Whether undertaken for practical reasons (insect control) or pure enjoyment, attracting birds to one's own backyard is an activity that can involve the whole family. In this personable, informal guide, Mahnken demonstrates both her knowledge and her love for birds as she introduces 135 North American species, discusses nesting cycles, and supplies tips on feeding and encouraging feathered friends to visit on a regular basis. This isn't as definitive, slick, or handy as some of the pocket field guides. But it's loaded with plenty of black-and-white and color pictures (not seen in finished form), which, when coupled with the book's quick facts about nesting, habits, range, size, and more, will be great for new bird spotters.
Stephanie Zvirin
Review
“At a time when ‘backyard’ bird books are tripping off the presses at a dizzying rate, it is a pleasure to find one so clearly superior.” — Bird Watcher’s Digest
“[t]he most valuable part of the book may be its appendix, which lists common types of bird feed … and what birds they attract.” — Sunset
“Keep this volume handy, as you’ll use it again and again.” — Country Living
“[C]ontains valuable information on food and nesting habits, as well as great ideas for bird baths.” — Denver Post
“… great for new bird spotters.” — Booklist
“No coffee-table book, this. You’ll keep it on the breakfast table, or wherever you watch your feeder from.” — St. Louis Post-Dispatch
“The text is easy reading and will tempt the beginning bird watcher to do more and learn more. This is a very good buy for the price.” — Richmond Times-Dispatch
“a plethora of interesting facts on the habits and habitats of more than 135 birds.” — Houston Chronicle
