Handbook of the Birds of the World - Volume 16

Volume 16 marks the conclusion of the Handbook of the Birds of the World series, finalizing the monumental task of documenting all bird species worldwide. This final volume covers four families, with a primary focus on Nearctic and Neotropical species, which account for 94% of the species included.

The volume begins with the tanagers, a family known for its spectacularly colorful plumage, especially in the Tangara genus. The cardinals, with their striking red coloration, include iconic species such as the Northern Cardinal. The buntings and New World sparrows, with 326 species, are among the most diverse bird families, covering a wide range of habitats. Finally, the volume concludes with the New World blackbirds, a family known for its highly social behavior and vocal abilities, including species such as orioles and oropendolas.

The preface, written by Anders Pape Møller, discusses the impact of climate change on birds, including how global warming affects reproduction, migration, and population dynamics, as well as increasing the risk of extinction for many species.

Highlighted Features

• Preface: Climate Change and Birds, by Anders Pape Møller
• 77 color plates with stunning images of the species covered
• More than 500 color photographs showcasing birds in their natural habitats
• 766 distribution maps
• Includes a handy laminated reference card for locating passerine families covered in this and previous volumes (Volumes 8–16)

Contents

• Order Passeriformes
• Family Thraupidae: 107 genera, 377 species
• Family Cardinalidae: 14 genera, 53 species
• Family Emberizidae: 41 genera, 326 species
• Family Icteridae: 31 genera, 110 species