Bird enthusiasts now have a simple, informative text to enhance our enjoyment. Whether we are in the field or reflecting on a favorite bird moment, Sandrock and Prior add another facet to expand our knowledge and increase appreciation for birds in our lives. Neil P. Bernstein, Mount Mercy University.

In this well-organized guide, Sandrock and Prior provide concise descriptions of the origin of scientific and common names of birds in the Upper Midwest. The authors show clearly how the scientific names are based on the color, body shape, or other characteristics of each species. Moving beyond identification, this book opens a new level of understanding for those who enjoy birds.James J. Dinsmore, author, A Country So Full of Game.

The translation and explanation of genus and species names yield markers to help us identify birds in the field as well as remember distinctive traits. Having a basic understanding of the scientific and common names of birds reveals insights into their color, behavior, habitat, or geography. Knowing that Cyanocitta means blue chatterer and cristata means crested, tufted or that Anas means a duck and clypeata means armed with a shield tells you just about everything you need to identify a Blue Jay or a Northern Shoveler. In this portable reference book, James Sandrock and Jean Prior explain the science and history behind the names of some 450 birds of the Upper Midwest states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North and South Dakota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Since many of these birds occur throughout the United States, this handbook can also be used by birders in other parts of the country.