Presents an introduction to North American owls, listing forty-six species and describing their physical features, hunting behavior, life cycles, territorial calls, habitats, and the human and environmental threats to their existence.

Provides general information on the behavior of owls and specific information about the physical characteristics and behavior of the twenty-one North American species.

An examination of the biology and environment of all 23 species of the North American owl.

"With detailed information about identification, calls, habitat, breeding, nesting, and behavior, this reference guide has the most up-to-date information about natural history, taxonomy, biology, ecology, migration and conservation status."--Book jacket.

"For anyone who appreciates wild things and wild places, each of Paul Bannick's stunning photographs is worth ten thousand words." - Ted Williams, Audubon--Moira Macdonald "The Birding Wire"

An intimate blend of personal field notes, rich natural history, and stunning photographs in the wild, this perfect holiday book for all bird-watchers provides an in-depth look at two of our most iconic--and important-- bird species. Great for photography lovers, conservationists and backyard enthusiasts alike, it includes an overview map of habitats and a foreword by award-winning artist and writer Tony Angell.Every wild place and urban area in North America hosts an owl or a woodpecker species, while healthy natural places often boast representatives of both. The diversity of these two families of birds, and the ways in which they define and enrich the ecosystems they inhabit, are the subject of this vivid new book by photographer and naturalist Paul Bannick. The Owl and the Woodpecker showcases a sense of these birds' natural rhythms, as well as the integral spirit of our wild places. Based on hundreds of hours in the field photographing these fascinating and wily birds, Bannick evokes all 41 North American species of owls and woodpeckers, across 11 key habitats. And by revealing the impact of two of our most iconic birds, Bannick has created a wholly unique approach to birding and conservation.

Birds of prey can be particularly difficult to track for a variety of reasons: - Nocturnal behavior - Remote habitats - Migratory patterns - Swift flight speeds Hawks and Owls depicts both the subtle differences and rich diversity among these awe-inspiring birds. With crisp, clean photographs and precise identification notes, this guide makes quick and accurate classifications easier. The families of birds includes: New world vultures Osprey, kites, eagles, hawks and allies Caracara and falcons Barn and bay owls Typical owls The information on each species is concisely organized and includes the differences between male and female, seasonal and immature plumage, morphs and distinctive markings. Color pictures and range maps accompany the text. The 180 photographs from award-winning photographers show these birds in their natural environments through the seasons. Comparison pages group similar-looking birds on a single page for quick reference. Hawks and Owls is a sturdy, pocket-sized field guide that will be indispensable to naturalists, students and birders at all levels of experience, from Florida to Ontario.