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Asia

This page lists books about birds and birdwatching that cover all, or large parts of, Asia

The books are listed by publication date with the most recent at the top.


Asian countries

For books about birds of countries within Asia see:

Afghanistan
Armenia
Azerbaijan
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Bhutan
Borneo
Brunei
Cambodia
China
Chinese Taipei
Cyprus
Georgia
Hong_Kong
India
Indonesia
Iran
Iraq
Israel
Japan
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Laos
Lebanon
Malaysia
Maldives
Mongolia
Myanmar
Nepal
North Korea
Oman
Pakistan
Palestine
Philippines
Qatar
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
South Korea
Sri Lanka
Syria
Taiwan
Tajikistan
Thailand
Timor-Leste
Turkey
Turkmenistan
United Arab Emirates
Uzbekistan
Vietnam
Yemen

 

Birds of South-East Asia

Norman Arlott

Collins Field Guide

Collins

2017

"This comprehensive new field guide is an excellent addition to the world-renowned series - the ultimate reference book for travelling birdwatchers. Every species of bird you might encounter in the region is featured, apart from non-established introductions. This includes coverage of China (south of the line used to define the Palearctic), Hainan (treated separately from SE China), Taiwan, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore and the Coco Islands. As many of the major subspecies as possible are also included. Beautiful artwork depicts their breeding plumage, and non-breeding plumage when it differs significantly. The accompanying text concentrates on the specific characteristics and appearance of each species that allow identification in the field, including voice and distribution maps.

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A Photographic Field Guide to Birds of India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh

Bikram Grewal, Sumit Sen, Sarwandeep Singh, Nikhil Devasar, Garima Bhatia

Introduction: Tim and Carol Inskipp

Princeton University Press

2017

Originally published by Om Book in 2016 as A Pictorial Field Guide to Birds of India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

"This is the only comprehensive photographic field guide to the birds of the entire Indian subcontinent. Every distinct species and subspecies--some 1,375 in all--is covered with photographs, text, and maps. The guide features more than 4,000 stunning photographs, many never before published, which have been carefully selected to illustrate key identification features of each species. The up-to-date facing-page text includes concise descriptions of plumage, voice, range, habitat, and recent taxonomic changes. Each species has a detailed map reflecting the latest distribution information and containing notes on status and population density. The guide also features an introduction that provides an overview of birdlife and a brief history of ornithology in India and its neighbors. The result is an encyclopedic photographic guide that is essential for everyone birding anywhere in the subcontinent.

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The 100 Best Bird Watching Sites in Southeast Asia

Editor: Yong Ding Li, Low Bing Wen

John Beaufoy

2016

"Southeast Asia has a vast diversity of birdlife, comprising roughly one fifth of the world's 10,000 living species, and of which over 850 are endemic, making the region a richly rewarding destination for birdwatchers.This fully illustrated guide describes the 100 best sites for viewing both common and rare species. Divided into the four biodiversity hotspots of Indo-Burma; Sundaland; Philippines and Wallacea, the book covers sites in Myanmar, Thailand, Lao PDR, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, the Philippines and Timor Leste.Alongside a map of each area, detailed descriptions of each site cover the type of terrain and specific spots at which certain species are likely to be encountered. Other sections cover access and possible accommodation, as well as important indicators to conservation issues.A fact file for each site lists the nearest town; the type of habitat; key lowland, montane and winter species to be seen as well as other wildlife specialities, and the best time to visit. The book is edited by Yang Ding Li and Low Bing Wen who have brought together a team of contributors, each with in-depth experience of the sites presented."

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A Pictorial Field Guide to Birds of India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh

Bikram Grewal, Sumit Sen, Sarwandeep Singh, Nikhil Devasar, Garima Bhatia

Introduction: Tim and Carol Inskipp

Om Books

2016

Subsequently published by Princeton University Press in 2017 as A Photographic Field Guide to Birds of India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

"This book covers over 1,300 species and distinct sub-species of birds found in the Indian subcontinent. It contains over 4,000 colour photographs including depictions of flight, plumage, hunting style and much more. Many of the photographs in this comprehensive field guide appear for the first time, and have been carefully selected to showcase the most important features of each species. The text provides vital and new information on voice and habits of each species. The distribution maps are accompanied by notes on status and density. A Pictorial Field Guide to Birds of India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will enable accurate field identification in one of the world's most diverse avifaunal regions.

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Birds of South-East Asia

Craig Robson

Concise edition

Helm Field Guides

Bloomsbury Publishing

2015

This is a reprint of the book first published by New Holland as Field Guide to the Birds of South-East Asia.

"The up-to-date text covers the identification, voice, habitat, behaviour and range of all the 1270 species and distinctive subspecies of this magnificent bird-rich region. The authoritative text is accompanied by 142 full-colour plates painted by a range of expert artists and covering major plumage variations. The guide has no distribution maps, distribution is indicated in each species account simply by mentioning the name of the country, and, using abbreviations, the rarity of the bird and whether it's a resident, vagrant etc. Birds of South-East Asia: Concise Edition is a complete field and reference guide to the birds of Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. It also covers a wide range of species found in the Indian subcontinent, China, Taiwan, Sumatra, Java, Bali, Borneo and the Philippines."

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A Field Guide To The Birds of South-East Asia

Craig Robson

Christopher Helm

Second edition (reissue of 2008 edition)

2014

"This is the first-time flexi-cover edition of this classic field guide, which is the definitive volume on the region's birdlife. This award-winning book, which was first published in 2000, was fully updated in 2009 to include 76 new species for the region that were recent new discoveries for science, taxonomic 'splits' or had been recorded there for the first time. This comprehensive field guide to the birds of South-East Asia covers all of the 1,327 species recorded in the region and each has been fully illustrated. This edition has many new artworks and 16 more colour plates than the original guide, and the text has been meticulously updated to take in all the most recent information. The vast diversity of South-East Asian birdlife attracts increasing numbers of birdwatchers each year. Covering Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Peninsular Malaysia, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia, this unique and indispensable guide covers in detail the identification, voice, breeding, status, habitat and distribution of all the species and distinctive subspecies of the region."

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A Photographic Guide to the Birds of Southeast Asia: Including the Philippines and Borneo

Morten Strange

Periplus Editions

2014

Reprint of 2003 edition

"This guide covers 668 species found in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines and Borneo. Each species is illustrated with a photograph and distribution map, making this a quick-reference guide in a pocketable format."

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Birds of Central Asia: Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan

Raffael Ayé, Manuel Schweizer & Tobias Roth

Illustrations: Per Alström, Adam Bowley, Carl D'Silva, Kim Franklin, John Gale, Alan Harris, Ren Hathway, Christopher Schmidt, Brian Small, Jan Wilczur, Tim Worfolk, Martin Woodcock

Christopher Helm

2012

"Birds of Central Asia is the first field guide to include the former Soviet republics of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, along with neighbouring Afghanistan. This vast area includes a diverse variety of habitats, and the avifauna is similarly broad, from sandgrouse, ground jays and larks on the vast steppe and semi-desert to a broad range of raptors, and from woodland species such as warblers and nuthatches to a suite of montane species, such as snowcocks, accentors and snowfinches. Birds of Central Asia includes 141 high-quality plates covering every species (and all distinctive races) that occur in the region, along with concise text focusing on identification and accurate colour maps. Important introductory sections introduce the land and its birds. Birds of Central Asia is a must-read for any birder or traveller visting this remote region."

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Birds of Central Asia: Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan

Raffael Ayé, Manuel Schweizer & Tobias Roth

Illustrations: Per Alström, Adam Bowley, Carl D'Silva, Kim Franklin, John Gale, Alan Harris, Ren Hathway, Christopher Schmidt, Brian Small, Jan Wilczur, Tim Worfolk, Martin Woodcock

Princeton Field Guides

Princeton University Press

2012

"Birds of Central Asia is the first-ever field guide to the avian population of this fascinating part of the world. From ground jays, larks, and raptors to warblers, nuthatches, and snowfinches, this comprehensive guide covers 618 species - including all residents, migrants, and vagrants - and 143 superb plates depict every species and many distinct plumages and races. This portable book contains important introductory sections on the land and its birds, and up-to-date color maps. The concise, authoritative text on facing pages highlights key identification features, such as status, voice, and habitat. Birds of Central Asia is indispensable for anyone interested in the birds of this remarkable and little-known region."

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Birds of India: Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives

Richard Grimmett, Carol Inskipp and Tim Inskipp

Illustrations: Clive Byers, Daniel Cole, John Cox, Gerald Driessens, Carl D'Silva, Martin Elliott, Kim Franklin, Alan Harris, Peter Hayman, Craig Robson, Jan Wilczur, Tim Worfolk

Princeton Field Guides

Princeton University Press

2012

"The best field guide to the birds of the Indian subcontinent is now even better. Thoroughly revised, with 73 new plates and many others updated or repainted, the second edition of Birds of India now features all maps and text opposite the plates for quicker and easier reference. Newly identified species have been added, the text has been extensively revised, and all the maps are new. Comprehensive and definitive, this is the indispensable guide for anyone birding in this part of the world. 1,375 species are illustrated and described, including all residents, migrants, and vagrants. With 226 color plates that depict every species and many distinct plumages and races."

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Birds of South Asia. The Ripley Guide

Volume 1: Field Guide

Volume 2: Attributes and Status

Pamela C. Rasmussen and John C. Anderton

Lynx Edicions

Second edition

2012

"Birds of South Asia. The Ripley Guide is a comprehensive, two-volume, up-to-date work covering the over 2500 known and likely taxa of birds of the spectacularly diverse Indian subcontinent including, for the first time, Afghanistan and the Chagos Archipelago. Volume 1 is a Field Guide, bound separately for portability, while Volume 2 (Attributes and Status) contains much more detailed information. The second edition is revised and updated with the newest findings on vocalizations and taxonomy, including several taxa newly recorded for the region, species whose voice was previously unknown, and additional newly recognised species."

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Birds of the Indian Subcontinent

Richard Grimmett, Carol Inskipp and Tim Inskipp

Illustrations: Clive Byers, Daniel Cole, John Cox, Gerald Driessens, Carl D'Silva, Martin Elliott, Kim Franklin, Alan Harris, Peter Hayman, Craig Robson, Jan Wilczur, Tim Worfolk

Helm Field Guides

Christopher Helm

2nd edition

2011

"This new field guide is based on the authors' groundbreaking Birds of the Indian Subcontinent (1998) and covers all the bird species found in India, Pakistian, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and the Maldives. The plates face the descriptions and maps for quick at-a-glance reference. Many of the plates have been repainted for this edition and a number of new species added. This guide also provides tables, summarising identification features of particularly difficult groups such as nightjars, warblers and rosefinches."

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A Field Guide To The Birds of South-East Asia

Craig Robson

New Holland

Second edition (paperback)

2011

"This is a reprint of the second edition of this classic field guide, which is the definitive volume on the region's birdlife. This award-winning book, which was first published in 2000, was fully updated in 2008 to include 76 new species for the region that were recent discoveries for science, taxonomic 'splits' or had been recorded there for the first time. This comprehensive field guide to the birds of South-East Asia covers all of the 1,327 species recorded in the region and each has been fully illustrated. Compared to the 2000 edition, the reprint of this 2008 edition has many new artworks and 16 more colour plates, and the text has been meticulously updated to take in all the most recent information. The vast diversity of South-East Asian birdlife attracts increasing numbers of birdwatchers each year. Covering Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Peninsular Malaysia, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia, this unique and indispensable guide covers in detail the identification, voice, breeding, status, habitat and distribution of all the species and distinctive subspecies of the region."

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Birds in Books: Three Hundred Years of South Asian Ornithology: A Bibliography

Aasheesh Pittie

Permanent Black

2010

"The history of South Asian ornithology spans three centuries and records over 1200 species of birds. This is the passionate work of hundreds of amateur and professional ornithologists. The popular as well as scientific documentation of this region's avifauna is prodigious. For the first time, this vast body of work is brought together here, in this detailed, meticulously researched, and annotated bibliography. Over 1700 books are listed, covering the ornithology of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Tibet - a region encompassing the Oriental and Palaearctic realms. The bibliography embraces various types of work: from travelogues, field guides, species monographs, country handbooks, regional avifaunas, multi-volume ornithological works, and folios of art, to simple checklists. In addition, it provides brief glimpses into the lives of over 200 ornithologists. For comprehensive accessibility, it includes three indexes enabling readers to reach specific items of information with ease."

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Birds of East Asia: China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, and Russia

Mark Brazil

Princeton University Press

2009

"With 234 superb color plates, and more than 950 color maps, Birds of East Asia makes it easy to identify all of the region's species. The first single-volume field guide for eastern Asia, the book covers major islands including Japan and Taiwan, as well as the Asian continent from Kamchatka to the Korean Peninsula. The region's major bird families are presented and distinct species are noted, from the well-known Steller's Sea Eagle - the world's largest eagle - to those less familiar to Western ornithologists, such as the Scaly-sided Merganser, Oriental Stork, and Mugimaki Flycatcher. The maps provide useful information about the seasonal migratory patterns of all bird varieties."

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A Field Guide To The Birds of South-East Asia

Craig Robson

New Holland

2009

"This fully updated edition of the award-winning A Field Guide to the Birds of South-East Asia includes more than 20 new species for the region which are recent discoveries, taxonomic 'splits' or have been recorded there for the first time. There are many new artworks and this edition has 16 more colour plates than the original, meaning fewer species per plate and therefore larger images of each species. The text has also been meticulously updated to take in the latest information on each species. The vast diversity of South-East Asian birdlife attracts increasing numbers of birdwatchers each year. This comprehensive field guide to the region covers all of the 1,300 species recorded there and each has been fully illustrated. Covering Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Peninsular Malaysia, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia, this unique and indispensable guide covers in detail the identification, voice, breeding, status, habitat and distribution of all the species and distinctive subspecies of the region."

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Status of Waterbirds in Asia: Results of the Asian Waterbird Census: 1987 - 2007

Editor: David Li Zuo, Andrea Bloem, Simon Delaney, G. Martakis and J.O. Quintero

Wetlands International

2009

"The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC), conducted each year in January, is a waterbird and wetland monitoring programme initiated in 1987 within the framework of the International Waterbird Census. This report summarises the results of the AWC from 1987 to 2007, comprising counts at 6,705 sites in 27 countries. A total of 1,387 sites met at least one of two criteria of internationally important sites according to the Ramsar Convention. Of these, 312 sites were reported to support more than 20,000 waterbirds, and 1,382 sites recorded more than 1 percent of the biogeographic population of at least one species of waterbird."

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Birds of East Asia: China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, and Russia

Mark Brazil

Christopher Helm

2008

"This is the first single volume guide ever devoted to the eastern Asian avifauna. The eastern Asian region, centring especially on the major islands off the continental coast (including Japan and Taiwan) and the immediately adjacent areas of the Asian continent from Kamchatka in the north and including the Korean Peninsula are an important centre of endemism. Birds endemic to this region include representatives of many of the major families, from the world's largest eagle - Steller's Sea Eagle - to the tiny Formosan Firecrest. The east Asian continental coast and the offshore islands also form one of the world's major international bird migration routes, especially for waterfowl, shorebirds and raptors, while the east Asian continental mainland itself is home to a wide range of species little known to western ornithologists such as Scaly-sided Merganser, Oriental Stork and Mugimaki Flycatcher. The guide features the most up-to-date text available, which, in conjunction with extensive colour plates throughout, facilitates the field identification of all of the species known from the region. Colour distribution maps enhance the text by providing a visual analysis of the summer, winter and migratory ranges of all species."

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A Photographic Guide to the Birds of Japan and North-east Asia

Tadao Shimba

Christopher Helm

2007

"Despite its rich avifauna and popularity with tourists, Japan has long been lacking a good English-language field guide. This new photographic guide will be the first book to cover the Japanese avifauna in English for over 25 years, and the first photoguide to the country in English. It will also include the birds of neighbouring mainland regions of eastern Asia, namely Korea, NE China and eastern Siberia. Over 520 species are illustrated with hundreds of stunning colour photographs. The text succinctly describes the key identification features and each species has a distribution map. This guide will be an essential companion for anyone visiting Japan or eastern Asia."

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Numbers and Distribution of Waterbirds and Wetlands in the Asia-Pacific Region

Results of the Asian Waterbird Census: 2002-2004

Editor: Z.W.D. Li and T. Mundkur

Wetlands International

2007

"This report summarises the results of the Asian Waterbird Census in 2002, 2003 and 2004, comprising counts at 2,032 sites in 22 countries. Of these sites, 459 met the criteria for international importance by recording either more than 20,000 waterbirds or 1 per cent of the population of at least one species. 79 Ramsar Sites, 36 Migratory Waterbird Network sites in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway and 280 Important Bird Areas were covered. Totals of 274 waterbird species and 61 wetland-dependent species were recorded during this period, with nearly 8 million waterbirds recorded each year. Brief status accounts, accompanied by 202 maps, are presented for 211 species, including 42 Globally Threatened species and 19 near threatened species."

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The Status of Coastal Waterbirds and Wetlands in Southeast Asia: Results of Waterbird Surveys in Malaysia (2004-2006) and Thailand and Myanmar (2006)

Editor: David Li Zuo and Rosie Ounsted

Wetlands International

2007

"A comprehensive update of the status of waterbird populations and wetlands along the coasts of Malaysia, Thailand and Myanmar based on surveys undertaken between 2004 and 2006. The outcomes of this recent investigation demonstrate the importance of peninsular Malaysia for many migratory species, but also show an alarming trend. Shorebird numbers showed an overall decline of 22 per cent in Malaysia between 1983-1986 and 2004-2006. The surveys confirmed the Peninsular Malaysian coast as one of the most important wintering grounds for the Endangered Nordmann's Greenshank, supports up to 25 per cent (1 per cent = 8) of the most rare shorebird species along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. The surveys also confirmed the significance of the east Malaysian coast for the wintering Vulnerable Chinese Egret, with up to 33 per cent (1 per cent = 30) using of the east Malaysian coast for wintering. The surveys in Malaysia were jointed conducted by Malaysian Nature Society, Sarawak Forest Corporation and Wetlands International -Malaysia Office. The surveys in Thailand and Myanmar was carried out by Bird Conservation Society of Thailand and Myanmar Bird and Nature Society, respectively."

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Birds of South Asia. The Ripley Guide

Volume 1: Field Guide

Volume 2: Attributes and Status

Pamela C. Rasmussen and John C. Anderton

Lynx Edicions

2005

A two volume work covering over 1500 species recorded in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, the Chagos archipelago and Afghanistan.

Volume one is a field guide with 176 colour plates, 69 of which are by Anderton. The plates are accompanied by brief text to aid identification and range maps.

Volume two comprises mainly detailed species accounts for all species including information on identification, measurements, subspecies, distribution, plumage variation, habits, voice and taxonomy.

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Birds of Southeast Asia

Craig Robson

Illustrations: Richard Allen, Hilary Burn, Clive Byers, Daniel Cole, John Cox, Antony Disley, Martin Elliott, Mike Langman, Ian Lewington, Andrew Mackay, Stephen Message, Chris Schmidt, Jan Wilczur and Tim Worfolk

Princeton Field Guides

Princeton University Press

2005

"This concise, updated edition of the award-winning A Guide to the Birds of Southeast Asia (Princeton, 2000) is the most comprehensive, compact guide to this magnificent bird-rich region. It is a complete field and reference guide to the birds of Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. It also covers a wide range of species found in the Indian subcontinent, China, Taiwan, Sumatra, Java, Bali, Borneo, and the Philippines."

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Birds of South-East Asia

Craig Robson

Illustrations: Richard Allen, Hilary Burn, Clive Byers, Daniel Cole, John Cox, Antony Disley, Martin Elliott, Mike Langman, Ian Lewington, Andrew Mackay, Stephen Message, Chris Schmidt, Jan Wilczur and Tim Worfolk

New Holland

2005

"This concise edition of the award-winning field guide is both portable and compact, making the book accessible and key species easier to locate. With 142 colour plates, author Craig Robson details the plumage v ariations of over 1250 bird species found in South-east Asia and Thailand."

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Important Bird Areas in Asia: Key Sites for Conservation

Editors: S. Chan, M.J. Crosby, M.Z. Islam and A.W. Tordoff

BirdLife Conservation Series 13

BirdLife International

2004

"Important Bird Areas in Asia is the first comprehensive inventory of Asia's key sites for birds and biodiversity. Country-by-country, the book details the region's 2,293 Important Bird Areas (IBAs), of these 976, or 43% are lacking any formal protection. This book presents a sound basis for the development of national conservation strategies and protected area programmes, and highlights areas which should be safeguarded through wise policies and land-use planning."

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Numbers and Distribution of Waterbirds and Wetlands in the Asia-Pacific Region

Results of the Asian Waterbird Census: 1997-2001

Editor: David Li Zu Wei and Taej Mundkur

Wetlands International

2004

"This important publication is the result of the Asian Waterbird Census from 1997 to 2001. The report provides valuable and important data on waterbird population, distribution and status, with reference to wetland habitats. A total of 22 countries participated in the censuses and 1,392 sites were covered at least once between 1997 and 2001. A total of 61 Ramsar Sites, 32 migratory waterbird network sites in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, and 43 bird areas were covered. 291 species of waterbirds and 15 species of wetland-dependent raptors (birds of prey) were recorded during this period; and a maximum of over 4.5 million waterbirds were counted in 2001. Distribution maps are presented for a selection of 110 species, including 24 globally threatened and 9 near threatened species for which relatively significant data are available."

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Saving Asia's Threatened Birds: A Guide for Government and Civil Society

Editors:

BirdLife International

2003

"This book documents the major forest, grassland and wetland regions of Asia and the globally threatened bird species which they support. The most important conservation issues in each of these habitat regions are outlined, based upon the analysis in BirdLife's "Asia Red Data Book", and recommendations are made for actions to address these issues. The role of international and regional conventions in the conservation of Asia's birds and habitats is discussed, and the priority actions to prevent the extinction of the region's most highly threatened birds are identified. The book is illustrated with about 200 colour photographs of Asia's birds, habitats and conservation issues, plus maps of key habitats and sites for conservation."

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A Photographic Guide to the Birds of India: Including Nepal, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Pakistan, Bangladesh & Bhutan

Bikram Grewal, Bill Harvey and Otto Pfister

Princeton University Press

2003

"This is the most comprehensive photographic guide to the birds of India and the Indian subcontinent. Never before have so many of the region's species been illustrated in one book. The brilliant photographs - most of which appear here for the first time - have been carefully selected to show not only the most common Passerine and non-Passerine species, but also more elusive species and distinctive subspecies. An up-to-date distribution map and a unique code indicating frequency and global status are provided for each of the 668 species covered. The concise text provides vital information on habitats, habits, and voice to ensure accurate identification. Designed for easy use, the book places photos and maps in close proximity to provide an at-a-glance overview for each species. Birds are indexed by both their common and scientific names. This is an essential volume for all birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts as well as for anyone traveling to India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Pakistan, Bangladesh, or Bhutan."

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A Photographic Guide to the Birds of India: Including Nepal, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Pakistan, Bangladesh & Bhutan

Bikram Grewal, Bill Harvey and Otto Pfister

Christopher Helm

2003

"This guide covers 800 species found in India. Each species description is illustrated with a photograph and distribution map, making this a quick-reference guide in a pocketable format. Introductory sections include general information, such as the biogeography of the region covered."

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A Photographic Guide to the Birds of Southeast Asia: Including the Philippines and Borneo

Morten Strange

Princeton University Press

2003

"This is the very first comprehensive photographic guide to the birds of mainland Southeast Asia, the Philippines, and Borneo, including the birds of Peninsular Malaysia, Thailand, Indochina, South China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Covering 668 species, the volume contains a distribution map for each species in addition to more than 700 brilliant color photographs, many appearing here for the first time. The photographs are complemented by a concise text providing all the information needed to accurately identify species in one of the world's richest avifauna regions. Given the notorious difficulty of photographing rainforest birds, this book represents a major achievement. It is an ideal volume for travelers to the region as well as for all bird lovers."

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A Photographic Guide to the Birds of Southeast Asia: Including the Philippines and Borneo

Morton Strange

Christopher Helm

2003

"This guide covers almost 700 species found in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines and Borneo. Each species is illustrated with a photograph and distribution map, making this a quick-reference guide in a pocketable format. Introductory sections include general information, such as the biogeography of the region covered."

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A Guide To The Birds of South-East Asia: Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia

Craig Robson

Princeton University Press

2002

"Famous for its vast diversity of birdlife, Southeast Asia is an increasingly popular destination for birders and ecotourists. Travelers, however, have long been without an up-to-date, comprehensive bird guide to this fascinating region. "A Guide to the Birds of Southeast Asia" fills this need, illustrating and describing all 1,250 species found in Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, Myanmar (Burma), Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The book also covers a wide range of species found in the Indian subcontinent, China, Taiwan, Sumatra, Java, Bali, Borneo, and the Philippines. The introduction presents an overview of the entire region, encompassing information on climate, habitats, and conservation, as well as birdwatching hints and explanations on how to use the book most effectively. One hundred and four color plates, painted by a group of leading artists, depict all species and the majority of distinctive subspecies of the region in every major plumage variation, including variations by age and sex. The text provides unrivaled detail on identification (including comparisons of similar species) and covers voice, habitat, behavior, range, status, and breeding - all vital aids for identification in the field."

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Threatened Birds of Asia: The BirdLife International Red Data Book

Editors: N.J. Collar, A.V. Andreev, S. Chan, M.J. Crosby, S. Subramanya and J.A. Tobias

BirdLife International

2001

"This 2 volume book provides incredibly detailed information on the 665 most threatened bird species found in Asia. The sites known for each species are detailed, with maps showing locations. The full details are provided on the ecology of each species, plus threats, conservation action in progress and measures needed."

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Field Guide to the Birds of the Indian Subcontinent

Krys Kazmierczak

Illustrations: Ber van Perlo

Pica Press

2000

"This compact, easy to use guide covers all 1300 species of birds found on the Indian subcontinent. It provides a companion for anyone travelling in Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, and should also be useful in peripheral regions for which few guides exist."

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Birds of India: Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives

Richard Grimmett, Carol Inskipp and Tim Inskipp

Princeton Field Guides

Princeton University Press

1999

"From the snowcapped Himalayas and the Indus valley, to the Ganges delta and the Sri Lankan forests, the Indian subcontinent is home to 13% of the world's species of birds and thousands of birders and ecotourists flock to the area every year. This field guide will be indispensable to those who wish to find and identify the many species of avifauna of the Indian subcontinent and environs. Featuring more than 150 color plates by eminent bird illustrators from Europe and India, it depicts all the known species in the region, ranging from the Himalayan Snowcock in the north to the Sri Lanka Spurfowl in the south. The plates include all relevant identifiable subspecies, as well as ages and sexes. It contains hundreds of range maps and the succinct text on the facing pages covers identification, voice, and distribution. Specially designed for use in the field, it is a compact version of the landmark A Guide to the Birds of India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, hailed on its publication as a "stunning book" that "advanced the cause of Indian birding by 20-30 years." With its modest price, small trim size, and sturdy, weather-resistant binding, this field guide is the one volume that every adventurous traveler to the Indian subcontinent must have."

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Pocket Guide to the Birds of the Indian Subcontinent

Richard Grimmett, Carol Inskipp and Tim Inskipp

Christopher Helm

1999 (reprint 2001)

"This is a pocket version companion to "Birds of the Indian Subcontinent" covering all the bird species found in India, Pakistian, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and the Maldives. The plates face the descriptions for quick at-a glance reference. This guide provides tables, summarising identification features of particularly difficult groups such as nightjars, warblers and rosefinches."

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Birds of the Indian Subcontinent

Richard Grimmett, Carol Inskipp and Tim Inskipp

Helm Identification Guides

Christopher Helm

1998

"A definitive guide to the birds of India, with over one thousand three hundred species listed. The text is accompanied by colour illustrations and line drawings, with notes on identification, habits, and distribution maps for each species."

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A Guide to the Birds of India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives

Richard Grimmett, Carol Inskipp, & Tim Inskipp

With the collaboration of Sarath Kotagama and Shahid Ali

Illustrations: Clive Byers, Daniel Cole, John Cox, Gerald Driessens, Carl D'Silva, Martin Elliott, Kim Franklin, Alan Harris, Peter Hayman, Craig Robson, Jan Wilczur, and Tim Worfolk

Princeton University Press

1998

"Birdwatchers have long waited for a comprehensive and up-to-date identification guide for the Indian subcontinent. This exhaustively researched and beautifully produced book will finally meet that need. Written by three leading experts on the region - Richard Grimmett, Carol Inskipp, and Tim Inskipp - the book provides complete information about the 1,300 species of birds found in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. The guide is firmly rooted in the authors' extensive field experience, reflected in the accuracy and fullness of their bird descriptions. The guide features more than 150 color plates by eminent bird illustrators from Europe and India that depict all the species in the region, ranging from the Himalayan Snowcock in the north to the Sri Lanka Spurfowl in the south. The plates include all relevant identifiable subspecies, as well as ages and sexes. The text consists of a detailed identification section, discussing the differences between similar species and containing descriptions of vocalizations, habits, habitat, breeding, distribution, and status. There are distributional maps for nearly all species. And the authors' introduction provides useful background information about such subjects as conservation, the history of ornithology on the subcontinent, and the climate. A detailed bibliography provides an introduction to the prolific literature on the subcontinent."

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Tropical Birds of Southeast Asia

Morten Strange

Periplus Editions

1998

A 64 page guide covering 96 species."

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Migration and Survival of the Birds of Asia

H Elliott McClure

White Lotus

1998

"Contains information on 724 bird species from East, Southeast and South Asia. Bird longevity and migrations are indicated by banding and returns collected during an eleven-year period, from 1963 until 1974. The study of bird movements and their external parasites covers eleven countries and thirteen field stations. Anyone interested in the distribution, movement, or survival of the birds of Asia or of the Northern Hemisphere will find this study an invaluable reference work."

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Where to Watch Birds in Asia

Nigel Wheatley

Christopher Helm

1996

"This guide to birdwatching in Asia deals with over 250 sites in detail, and more in passing, from Turkey to Thailand and India to Indonesia. It is designed as much for pre-planning birding trips as for use in the country or countries on the itinerary. The countries are dealt with alphabetically and after a general introduction, there are site details, which include a list of birds to be seen, organized under the headings Endemics, Specialities and Others; a list of "Other Wildlife" is also included where there is something of particular interest."

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An Annotated Checklist of Birds of the Oriental Region

Tim Inskipp, Nigel Lindsey & William Duckworth

Oriental Bird Club

1996

"This 294-page book provides a complete checklist of Oriental birds including every species recorded in the region from Pakistan in the west, east to China and south to Wallacea (Indonesia). Species limits were determined according to the latest taxonomic research and by extensive reference to original bibliographic sources. The book contents include an introduction, a listing of 2,586 species with details of taxonomic history for many, a reference section of more than 800 titles, and a full index."

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Palearctic Birds: A Checklist of the Birds of Europe, North Africa and Asia North of the Foothills of the Himalayas

Mark Beaman

Harrier Publications

1994

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Birds Of South-East Asia

Ben King, Martin Woodcock and E. C. Dickinson

Collins Field Guide

Collins

1993

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Field Guide To The Birds Of South-East Asia

Ben King, Martin Woodcock and E. C. Dickinson

Collins

1976

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The Birds of the Palearctic Fauna

Non Passeriformes

Charles Vaurie

H.F. & G. Witherby

1965

"Dr Vaurie of the American Museum of Natural History has spared no effort in compiling his systematic list, of which this is the second volume of two. The book is designed to list all the birds that breed in the palearctic region, arranged in sequence. 559 species are included, with full notes about the range of the birds, their breeding grounds and migratory habits. Includes some descriptions and measurements of birds."

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The Birds of the Palearctic Fauna

Passeriformes

Charles Vaurie

H.F. & G. Witherby

1959

"Dr. Vaurie's new work gives for every Passerine species (the non-Passerines are to be the subject of a second volume) concise details of range, habitat, subspecies, and geographical variation. English, French, and German vernacular names are also given where designated. The inclusion of habitat details has seldom before been considered in a systematic reference of this kind but they form an important part of the work, for it is impossible to divorce birds from general ecology. For the ornithologist who wishes to view the Palearctic avifauna as a whole, Dr. Vaurie's book will prove an invaluable reference. It should prove a standard work on the Passerine birds of this vast region for many years to come."

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A Manual Of Palearctic Birds

H.E. Dresser

Published by the author

Part I: 1902

Part II: 1903

From the preface:

Twenty years ago, when the Birds of Europe was nearing its end, I thought of issuing a similar work on the Birds of Northern Asia, in order to furnish a complete account of the Ornithology of the Palearctic Region. It seemed, however, that I could not expect to obtain for my project the support of a sufficient number of subscribers to save me from serious pecuniary loss, and with much regret the project had to be abandoned. I have since been urged by many friends to bring out a Handbook of European Birds, of a size, and at a price, which would be convenient to travellers and field-naturalists the latter being a class of persons with whom, for the sake of old associations, when I counted myself one of them, I have still the greatest sympathy. Bearing in mind, however, my former desire to treat of the Birds of Northern Asia, and knowing how non-existent is any physical barrier between the Eastern and Western portions of the Palearctic area, I have thought it expedient not to limit the present Manual to European species, even with the addition of those of Barbary and the Atlantic Islands (Madeira, Canaries, and Azores).
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The Birds of Asia

Volume I

John Gould

Completed by R. Bowdler Sharpe

Colour plates: John Gould, H.C. Richter, J. Wolf, W. Hart

Published by the author

1850-1883

This is volume one of a seven volume collected edition published with dates given as 1850-1883. The work was originally published for subscribers in 35 parts between 1850 and 1883. Following the authors death in 1881 the final parts and the collected 7 volume edition were completed by R. Bowdler Sharpe.

Preface (R. Bowdler Sharpe):

"The late Mr. Gould shortly before his decease told me his wishes with regard to such of his works as should remain unfinished at the time of his death; and it is in accordance with these instructions that the 'Birds of Asia' has now been brought to a close. The work was commenced in 1850, and during the thirty-three years that have elapsed no less than 530 species have been figured ; but of course a large number of Asiatic species still remain unnoticed. The long connexion which had existed between Mr. Gould and ornithologists in all parts of the globe enabled him to obtain an early sight of rare and newly described species; and consequently many birds are figured in the present work, illustrations of which are not to be found elsewhere. Had the author lived he would doubtless have endeavoured to complete the 'Birds of Asia' in its entirety, as the subject was one in which he took the greatest personal interest. As far as the writer is concerned, he has had but a small duty to perform, as the Plates for the concluding parts of the work had nearly all been designed by Mr. Gould before his death, and have been faithfully produced on stone by his old and valued coadjutor Mr. Hart. I have endeavoured to write the concluding articles as I believe Mr. Gould would have wished them to have been done, and as far as possible in harmony with the rest of the work. In every case the initials 'R. B. S.' are appended, so that any errors or omissions can be saddled on the right shoulders. The work has been arranged according to the classifications adopted by Mr. Gould throughout his lifetime; and in giving title-pages and indexes to the species, I have added the exact dates of publication, for the benefit of ornithologists who wish to quote the work."
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The Birds of Asia

Volume II

John Gould

Completed by R. Bowdler Sharpe

Colour plates: John Gould, H.C. Richter, J. Wolf, W. Hart

Published by the author

1850-1883

This is volume two of a seven volume collected edition published with dates given as 1850-1883. The work was originally published for subscribers in 35 parts between 1850 and 1883.

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The Birds of Asia

Volume III

John Gould

Completed by R. Bowdler Sharpe

Colour plates: John Gould, H.C. Richter, J. Wolf, W. Hart

Published by the author

1850-1883

This is volume three of a seven volume collected edition published with dates given as 1850-1883. The work was originally published for subscribers in 35 parts between 1850 and 1883.

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The Birds of Asia

Volume IV

John Gould

Completed by R. Bowdler Sharpe

Colour plates: John Gould, H.C. Richter, J. Wolf, W. Hart

Published by the author

1850-1883

This is volume four of a seven volume collected edition published with dates given as 1850-1883. The work was originally published for subscribers in 35 parts between 1850 and 1883.

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The Birds of Asia

Volume V

John Gould

Completed by R. Bowdler Sharpe

Colour plates: John Gould, H.C. Richter, J. Wolf, W. Hart

Published by the author

1850-1883

This is volume fifth of a seven volume collected edition published with dates given as 1850-1883. The work was originally published for subscribers in 35 parts between 1850 and 1883.

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The Birds of Asia

Volume VI

John Gould

Completed by R. Bowdler Sharpe

Colour plates: John Gould, H.C. Richter, J. Wolf, W. Hart

Published by the author

1850-1883

This is volume sixth of a seven volume collected edition published with dates given as 1850-1883. The work was originally published for subscribers in 35 parts between 1850 and 1883.

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The Birds of Asia

Volume VII

John Gould

Completed by R. Bowdler Sharpe

Colour plates: John Gould, H.C. Richter, J. Wolf, W. Hart

Published by the author

1850-1883

This is volume seventh of a seven volume collected edition published with dates given as 1850-1883. The work was originally published for subscribers in 35 parts between 1850 and 1883.

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Last updated February 2014