Birds play a vital role in the health and well-being of people and the planet. Among other benefits, they:
Support biodiversity by pollinating plants and distributing seeds
Regulate insect populations
Serve as an indicator of environmental health
Signal threats such as climate disruptions, habitat destruction and pollution
Have immense social and cultural value
Contribute to eco-tourism
Captivate our imaginations
Inspire art, literature and technology
I could go on.
To celebrate our feathered friends and to take your avian appreciation to new heights, read on to discover books that explore different types of birds, bird behaviour, the ingenuity of birds and how you can help support birds.
Nests by Susan Ogilvy
Few modern books exist on the topic and this makes Nests both a necessary and enchanting showcase of the architectural ingenuity of birds. This one-of-a-kind book includes stunning illustrations and playful storytelling that will spark curiosity and wonder in readers and bring a new appreciation for this overlooked aspect of bird life.
The Field Guide to Dumb Birds of North America by Matt Kracht
This book is the quintessential companion for bird lovers with a sense of humour. Both educational and entertaining through witty descriptions of 50 birds, their behaviour and unique features, general musings and tips for bird watching alongside whimsical ink drawings make for a memorable, laugh-out-loud read. Both serious and snarky, this national bestseller and fan favourite about all things wings is a hoot!
The Feminist Bird Club’s Birding for a Better World by Sydney Golden Anderson and Molly Adams
Combining the joys of birding with activism, this book brings awareness to inclusivity issues and how to break down barriers in birding communities. It highlights the ecological challenges facing birds and all life on Earth and presents readers with actionable steps they can take toward environmental justice. “Birding is for Everyone” is at the heart of this celebration of birding and the outdoors.
The Genius of Birds by Jennifer Ackerman
Which bird is like Picasso? From solving puzzles to crafting and using intricate tools to understanding the mental state of another individual, author Jennifer Ackerman explores birds as thinkers. A celebration of avian intelligence, The Genius of Birds reveals the surprising ways in which birds communicate with each other, navigate their environments and more.
Best Places to Bird in Ontario by Kenneth Burrell and Michael Burrell
Discover Ontario’s birding hotspots with this user-friendly guidebook. Written by local experts with experience as professional birding guides and field biologists, Best Places to Bird in Ontario is your gateway to birding adventures that features 30 recommended sites including beloved classics and hidden gems, advice on where and when to go for the best results, helpful hints for finding birds and more.
The Thing with Feathers by Noah Strycker
With vivid descriptions and infectious enthusiasm, author Noah Strycker takes readers on a journey of discovery, unlocking fascinating insights into the secrets of bird life in this lyrical gem. In a poetic showcase that weaves together anecdotes, science and history, this book about bird behaviour teaches readers to recognize and appreciate that our non-human kin have their own forms of ingenuity.
I would love to hear from you! Let me know what is on your bookshelf and what you’d recommend adding to this list in the comments below.
Sandra was a communications intern at Ontario Nature. A bird and book lover, Sandra is a communicator always looking for ways to merge her passions for climate action, environmental justice and storytelling.
