Encounters With Australian Birds Finding inspirations from Australia's amazing birdlife

This unique, entertaining and informative book, which is illustrated with more than 200 stunning images, introduces readers to some 50 species of Australian birds that can be found in habitats ranging from urban backyards to the outback. It not only provides an abundance of facts regarding the habitats and behaviour of each featured species, but also relates the often humorous stories of the author’ s face-to-face encounters with some of the country’ s most awe-inspiring birds, from the majestic Wedge-tailed Eagle to the diminutive yet charismatic Red-capped Robin. You’ ll be introduced to the endangered Superb Parrot that is as beautiful as its name suggests and to hyperactive Superb Fairy-wrens that, when bathing in an unattended bowl of washing-up water at a campsite, seemed more intent on having fun than in the serious business of cleaning their plumage. The book also includes invaluable advice and information on the art of birdwatching and is ideal for both dedicated long-term birdwatchers and those who simply want to learn more about the birds that they encounter when they’ re in the great outdoors.

For almost 20 years Stephanie Jackson’ s work as a freelance travel writer and photographer has revolved around her greatest passion of wildlife, and her photographic work has resulted in her travelling extensively around Australia. Her images have been published in Australian Photography magazine, and also used by Australian tourism authorities in their promotional material and on their websites. Her previous books for Reed New Holland include Australian Wildlife On Your Doorstep and The Practical Gardener's Guide to Trees, Shrubs and Climbers

INTRODUCTION 4 THE ART OF BIRDWATCHING 7 OUTBACK TRAVEL TIPS 15 OWLS AND BIRDS OF PREY 23 PARROTS 49 WATERBIRDS AND WADERS 85 OTHER NON-PASSERINES 125 HONEYEATERS 153 OTHER PASSERINES 169 INDEX 208