Oceanic Birds of the World

Synopsis

A state-of-the-art photographic field guide to the world's oceanic birds

Oceanic birds are among the most remarkable but least known of all birds, living at sea, far from the sight of most people. They offer unusual identification challenges-many species look similar and it can be difficult to get good views of fast-flying birds from a moving boat. The first field guide to the world's oceanic birds in more than two decades, this exciting and authoritative book draws on decades of firsthand experience on the open seas. It features clear text filled with original insights and new information and more than 2,200 carefully chosen color images that bring the ocean and its remarkable winged inhabitants to life. Never before have oceanic birds been presented in such an accessible and comprehensive way.

The introduction discusses the many recent developments in seabird taxonomy, which are incorporated into the species accounts, and these accounts are arranged into groups that aid field identification. Each group and species complex has an introductory overview of its identification challenges, illustrated with clear comparative photos. The text describes flight manner, plumage variation related to age and molt, seasonal occurrence patterns, migration routes, and many other features.

The result is an indispensable guide for exploring birding's last great frontier.

• A comprehensive, authoritative, and accessible guide to oceanic birds
  
• Covers more than 270 species
  
• Includes more than 2,200 color photos with concise captions noting key features
  
• Features careful species comparisons, overviews of the latest taxonomy, tips on how to observe and ID birds at sea, and much more
  

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction to Oceanic Birds

* Definition of oceanic birds, their habitats, and adaptations
* Importance of oceanic birds in marine ecosystems

Example: Albatrosses are highly specialized oceanic birds with long, narrow wings and gliding capabilities. They can soar over the oceans for extended periods, feeding on squid, fish, and krill.

Chapter 2: Taxonomy of Oceanic Birds

* Classification and characteristics of oceanic bird families
* Discussion of the evolutionary relationships between different species

Example: Penguins are a unique family of flightless oceanic birds found in the Southern Hemisphere. They have streamlined bodies, short wings modified for swimming, and thick layers of fat for insulation.

Chapter 3: Distribution and Abundance of Oceanic Birds

* Geographic ranges and population estimates of different oceanic bird species
* Factors influencing their distribution, such as prey availability and ocean currents

Example: Shearwaters are pelagic birds that migrate across vast distances during the breeding and non-breeding seasons. They have specific foraging areas in the open ocean, often following oceanographic features such as upwellings.

Chapter 4: Feeding Ecology of Oceanic Birds

* Feeding strategies, prey preferences, and dietary adaptations of oceanic birds
* Importance of oceanic productivity and food webs

Example: Gannets are diving birds that plunge from great heights to capture fish near the water's surface. They have specialized adaptations, such as strong muscles and air sacs, to withstand the impact of their dives.

Chapter 5: Breeding Biology of Oceanic Birds

* Nesting habits, mating systems, and parental care in oceanic birds
* Unique adaptations related to long foraging trips and dispersed colonies

Example: Storm petrels are small, nocturnal oceanic birds that nest in burrows or crevices. Both parents incubate the egg and share parental duties, including feeding the chick squids and fish.

Chapter 6: Threats and Conservation of Oceanic Birds

* Impacts of human activities, such as pollution, bycatch, and climate change
* Conservation measures and strategies to protect oceanic bird populations

Example: Albatrosses are particularly vulnerable to bycatch in longline fisheries. Conservation efforts have been implemented to reduce this threat, including the use of mitigation devices and closed areas.