Slow Birding: The Art and Science of Enjoying the Birds in Your Own Backyard by Joan E. Strassmann

 Slow Birding: The Art and Science of Enjoying the Birds in Your Own Backyard by Joan E. Strassmann (352 Pages)

Summary: Many birders travel far and wide to popular birding destinations to catch sight of rare or “exotic” birds. In Slow Birding, evolutionary biologist Joan E. Strassmann introduces readers to the joys of birding right where they are. In this inspiring guide to the art of slow birding, Strassmann tells colorful stories of the most common birds to be found in the United States—birds we often see but might not have considered deeply before. For example, northern cardinals thrive in the city, where they are free from predators. White brows on a male white-throated sparrow indicate that he is likely to be a philanderer. This essential guide to the fascinating world of common, everyday birds features:

• detailed portraits of individual bird species and the scientists who have discovered and observed them
• advice and guidance on what to look for when slow birding, so that you can uncover clues to the reasons behind specific bird behaviors
• bird-focused activities that will open your eyes more to the fascinating world of birds

Slow Birding is the perfect guide for the birder looking to appreciate the beauty of the birds right in their own backyard, observing keenly how their behaviors change from day to day and season to season.

Opinion: I've really enjoyed backyard birding since moving back to Saint Louis, so this book was a perfect fit for me. I learned a lot about the history and personalities of the birds I see on a regular basis. Strassmann lives in Saint Louis and focuses primarily on parks and birds in the area, so it is a great read for locals. I appreciate how the book is divided up which makes it easy to take breaks in between chapters as this book is slow.