A Field Guide to the Birds of the Middle East

Birds of the Middle East is the first comprehensive field guide dealing exclusively with the birds of this region. It covers all species, including vagrants, found in the Arabian peninsula (including Socotra), Jordan, Lebanon, Israel, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Turkey, and Cyprus. Over 700 species are described in concise texts giving full details of the plumage and voice of all recognizable forms. Distributed maps appear opposite the plates and are annotated with details of each species status and preferred habitat. Four artists have prepared a magnificent set of specially commissioned plates that show all the forms described in full color. The authors have extensive ornithological experience in the Middle East spanning over thirty years of research into the identification, biology, and conservation of the many wonderful species to be found there. This authoritative book will be an indispensable guide to the visiting birder. It will also be a vital tool for those engaged in work to conserve and study the avifauna of the region, which is especially important for both the indigenous species and those which pass through it on their migrations between the Palaearctic and Africa.


Key Features:

• The first comprehensive field guide devoted solely to the Middle East


• Every species is illustrated in color in all distinctive plumages


• Authors are experts, each with 30 years field experience in the region


• Serves as an entirely authoritative reference

R. F. Porter was Head of Species Protection for the RSPB until his retirement. He is the senior author of the ground-breaking Flight Identification of European Raptors.