Publisher's Synopsis
How far can birds fly? Where do they go? And why? Follow one of natureâ_Ts most enigmatic and breathtaking spectacles with this stunningly illustrated reference.
The book uses innovative computer-generated maps and the latest results from satellite tracking to trace the migratory journeys of more than 100 bird species from the northern and southern hemispheres. An international team of bird migration experts describe each route and how it is determined by the physical and behavioural characteristics of individual species. Accompanying fact boxes provide essential and up-to-date information on size, weight, wingspan and journey distance. A detailed introduction including flight techniques, navigation, feeding and biology supplements the continent-by-continent survey.
As many of the worldâ_Ts species face extinction, additional sections focus on the current environmental threats to migratory species and conservation initiatives worldwide. With details on the worldâ_Ts greatest viewing places and listings of a further 500 migratory species, this is a comprehensive and compelling guide to these perilous journeys.
