bird book for birders and nonbirders alike that will excite and inspire by providing a new and deeper understanding of what common, mostly backyard, birds are doing—and why: "Can birds smell?"; "Is this the same cardinal that was at my feeder last year?"; "Do robins 'hear' worms?"

"The book's beauty mirrors the beauty of birds it describes so marvelously." —NPR

In What It's Like to Be a Bird, David Sibley answers the most frequently asked questions about the birds we see most often. This special, large-format volume is geared as much to nonbirders as it is to the out-and-out obsessed, covering more than two hundred species and including more than 330 new illustrations by the author. While its focus is on familiar backyard birds—blue jays, nuthatches, chickadees—it also examines certain species that can be fairly easily observed, such as the seashore-dwelling Atlantic puffin.

David Sibley's exacting artwork and wide-ranging expertise bring observed behaviors vividly to life. (For most species, the primary illustration is reproduced life-sized.) And while the text is aimed at adults—including fascinating new scientific research on the myriad ways birds have adapted to environmental changes—it is nontechnical, making it the perfect occasion for parents and grandparents to share their love of birds with young children, who will delight in the big, full-color illustrations of birds in action.

Unlike any other book he has written, What It's Like to Be a Bird is poised to bring a whole new audience to David Sibley's world of birds.

What It's Like to Be a Bird: From Flying to Nesting, Eating to Singing--What Birds Are Doing, and Why by David Allen Sibley is a fascinating exploration into the world of birds. Sibley takes readers on a captivating journey through the lives of these feathered creatures, delving into their behaviors, habitats, and unique adaptations.

This comprehensive guide offers an in-depth look at bird flight, showcasing the remarkable capabilities and diversity of birds in the sky. From soaring eagles to hovering hummingbirds, Sibley unravels the secrets of avian locomotion, explaining how birds achieve lift, maneuver through the air, and navigate long-distance migrations.

Beyond flight, the book explores the intricate nesting behaviors of birds. Sibley describes the diverse nesting strategies employed by different species, from treetop nests to underground burrows, revealing the remarkable ingenuity and resilience of birds in creating safe and suitable homes for their young.

The book also delves into the fascinating world of bird communication. Sibley reveals the hidden language of birdsong, explaining how different species use vocalizations to attract mates, defend territories, and communicate with their young. From dawn choruses to territorial disputes, Sibley brings the vibrant sounds of the avian world to life.

Furthermore, "What It's Like to Be a Bird" explores the diverse diets of birds, ranging from nectar-sipping hummingbirds to fish-catching ospreys. Sibley discusses the nutritional needs of different species and how they have adapted their beaks, feet, and other physical features to efficiently obtain their preferred foods.

In addition to these topics, the book provides a comprehensive field guide to common birds of North America. Sibley's renowned illustrations and detailed descriptions help readers identify birds in the field, making it an indispensable resource for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Throughout the book, Sibley's passion for birds and his extensive knowledge shine through. He offers a unique perspective on the avian world, revealing the wonders and complexities of these captivating creatures. "What It's Like to Be a Bird" is a must-read for anyone interested in ornithology, natural history, or simply the beauty and diversity of the natural world.