The Best
Roger Tory Peterson has been synonymous with bird watching for decades. This book continues to provide an easy to use, understandable source for the casual observer as well as the birding fan with pictures, silhouettes and migration information that we have come to expect from a source with the Peterson name on it.

extremely helpful for the new birder
I have been watching the birds play around in my back yard all my life, but I am brand new at identifying them. It is much more challenging than I expected; I had no idea how many species there are or how complex their markings and other identifiers are. I've always considered myself to be a fairly quick learner, but bird watching nearly stumped me ... until I found this field guide. Those little arrows pointing to pertinent details on the illustrations seem so simple, and yet they make all the difference--especially when I'm in a hurry (which I always am because those bratty birds always flit away before I can take note of the coloring, the beak size and shape, the shape of the tail, etc. etc.). I have a couple field guides that use photos rather than illustrations, and though the books are beautiful, they are not very helpful. I can't wait for Peterson's new North America field guide which will release soon!

Birds, birds, birds
For someone getting more into birdwatching (like me - not a birder yet!), this is an absolute must have. It distills an overwhelming amount of information into an extremely simple-to-use guide. Find "that bird" quickly through pictures or text. Arrows point out sometimes small, distinguishing characteristics that could be overlooked. All text is clear and concise. Flight style descriptions and silhouettes are extremely helpful. Range maps help clarify where you'd see each bird. Small enough to fit in the car's glovebox, a backpack or purse.

Guidebook info aside, the paintings of the birds themselves are breathtaking. To complete one or two bird paintings like those here would be an accomplishment; to complete all of the paintings for this guide, in addition to the other works he created, is stunning. To Roger Tory Peterson was an amazing artist and true genius.

Birds of Eastern and Central North America
Contains detailed information and pictures. Also includes a section of range maps outlining the range of each species during each season. Very interesting!

A must for Bird watching
If you like to watch birds - even from your window - this is a must have!!!