Best Bird Field Guides of 2025

The Field Guide to Dumb Birds of North America is a hilarious and snarky illustrated handbook that identifies 50 common North American dumb birds. Author Matt Kracht describes the annoying calls, dumb migratory patterns, and downright tacky markings of each bird with humorous, yet angry, ink drawings. This book is perfect for both bird lovers and those who have a disdain for birds. The Field Guide to Dumb Birds of North America is a unique addition to any coffee table or bar top, and makes a great gift for any occasion.

The National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds: Eastern Region, Revised Edition is a must-have for every birdwatcher. It covers over 500 bird species found east of the Rocky Mountains and includes full-color photographic identification pictures, range maps, and sections on bird-watching, accidental species, and endangered birds. The guide features definitive text on the bird's voice, nesting habits, habitat, range, and interesting behaviors. The durable vinyl binding makes it a portable companion for birdwatching in the field. This comprehensive guidebook is easy to use and handsomely produced, making it an essential addition to any birdwatcher's library.

The Peterson Field Guide to Birds of Eastern & Central North America, Seventh Ed. is a classic and best-selling field guide for birders of all levels. It is trusted for its famous identification system and unparalleled illustrations. This updated version features new and updated text, range maps, and art that reflect current knowledge in ornithology. The author, Roger Tory Peterson, is a renowned naturalist who received every major award for ornithology, natural science, and conservation. The book is a must-have for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Under the Henfluence is a fascinating memoir and culture report by Tove Danovich, a journalist who finds herself obsessed with raising chickens. In this book, she explores the quirky, mysterious world of backyard chickens and the people who love them. Through her interviews with breeders, trainers, and rescuers, Danovich uncovers the complex relationship between humans and chickens. Her heartfelt anecdotes from her own henhouse add depth and emotion to the story. This book is not just for chicken enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in the human-animal bond and the impact of industrial agriculture. Overall, Under the Henfluence is a unique and enjoyable read.

The Smithsonian Handbooks: Birds of North America -- Eastern Region is an essential reference guide for birdwatchers, covering 706 species of birds known to breed east of the 100th meridian in the United States and Canada. Published in partnership with the Smithsonian Institution, the book provides full-page profiles with precise descriptions, annotated photographs, and artworks to highlight the key field marks of each species. The book also includes information on each bird's habits, vocalizations, behavior, breeding, nesting, population, and conservation concerns. The most commonly seen birds are shown in clear, full-color photographs, making differentiation easy. This book is the perfect bird field guide for both armchair bird enthusiasts and dedicated bird watchers in North America.

The book "What It's Like to Be a Bird" by David Sibley is an excellent guide for birders and non-birders alike. With more than 330 new illustrations by the author, it covers over 200 species of birds and answers the most frequently asked questions about their behaviors. Sibley's expertise and exacting artwork bring the observed behaviors of birds to life, making it the perfect occasion for parents and grandparents to share their love of birds with young children. The book is nontechnical and easy to read, making it accessible to everyone. Overall, "What It's Like to Be a Bird" is an informative and beautifully illustrated book that is sure to inspire and excite anyone interested in birds.

The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Eastern North America: Second Edition is a must-have for birders, featuring 650 bird species found east of the Rocky Mountains, with stunningly accurate illustrations and updated information on frequency, nesting, behavior, and more. The guide also includes over 600 updated maps and a new design for easy comparison. David Allen Sibley's expertise and attention to detail make this guide the most authoritative and comprehensive available. This book is perfect for both novice and experienced birders and will make a valuable addition to any collection.

The Field Guide to Dumb Birds of the Whole Stupid World is a hilarious sequel to the bestselling parody book, The Field Guide to Dumb Birds of North America. Author Matt Kracht identifies the stupidest birds from all over the world with snarky yet accurate names and humorous illustrations. The book includes a matching game, a bird descriptor checklist, and tips on how to identify a bird, making it both entertaining and educational. This profanity-laden handbook is perfect for hardcore birders and casual bird lovers (and haters) alike. Overall, this book is a great gift for anyone who loves or hates birds and appreciates humor.

The National Geographic Backyard Guide to the Birds of North America, 2nd Edition is an excellent resource for both amateur and experienced birdwatchers. The book presents 150 of the most common and interesting birds in North America, complete with identification tips, behavior, vocal descriptions, and more. The new edition also includes a "Backyard Basics" section by renowned birdwatcher Noah Strycker, with tips on attracting and feeding birds and creating bird-friendly landscapes. The book's comprehensive range maps, identification artwork, and bite-sized facts make it a must-have for bird enthusiasts. Overall, this book is well-organized, informative, and user-friendly.

The Peterson Field Guide to Medicinal Plants and Herbs of Eastern & Central N. America: Third Edition is an updated version of the popular guidebook on medicinal plants. Written by Steven Foster and James A. Duke, who have over 100 years of combined experience in the field, the guidebook provides clear and concise information on over 530 medicinal plants found in the eastern and central United States and Canada. The book includes over 700 images and an organization-by-color system, making it easy to identify plants. Overall, this guidebook is an excellent resource for anyone interested in herbal remedies and natural supplements.