Oceanic Birds of the World

A cutting-edge photographic guide to the world's seabirds

Seabirds are among the most remarkable but least known birds, living at sea, far from the view of most people. They present unusual identification challenges: many species look alike and it can be difficult to get good views of birds flying fast from a moving boat. The first field guide to the world's seabirds in over two decades, this exciting and authoritative book draws on decades of firsthand experience at sea. It features clear text filled with original information and new insights and more than 2,200 carefully chosen color images that bring the ocean and its remarkable winged inhabitants to life. Never before have seabirds been presented in such an accessible and comprehensive way.

The introduction covers the many recent developments in seabird taxonomy, which are incorporated into the species accounts, and these accounts are organized into groups that aid in field identification. Each group and each species complex has an introductory overview of its identification challenges, illustrated by clear comparative photos. The text describes flight, age- and moult-related plumage variation, seasonal occurrence patterns, migration routes, and many other characteristics.

The result is an essential guide for exploring the last great frontier of birds.

• A comprehensive, authoritative, and accessible guide to seabirds
  
• Covers over 270 species
  
• Includes more than 2,200 color photos with concise captions noting key features
  
• Includes detailed species comparisons, overviews of the latest taxonomy, tips on how to observe and identify birds at sea, and much more