Bird Homes and Habitats (Peterson Field Guides/Bird Watcher’s Digest Backyard Bird Guides)
*Starred Review* The author of The Young Birder’s Guide to Birds of North America (2012) and editor of Bird Watcher’s Digest presents a how-to guide on making yards and gardens all over the country more bird-friendly. Beginning with the top-10 things that attract birds to the yard, the author then points out that enjoying the birds attracted to the yard is enhanced by simple things like purchasing a pair of binoculars or adding a water feature. Improving the yard to attract nesting birds involves both planting the correct species for the area and the creation of nest boxes, which leads to a series of profiles of birds that will use either natural cavities or nest boxes. A fine chapter with troubleshooting tips and the answers to frequently asked questions is followed by profiles of 15 “all stars” who have created wonderful backyard bird habitats in various regions of the country. This terrific primer will help all who want to move from a manicured lawn to a backyard bird paradise. --Nancy Bent