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Big Learning > Bird Books for Early Spring

Bird Books for Kids

Early Spring Sitings

The crocuses are up and a few robins have been sighted. Does the approaching springtime makes you think about exploring nature again? These two books may give you and your kids or students some bird-related events to look for as you venture outdoors.

Urban Roosts: Where Birds Nest in the City by Barbara Bash (Little Brown & Company, 1992).
Ages 6-10.

There's plenty of nature in the city, and Urban Roosts can help kids find it. Many species of birds have adapted to city life and build nests in predictable places - you just have to know where to look. This book includes drawings and descriptions of common urban birds and their preferred nesting and roosting spots. Some city birds nest year-round, which makes them perfect for early spring observations.

On the Wing: American Birds in Migration by Carol Lerner (HarperCollins, 2001).
Ages 9-12

Sightings of migrating species herald the coming of spring. This book describes nine types of migration habits, including long-range and east west migration. It includes maps of inter-continental "migration highways" and ranges of migrating species. Even more fascinating is the science behind the migration - scientists are beginning to understand how birds find their way and what triggers their migration. Throughout, the writing is clear and engaging. If you've noticed robins appearing or geese on the wing, this is a great way to understand more about your observations.