Published in association with America's preeminent authority, the Smithsonian Institution, this comprehensive handbook to the birds of North America: Eastern Region includes 706 species -- all birds known to breed east of the 100th meridian on the United States and Canada, as well as regular visitors and vagrants to this region. The Smithsonian Handbook is the first identification guide that includes details of the bird's life history in a concise and user-friendly format. Each full-page profile combines a precise description, annotated photographs, and artworks to highlight the key field marks of the species in each plumage. Similar species are shown and distinguishing characteristics are noted. Further information on the bird's habits describes the typical song and other vocalizations, behavior, breeding, nesting, population, and conservation concerns. Typical flight patterns and nest locations and shapes are described with clear icons, and amplified in the text. Each bird's range during summer, winter, and on migration is clearly shown on a map.

By partnering with the Smithsonian Institution and by using the popular photographically-rich design of the DK Handbook series, the books [Smithsonian Handbooks of Birds of North America (Eastern Region and Western Region)] promise to catch the attention of veteran and novice birders. With 750-plus pages per handbook, each species receives it's own full-page profile, including a concise overview and color photos. The books also cover songs, behavior, breeding, population and conservation issues. (Birder's World, June 2001)