ENCOUNTERS WITH AUSTRALIAN BIRDS

BY STEPHANIE JACKSON

Published by New Holland Publishers

Available at book shops and from online retailers.

RRP $35

This entertaining and informative book, which is illustrated with more than 200 stunning images, introduces readers to more than 50 species of birds that inhabit the forests, woodlands and outback areas of Australia.

It’s a unique concept that not only provides an abundance of facts regarding the habitats and physical and behavioural characteristics of each featured species but also relates humorous individual stories of the author’s amazing face to face encounters with some of the country’s most awe-inspiring wild birds – from the majestic Wedge-tailed Eagle to the diminutive yet charismatic Red-capped Robin and the endangered Superb Parrot that’s as beautiful as its name suggests.

You’ll meet hyperactive Superb Fairywrens that, at the author’s campsite, bathed in an unattended bowl of washing up water with their tiny wings stirring a hint of detergent into billowing foam as they seemed more intent on having fun than in the serious business of cleaning their plumage.

You’ll encounter glamorous Major Mitchell cockatoos that seemed as addicted to the pleasures of a feast of wild melons as a knot of frogs at an annual convention of geriatric grasshoppers, and you’ll be introduced to the curious Bush Stone-curlew, a semi-nocturnal bird that, during daylight hours, is in as lively a mood as a gravy-soaked dumpling in a pot of boiling stew.

The book also includes information on the art of bird watching and invaluable advice to ensure that every reader’s journey to an outback or forested bird watching destination is a safe and enjoyable experience.

When reading of the author’s often humorous encounters with birds you’ll probably say, with a touch of envy, “I wish I’d seen that” and be inspired to head to the great outdoors for your own unique and personal encounters with the many amazing and awe-inspiring birds that call Australia home.

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ISBN: 9781925546958

Format: Paperback

Page Extent: 208 pages

Book Size: 210 x 170 mm