This is an excellent regional bird guidebook. Although directed toward newer birders, it yet has good value for the more experienced, and especially for those who lead local birding field trips.
It is 4.5x6 inches in size, and easy to carry in a pack or in the leg pocket of a pair of cargo pants.
The sections for each bird on behavior, voice, and similar species are concise and very specific. Of greatest interest to me are the paragraphs on seasonal occurrence, questions about which often make me pause while trying to recall.
The photo images are remarkably clear. I might only wish for more images, especially of immature forms. The occasional picture of similar species on the same page is very welcome. It is an easy volume to use with a short index on the inside back cover, and is especially helpful in showing a species to newer birders, who may have only gotten a glimpse of a rapidly disappearing warbler.
As a frequent birding field trip leader in San Diego County, this will be the guide that I will now most often carry and recommend for this area. Thanks to the authors.
Peter Thomas
San Diego
