Handbook of the Birds of the World Vol.7: Jacamars to Woodpeckers

This is the final volume dedicated to non-passerine birds, covering six fascinating bird families. It explores species from neotropical and pantropical regions, making it an invaluable resource for those interested in these diverse ecologies.

Three of the families covered—jacamars, puffbirds, and toucans—are native to the Neotropics, while the other three—barbets, honeyguides, and woodpeckers—have broader distributions. Woodpeckers are the most diverse group, with 216 species distributed almost globally. This volume is especially relevant for birdwatchers and researchers interested in woodpeckers, one of the most studied and widely distributed bird families.

The volume begins with an insightful foreword by Errol Fuller on extinct birds, including meticulously researched accounts and illustrations of species that have disappeared since 1600. Fuller’s contribution adds a poignant historical dimension, exploring the reasons for extinction and illustrating the fate of species such as the Great Auk and the Dodo.

The species descriptions provide detailed information on morphology, habitat, feeding behavior, reproduction, and conservation status. The text is complemented by vivid photographs and detailed illustrations, offering a comprehensive view of some of the world’s most remarkable birds. The images capture the vibrant colors of toucans, the cryptic plumage of the Eurasian wryneck, and even the mystery surrounding the elusive ivory-billed woodpecker, whose possible rediscovery has sparked debate among ornithologists.

This volume also maintains the series' focus on conservation, with special attention to species with restricted distributions and the critical habitats where they are found. Additionally, it includes updated information on the status of globally threatened species.

Highlighted Features

• 70 color plates and 317 photographs showcasing birds in their natural habitats, including many rarely photographed species.
• 408 distribution maps.
• Approximately 4,000 bibliographic references.

Content

• Order Galbuliformes
• Family Galbulidae (Jacamars) – 18 genera, 55 species
• Family Bucconidae (Puffbirds) – 10 genera, 36 species
• Order Piciformes
• Family Capitonidae (Barbets) – 15 genera, 83 species
• Family Ramphastidae (Toucans) – 6 genera, 42 species
• Family Indicatoridae (Honeyguides) – 4 genera, 17 species
• Family Picidae (Woodpeckers) – 37 genera, 216 species