Author: Richard Grimmett

Publisher:

Published: 2003

Total Pages: 320

ISBN-13: 9780691117386

From the wet evergreen forests and alpine peaks of the Himalayas, to the Thar Desert and the vast wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural habitats that stretch to New Delhi and beyond, northern India is a diverse and welcoming paradise for birders and ecotourists. This field guide provides a concise, fully illustrated introduction to the region's known species. Species that occur regularly are illustrated on 120 color plates by eminent bird illustrators from Europe and India. Just a few of the most spectacular or very big birds include the Himalayan Snowcock, Great Slaty Woodpecker, Great Hornbill, Crested Kingfisher, Blue-Bearded Bee-eater, and Chestnut-winged Cuckoo. The illustrations show distinctive sexual and racial variations whenever possible, as well as immature plumages. Succinct entries on the facing pages highlight plumage, body length and other visible identification traits, voice, altitudinal range and habitats, distribution, and status. Thirty-five of the region's species are threatened with global extinction, in particular the White-rumped Vulture, Siberian Crane, Forest Owlet, Pink-headed Duck, and Himalayan Quail. Introductory sections cover the region's geography and ecology, ten choice birdwatching areas among the many in northern India, plus conservation and general birding advice. Unusually detailed distribution maps are also included, and an appendix describes vagrants and rare species. Anyone contemplating a visit to this accessible, bird-rich region of the subcontinent will want this compact and user-friendly guide. Covers all species known in the region 120 color plates with concise text on facing pages for quick reference and easy identification Concise entries describe appearance, voice, altitudinal range and habitat, distribution, and status Introductory sections cover the region's geography and ecology, plus conversation and general birding advice