Texas birdlife is strongly influenced by the incredible diversity of habitats found within its borders. The Rio Grande corridor is a great example of this diversity. From El Paso to Brownsville, this once-majestic river forms the 1,569-mile southern and western borders of Texas. At El Paso, the average rainfall is only nine inches per year compared to the 26-inch annual rainfall ofthe subtropical Lower Rio Grande Valley. In between can be found the magnificent Chihuahuan Desert with its mountain islands, the Stockton and Edwards Plateaus, and the brush-covered plains of South Texas.
Finding all the birds in Texas can be a lifetime pursuit. Basic Texas Birds, an easy-to-use field guide, will help you identify over 180 species of birds that are found across the state, including a selection of the rarer "Texas specialties" that draw birders to Texas from around the world. These are the birds that form the basis of a birder's life list for Texas. Basic Texas Birds is organized by bird families to aid in identifying any bird you see in the wild. It is loaded with resources, including: 200 full-color, close-up photos of the birds State-of-the-art range maps--the most accurate of any currently available--that show each species' distribution within the state Up-to-date species accounts that provide a wealth of current and historical information, including each bird's appearance, habitat, status, and distribution, and that also identify similar species A glossary of terms used in bird identification A list of selected readings for learning more about birds found in Texas The Texas Ornithological Society's list of birds documented in Texas Much more convenient for identifying common birds than a comprehensive state or national field guide, Basic Texas Birds is a must-have resource for both beginning and experienced birders.
Focusing on the rich avian diversity of Texas, this guide offers insights into over 300 bird species found across the state's varied habitats, from deserts to wetlands. It caters to both casual birdwatchers and serious enthusiasts, providing detailed descriptions and expert tips on the best times and locations for birdwatching. Enhanced with hundreds of vibrant photographs, the guide serves as an essential resource for anyone eager to explore the unique birdlife of the Lone Star State.
