Birds of New Zealand – A photographic guide put together by Paul Scofield and Brent Stephenson, published last year by Auckland University Press, it has information on 365 species of our birds.

I have been working my way through this amazingly interesting book. It is not the sort of book you just pick up and read from cover to cover. Reading is only part of it, there are so many wonderful photographs to examine and admire.

As one reviewer said, “It is an essential guide to the birds of New Zealand”. With more than 1000 colour photographs, and maps to pinpoint locations, the book covers species that occur naturally in the wild, those that have established wild populations and also rare visitors.

The introduction alone has a plethora of information, including tips on photographing birds and advice on learning to identify songs and calls.Taking pride of place as the first bird in the book are Kiwi – all five of them.

The introduction to each also gives the reader an indication of its current status. I.e. At risk, Critically endangered, Threatened, Endangered, Self introduced, Rare vagrant, Common migrant, Abundant naturalised introduction and so forth.

Jodi Salinsky of Southern Bird wrote “Overall, this book gets an A+. It is a “must have” extremely current resource for the naturalist, avian enthusiast, novice bird watcher and serious birder alike.”

Jim Mora, Radio NZ National said “Two fantastic talents involved – Brent Stephenson the photographer and Paul Scofield the natural historian. That’s a great collaboration.”

Available from all good booksellers, $59.99.

Flight has one of these books to give away to a lucky Ducks Unlimited member.

To go into the draw send me an email with Bird Book in the subject line. Include your address and phone number, or put your address and phone number on the back of an envelope and post it to me.

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Post: Liz Brook, 766 Beaconsfield Valley Rd, RD9, Feilding 4779.
Deadline is August 15.