The Secret Lives of Hummingbirds (Paperback)

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Editorial Reviews

Review

"Even a professional ornithologist would enjoy this booklet. A surprisingly large range of topics are covered in the book, including (to list but a few) anatomy, breeding, coevolution of hummingbirds and flowers, migrathion, and how to attract the birds." --South Dakota Bird Notes (South Dakota Ornithologist's Union)

Product Description

There is a sense of mystery that surrounds hummingbirds: Why are they so small? What makes it possible for them to hover? Why are they so colorful? Do they ever rest? This book gives the often amazing answers. The Secret Lives of Hummingbirds takes the reader into the high-energy world of North America's smallest bird. Hearts that beat 500 to more than 1200 times per minute. Wings that buzz at as much as 52 beats per second. And respiration that can clock in at up to 600 breaths per minute. But their energetic lifestyle is only one facet of the secret lives of hummingbirds. Illustrated with twenty-nine full-color photographs, The Secret Lives of Hummingbirds is a treat for birders, naturalists, or anyone else who can't resist the allure of these eye-catching, pugnacious miniature birds. The book also includes a close-up look at the Desert Museum's famous hummingbird aviary as well as tips on how to enjoy and attract wild hummingbirds. It's no wonder that The Secret Lives of Hummingbirds is our most popular publication!

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Product Details

• Paperback: 22 pages
• Publisher: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Press (April 1, 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1886679002
• ISBN-13: 978-1886679009
• Product Dimensions: 7.9 x 7.8 x 0.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (13 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #93,343 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

38 of 38 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful book!!, November 2, 2003

By	merrymousies (Waterford, VA USA) - See all my reviews (TOP 500 REVIEWER)

I bought this book for my dad who lives in Tuscon AZ because of all the different species he has there (here in VA we're blessed with the Ruby-throated little sprites but no others). The pictures in this book are worth it alone. They're close-up and amazing! It really does give you a good peek into the lives of hummers. Highly recommend especially as a gift book for an overview of hummers (other books give more in-depth details of their real lives, miration but this gives a great overview)

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful Book that Ends All Too Soon, July 9, 2006

By	Tahir J. Naim (California, USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

The book is very readable and has lots of interesting information about hummingbirds. Makes me want to visit the museum now for a photo tour. The book is only 22 pages long, however, so be aware of that in ordering.

32 of 37 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great little book, June 11, 2000

By	Jennifer Rasmussen (Texas) - See all my reviews

I bought this book when I visited the Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum. It was nice and short to read, with a variety of topics covered. I really enjoyed it, and the pictures were great too.