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September isn’t over yet (there has been a good bit going on other than birding), but there’s still time to add to your birding library. This month, I’m featuring three books that offer outstanding insights into different types of birds, giving birders a new perspective on these varied aspects of international featherdom.

Birdology

Birdology provides intimate insights of a wide range of different types of birds – hawks, pigeons, parrots, etc. Many of those insights and anecdotes, however, are based on observations of captive birds, which can be very different than the insights birders would expect from wild individuals.

Still, the outstanding descriptions – such as hummingbirds described as “bubbles fringed with iridescent feathers – air wrapped in light” make this book a pleasant and relaxing read. At the same time, Montgomery minimizes anthropomorphization of the birds, which keeps the book focused on different informational aspects such as physiology, behavior, and intelligence.

Unique trivia is interwoven throughout this whimsical book, providing even more fun information for birders to enjoy (and great for impressing one’s bird-loving friends). A great read to develop even more appreciation of birds!

The Gull Next Door

The casual, easy tone of The Gull Next Door is fun to read and Taylor’s personal anecdotes and incredible detail will immediately resonate with gull lovers. This is true no matter which exact species of gulls are closest to your home territory or what your personal interactions with gulls may have been over the years – positive or negative.

Some of the information can start to get very technical which can be off-putting for more casual readers, and the lack of a regional map may hinder those unfamiliar with England’s geography. Still, similarities between different gull species make this book highly recommended for all larophiles around the world, and will help every birder develop a deeper appreciation for just how distinctive gulls are in the bird world.

Winging It

While a deep dive into how life can interfere with pet ownership and one’s love of birds, Winging It is more of a personal life memoir than an overall birding book. Still, there are unique insights as a cautionary tale about owning a parrot. Many birders think having their own personal bird would be the ultimate in appreciating birds, but it is more of a commitment than many people realize. These birds are long-lived, have very intricate personalities, and can put high demands on their owners. No matter how life changes, the birds must still be cared for.

Nevertheless, the book does offer an interesting look at another aspect of bird-dom, and Gardiner strongly advocates for responsible pet ownership as well as rescue organizations that assist with captive parrots and other birds. Certainly a worthwhile read for any birder who even slightly considers becoming a bird-owner!

Want even more books in your birding library? Check back next month!