New York: Crown Publishers, 2008. Octavo, illustrations, fine copy in dustwrapper.

In this fascinating exploration of the avian class, Colin Tudge considers the creatures of the air. From their evolutionary roots to their flying, feeding, fighting, mating, nesting, and communicating, Tudge provocatively ponders what birds actually do, as well as why they do it and how. Observing the complex strategy that comes into play with everything from migration and social interaction to the timing of reproduction, Tudge explains how birds are uniquely equipped biologically to succeed and survive. And he offers an impassioned plea for humans to learn to coexist with birds without continuing to endanger their survival.