New Titles

                                                                                
1) Knick, Steven T. and John W. Connelly (editors). Greater Sage-Grouse: Ecology and Conservation of a Landscape Species and Its Habitats. 2011. University of California Press. Hardbound: 646 pages. Price: $95.00 U.S.
SUMMARY: Admired for its elaborate breeding displays and treasured as a game bird, the Greater Sage-Grouse is a charismatic symbol of the broad open spaces in western North America. Unfortunately these birds have declined across much of their range—which stretches across 11 western states and reaches into Canada—mostly due to loss of critical sagebrush habitat. Today the Greater Sage-Grouse is at the center of a complex conservation challenge. This multifaceted volume, an important foundation for developing conservation strategies and actions, provides a comprehensive synthesis of scientific information on the biology and ecology of the Greater Sage-Grouse. Bringing together the experience of thirty-eight researchers, it describes the bird’s population trends, its sagebrush habitat, and potential limitations to conservation, including the effects of rangeland fire, climate change, invasive plants, disease, and land uses such as energy development, grazing, and agriculture.
RECOMMENDATION: This volume is number 38 in the Studies in Avian Biology series. A must have for those with a technical interest in the Greater Sage-Grouse!

                                                                                      
                                                                              
2) Tekiela, Stan. Birds of Prey of the West: Field Guide. 2011. Adventure Publications. Paperback: 247 pages. Price: $14.95 U.S.
SUMMARY: Watching birds of prey (including owls) has never been easier, more informative or more enjoyable! With the Birds of Prey of the West Field Guide, you have everything you need to learn about and identify flying predators found between Montana and New Mexico—and all states West, including Alaska. Modeled after the acclaimed line of Birds of field guides, this user-friendly book is organized for efficiency and features full-color photographs, gee-whiz facts and more.
RECOMMENDATION: This handy-sized field guide will be useful to beginning/novice birders.