An illustrated natural history and a passionate account of extinct and endangered bird species from around the world

Internationally renowned, award-winning author Anita Albus recounts the sad histories of several extinct bird species, including the passenger pigeon, the Carolina parakeet, and the great auk. She also gives a detailed account of seven rare birds: the hermit ibis, the elusive corncrake, the kookaburra, the Eurasian nightjar, the barn owl, the northern hawk owl, and the kingfisher.

This visually stunning book is richly illustrated with the author’s own artwork as well as that of well-known nature artists such as John James Audubon. Combining natural history and investigative reporting, the book also weaves in mythological and cultural material and, most of all, tells a compelling story.

On Rare Birds shows that the extinction of these bird species is a great loss not only to the natural world but also to culture. With each species lost, a world is lost to human understanding—to our arts, mythology, and science. This exciting and provocative book will appeal to all those who love birds and care about their survival.

“Albus doesn’t just show you things; she teaches you how to see for yourself.” MENDELSOHN, New York Review of Books on The Art of Arts