BOISE - Curious about that bird you spotted at Ann Morrison Park or while hiking in the Boise Foothills? A new pocket-size guide will help take the mystery out of bird watching in the City of Trees.
The "Field Guide to Boise's Birds" features 99 birds commonly found in Boise parks, neighborhoods and open spaces. The book, produced by the Boise Parks & Recreation Department with the help of local bird experts, offers full-color photos, species descriptions and information about conservation and the economic impact of bird watching.
The guide was the brainchild of Boise ornithologist Terry Rich, who met with Parks & Recreation staff last year to propose the guide as a way to promote bird appreciation and conservation.
Department managers say Rich's expertise, along with input from several other experts and photographers who donated local images, were integral in making the book a success.
“Since last fall, we’ve been adding names to a waiting list of people wanting to purchase the guide when it became available," said Community Programs Coordinator Jerry Pugh. "One of the greatest draws, and something we’re extremely proud of, is that all but four of the 99 birds we highlighted were photographed right here in Boise."
The guide sells for $8 and is available at the Boise Parks & Recreation administration office located at 1104 Royal Boulevard, at the east entrance to Ann Morrison Park in downtown Boise.
The online version of “Field Guide to Boise’s Birds” can be viewed here.
