Covering every bird family worldwide - nearly 200 in all - this illustrated guide beckons enthusiasts on National Geographic's most far-ranging birding adventure ever. National Geographic Complete Birds of the World delivers essential information about our planet's birds - their appearances, ranges, voices, behaviors, conservation threats, and more. Whether you are seeking information on a specific family or simply want to satisfy your curiosity about the incredible diversity of the planet's birds, the authoritative text and stunning illustrations will guide you there.<BR>Following a foreword by acclaimed field ornithologist and artist Jonathan Alderfer, the bird families appear in taxonomic order according to the latest Howard and Moore Checklist. Each family entry features a fact panel with a snapshot view - in map form - of its worldwide distribution, along with additional information on number of species and conservation status. The concise text, written by a team of outstanding experts, covers the structure, plumage, behavior, voice, habitat, movements, diet, breeding, and taxonomy of every family. Sidebars treat topics of special interest and beauty: from how raptors hunt to the exquisite displays of the Birds-of-Paradise. Cross-referencing tools, a glossary, and two indexes - one alphabetical and one by family - add to the practicality of this reader-friendly resource.<BR>Best of all, on every beautiful page, vibrant photographs and art depict the marvelous color, texture, and movement of birds, revealing little-known behaviors of waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, and more - as captured by the world's leanding wildlife photographers and illustrators.