Here was my normal birding routine. I poured myself a cup of coffee. I looked out the window and saw a little gray bird. "Gee", I wondered, "What is that?" I pulled the North American Bird Guide off the shelf and three cups of coffee later, I'm still wondering what I saw. But, I had it narrowed down to a mere four dozen birds.

Birds of Wisconsin makes this search a snap. First, there are only 111 birds in the whole book - and they are birds that I actually see in Wisconsin! Second, there is a large picture (4" x 6") of every bird with a description on the opposite page - what a great idea! Third, there is a Wisconsin state map showing the range of the bird (summer, winter, year round).

Each description contains information on size, male / female / juvenile characteristics, nest, eggs, incubation, fledging, migration, food, and notes. The notes point out which bird looks similar and what to compare. Also contains interesting facts and comments. Did you know a House Sparrow was really a Finch?

The book contains a two page index / checklist (when you only have 111 birds, you can fit them on two pages).

Identifying birds is once again fun. I actually can find the bird that I'm after, and often before it flies away.

Book images are crisp and clean. Excellent information and interesting notes throughout. Very easy to use, and fits nicely in a jacket pocket.

Great book for Wisconsin birders!

PS: The little gray bird was a White Crowned Sparrow :-)