Birds of Washington : status and distribution /

The first such comprehensive effort since Stanley Jewett et al.'s Birds of Washington State (1953), this nicely done book presents timely data on the status, distribution, and habitat use of all known Washington State birds. After the usual introductory chapters, the book consists mainly of species accounts, each with a state range map; seasonal bar graphs for the areas west and east of the Cascades; statements on the overall statewide status, subspecies, habitats used, geographic, numerical, and seasonal occurrence; and "Noteworthy Records" lists. Most accounts are concise and well written, but a few can be somewhat confusing, especially when attempts are made to explain year-to-year variations in observed numbers (e.g., Sooty Shearwater) or where several subspecies are treated simultaneously (Canada/Cackling Goose). A statement that [Branta canadensis] occidentalis was the most common subspecies encountered in southeastern Washington surely should have referred to southwestern Washington. Also, it is not always easy to distinguish between the various shadings for winter, summer, year-round, or migration designations on the range maps. Nevertheless, this is a superb book that will be the standard for Washington ornithologists for years to come. ^BSumming Up: Essential. All levels. S. W. Harris emeritus, Humboldt State University