Handbook of Western Palearctic Birds. 2 volumes : Passerines: Larks to Warblers ; Volume 2, Passerines: Flycatchers to Buntings

This handbook represents the most complete photographic guide to the birds of the Western Palearctic ever published, with the first two volumes dedicated to the 493 species of passerines known from the region. The text offers comprehensive advice on identification, ageing, sexing and moult, and gives a detailed summary of geographical variation within the treated range. All contemporary subspecies have been independently re-assessed, and listed if found to be sufficiently distinct, with separate biometrics for all.
The handbook reflects most of the latest changes in taxonomy, and offers notes on these and on unresolved problems. Maps of unrivalled accuracy show up-to-date ranges (including subspecies) along with main migration directions. The photographic coverage aims to portray all important plumages including sexes, ages and seasonal and geographical variation. Captions discuss how to age birds using moult limits (if possible), and highlight important field characters.
Together, the fire two volumes of The Handbook of Western Palearctic Birds include more than 5000 photographs, the contributions of more than 850 outstanding bird photographers.