Canadian Birds

David Allinson is the president of the Rocky Point Bird Observatory in Victoria, B.C.

This coffee-table book contains many beautiful photos of Canadian bird
life, but also identifies as a ruddy duck what is in fact a ruddy
shelduck from Europe—a bird not likely ever to be seen in the wild in
Canada. Obee identifies a black oystercatcher as an “American black
oystercatcher,” which could be confused with the similar, but more
southern, American oystercatcher. Finally, I am puzzled as to why Obee
chose to include a photo of the cormorant-like anhinga based on a single
record from 1904 in Ontario! The likelihood of another anhinga recurring
in Canada is very slim indeed, based on that species’ current range
and distribution. In addition, there could have been a broader selection
from the colorful warbler family; as many as 40 of these attractive
neotropical migrants breed in Canada, but only one graces these pages.

Such errors and omissions are unfortunate in an otherwise impressive
display of Canadian avifauna. Many of the photos are quite stunning,
especially those in the bird-of-prey section. Thomas Kitchin’s
photograph of a rough-legged hawk is a wonderful representation of the
majesty and beauty these birds convey.

Despite its shortcomings, Canadian Birds may stimulate its readers to
become more informed about the rich natural heritage Canada has to
offer.