Books for Iowa Birders

==> Home :: More Iowa Birds & Birding :: Books for Iowa Birders

Books for Iowa Birders

These references can be helpful in learning about Iowa birds and where to find them. Most of the books are available in your local bookstore.

Birds in Iowa
Written by two of Iowa's top birders, this reference provides not only species accounts but information on geography and birding areas and a history of Iowa ornithology. Coverage includes all species on the state list at the time of publication.	By Thomas H. Kent & James J. Dinsmore Published 1996 by the authors ISBN: 0-87414-106-0
The Iowa Breeding Bird Atlas
By Laura Spess Jackson, Carol A. Thompson, and James J. Dinsmore Published 1996 by University of Iowa Press ISBN: 0-87745-561-9	This marvelous book is the culmination of many field hours contributed by a number of Iowa birders. It includes species accounts and a short life history on each of the breeding birds found in the state. A must for any active birder's library.
Iowa Birds
By Ann Johnson, Jim Bangma & Gregory Kennedy Published 2005 by Lone Pine Publishing ISBN: 1551054612 Now available at many bookstores	This compact field guide is full of interesting facts and useful information for anyone with an interest in birds, from the casual backyard observer to the keen naturalist. It features 145 of Iowa's most abundant or notable bird species with a checklist of all 410 species recorded in the state through 2004. Each account includes full-color illustrations and a range map. 176 pages.
Iowa Bird Watching
This book, with its full-color plates, not only helps identify 100 species found in Iowa but helps the new birder learn how to enjoy the hobby. Learn about migration through Iowa, what plants attract birds, and other great facts and ideas. 176 pages.	By Bill Thompson and the Staff of Bird Watcher's Digest Published 2005 by Cool Springs Press ISBN: 1-59186-164-0
Birds of Iowa Field Guide
By Stan Tekiela Published 2000 by Adventure Publications, Inc. ISBN: 1-885061-92-7	A book that is touted by new birders in Iowa. This small book has some good photographs and information about 112 species seen in the state. While more experienced birders will find the limited number of species a problem, those just getting interested in birds should give it a look.
Iowa Wildlife Viewing Guide
One of the series of national "Watchable Wildlife" guides, this book looks at four regions of the state, each with a different biotic makeup, and gives the reader directions to and descriptions of major wildlife areas.	By Stephen J. Dinsmore, Laura S. Jackson, Bruce L. Ehresman, and James J. Dinsmore Published 1995 by Falcon Press ISBN: 1-56044-349-9
A Country So Full of Game
By James J. Dinsmore Published 1996 by University of Iowa Press ISBN: 0-87745-454-X	This book deals with many game species and includes a number of Iowa birds. It gives a great perspective on the "history of Iowa's natural history" with accounts of the days that Greater Prairie Chickens were abundant and Eskimo Curlews were sold at meat markets.
Iowa Birdlife
This book, published for the Nature Conservancy, is a delightful series of accounts on various species seen in the state. Most anecdotes were originally written as newspaper columns. Easy reading and full of behavioral tidbits.	By Gladys Black Published 1992 by University of Iowa Press ISBN: 0-87745-393-4
Birds of an Iowa Dooryard
Originally published in 1952, Althea Sherman's studies of Chimney Swifts from her famous tower are legendary. Her observations of the common birds of her yard challenge many widely-held truths about birds, our environment, and human interactions in the same.	By Althea Sherman Published 1996 by University of Iowa Press ISBN: 0-87745-568-6
Listen to the Land
is a selection of outdoor and nature columns from the author's 25 years at the Des Moines Register, illustrated with more than 50 black-and-white and color photos.	Available at many bookstores, or autographed copies by mail from Larry Stone for $20, tax and postage included. Send check to: Larry Stone, 23312 295^th St., Elkader, IA 52043; or call 1-888-807-1828. ISBN: 0-931209-82-X
Sylvan T. Runkel: Citizen of the Natural World
Sylvan T. Runkel: Citizen of the Natural World As a naturalist, teacher, conservationist, pilot, musician, and coauthor of wildflower guides, Sylvan Runkel touched thousands of lives. A new biography by Larry Stone and Jon Stravers shares stories of this unforgettable Iowan. With 167 pages and 90 photos, the book will rekindle memories of Sylvan and provide insights on the heritage and experiences that shaped his life.	$15, tax included. Please add $2 for shipping. Larry A. Stone, 23312 295th St., Elkader, IA 52043 Lstone@alpinecom.net 1-888-807-1828 ISBN: 0-9729441-0-9
Iowa Sportsman's Atlas
© 1995 Sportsman's Atlas Co. Purchase at your local sporting goods store or directly from the company.	Not about birds but an invaluable reference for any Iowa birder. The detailed county maps show public land and also the remote byways that help you find such hot spots as Secret Lake. Most active birders have one for the car and one for the house.
Iowa Atlas & Gazeteer
This is a super resource for topographic information. OK, Iowa may not have many mountains but following the streams and rivers through the numerous valleys can be enlightening.	© 1998 DeLorme Publishing Co. ISBN: 0-89933-214-5
Back to top