Overview

The Salton Sea, California's largest inland lake, supports a spectacular bird population that is among the most concentrated and most diverse in the world. Sadly, this crucial stopover along the Pacific Flyway for migratory and wintering shorebirds, landbirds, and waterfowl is dangerously close to collapse from several environmental threats. This book is the first thoroughly detailed book to describe the birds of Salton Sea, more than 450 species and subspecies in all. A major contribution to our knowledge about the birds of western North America, it will also be an important tool in the struggle to save this highly endangered area. Synthesizing data from many sources, including observations from their long-term work in the area, the authors' species accounts discuss each bird's abundance, seasonal status, movement patterns, biogeographic affinities, habitat associations, and more. This valuable reference also includes general information on the region's fascinating history and biogeography, making it an unparalleled resource for the birding community, for wildlife managers, and for conservation biologists concerned with one of the most threatened ecosystems in western North America.

Full Product Details

9780520235939

Table of Contents

Reviews

Astonishing new book. . . . Whether this book stands as a farewell to this rich haven or a rallying cry of support is yet to be seen, but its case and timing make it a classic. --David Lukas, Los Angeles Times, September 9, 2003

Author Information

Michael A. Patten is Director of Research at the Sutton Avian Research Center, University of Oklahoma, and is a Research Associate at the San Diego Natural History Museum. Guy McCaskie is a civil engineer and editor of the four seasonal reports for the Southern Pacific Coast Region in North American Birds. Philip Unitt is editor of the journal Western Birds and Collection Manager for the San Diego Natural History Museum's department of birds and mammals.

Tab Content 6

Customer Reviews

Recent Reviews

Countries Available