****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
The Audubon Society brings together all the elements of field identification in this DVD - each bird species' 30 to 40 second clip includes still photographs, the bird's distinctive call, and a video of its distinguishing behavior - be it flight pattern, tail wagging, or how it moves up and down a tree. This DVD is an essential tool for both the serious and casual bird watcher.The 2 DVD set documents 505 birds that reliably breed north of Mexico. The menu system divides the birds in specific groups, following the classification used in field guides. (Loons are the first group on the first DVD). Within each group each species is listed. One can select a clip for a specific group of birds or a specific bird, or watch the DVD in its entirety as it moves sequentially through the various bird groups.Each entry shows a still picture of the bird, providing its length, wingspan, and key field marks. Immature, Adult, Male, Female, and Breeding plumage are shown as needed. The bird's most characteristic call is played over the narration, and in many cases there is a video clip of the bird in flight, or displaying characteristic behavior. The narrator demonstrates how distinguish similar birds with either side by side photographs or with a video clip of the two species together.Finally, a range map is displayed showing breeding, summer, winter, and all season ranges. A deeper hue is used to indicate where in the range the species population is densest. The narrator adds to this map by indicating when and where some birds might be found outside their range.These DVDs are a key tool in bird identification, pulling together various bird guides and video programs about birds - one can key in to one bird or a specific group of birds using the easy to follow menu system, or simply watch the dvd from beginning to end to view the remarkable variety of our North American feathered friends.
