The names Ulrich Oberprieler and Burger Cillié need no introduction in birding and wildlife enthusiast circles. Their latest publication was released in 2008: “The Bird Guide of Southern Africa” / “Die Voëlgids van Suider-Afrika”
Most southern African bird books fall into two categories: those that address the needs of beginners and those that cater for experienced birdwatchers. The Bird Guide of Southern Africa fits in between: it is a field guide that is easy to use, yet is comprehensive enough to be used by serious birders.
All Southern Africa’s bird species are covered except those that are extremely unlikely to be seen, namely the pelagic seabirds and the vagrants. Instead of using the changing scientific classification system, these 809 birds are arranged into 12 easily recognisable main groups according to their visual characteristics. The 12 groups are colour coded, greatly eliminating the need to page through the book. Within each of these main bird groups, key features of the various families and sub-groups are also given.
The Bird Guide of Southern Africa has short but very descriptive text, which together with the outstanding photographs illustrate the different species and colour variations of birds. An updated distribution map accompanies each description. Useful information in the form of symbols is also provided on habitats, food, nesting and social behaviour.
The Bird Guide of Southern Africa addresses an important need in an easy yet professional way. No birder should be without it!
ISBN: 0-62038-550-2
U. Oberprieler; B. Cililé
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