These thoughtful, entertaining essays range from Australia to Antarctica, Siberia to South Africa, Central Park to China. Enthusiasm for this popular recreational activity is apparent in the lengths some birders will go to catch a glimpse of their bird of choice. Diane Ackerman travels to a remote Japanese island, the final fortress of the endangered short-tailed albatross, and breaks three ribs while rock climbing in pursuit. Through binoculars, I see the yellow crowns of the birds, so close now, but still so inaccessible. I'm right on time.
Some writers manage to get startlingly close.
Pamela Conley is happily caught in the middle of a pelican feeding frenzy at a Mexican beach resort. Subtle gestures enacted to display respect and friendship. For others, birds teach lessons about human relationships. Mark Bittner learns how to trust while tending a flock of wild parrots on the deck of his apartment in San Francisco. Birds may bring their gifts in strange and unexpected ways.