Waterfowl of Eastern North America, 2nd edition, Chris G. Earley, Firefly Books, 159 pages, color photos, $19.95, June release.
Excellent photos (including females where there are plumage differences) of ducks, geese, swans, eiders, mergansers, grebes, loons, coot, gallinules, cormorants, and pelicans. Text is short and sweet, as are descriptive notes for seasonal plumage and distinctive markings. There are range maps, classifications, groups, look-alikes, and species status. Consider this a companion piece to Earley's previous examinations of sparrows, warblers, and hawks/owls. A handsome, well-made book, 5.5 x9.5 inches with perfect binding. The author is interpretive biologist for the arboretum at the University of Guelph in Ontario. (Note: This is the first bird ID book I've seen with maps using colors truly easily distinguished by people with color-perception deficiencies. Congratulations to Firefly! Other guide publishers please take note.)
