Despite their small sizes, Maryland and Washington, DC, possess a vast range of environments-from the high peaks of the Allegheny Ridges to the low marshes of the Chesapeake Bay. Home to 200 nesting bird species, these habitats are under constant threat from urban sprawl, changing farming practices, and the degradation of coastal wetlands. The Second Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Maryland and the District of Columbia documents the impact of these environmental changes on the region's bird population and discusses the recovery of the endangered Bald Eagle and the new confirmation of breeding by three species-the Common Merganser, the Ruddy Duck, and the Double-crested Cormorant. Species accounts, each with a stunning color photograph, provide detailed coverage of the habitats, biology, and relative abundance of mid-Atlantic nesting birds. Up-to-date maps reflect changes in their breeding ranges and distributions over the past two decades. Of perhaps greatest value are the comparative analyses with data from the first statewide survey conducted in the 1980s. Treasured by birders-and an invaluable reference for ornithologists, conservationists, and land use planners-this book will significantly influence our understanding and management of avian species in the region for the next decade.

A vital reference for anyone interested in birds or biodiversity conservation in the region. -- David Curson, Audubon Maryland-D.C. This atlas is such a treasure trove... I can't imagine anyone with a genuine interest in birds of the Middle Atlantic area not getting a copy of this fascinating compendium. -- Harry Armistead, former Regional Editor, Middle Atlantic Coast Region, American Birds 2011

About the Author
Walter G. Ellison is the project coordinator of the Maryland and D.C. Breeding Bird Atlas Project at the Maryland Ornithological Society.

Reviews
An invaluable reference... This book will significantly influence our understanding and management of avian species in the region for the next decade. A must have for birders of the region! -- Ian Paulson Guardian 2011 This is likely to remain the gold-standard reference on Maryland's birds-at least until a third atlas appears in, say, 2030. -- Scott Weidensaul Maryland Yellowthroat 2011 My favorite new naturalist reads these days if the 2nd Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Maryland and the District of Columbia. -- Stephanie Mason Audubon Naturalist News 2011



Book Information
ISBN 9780801895760
Author Walter G. Ellison
Format Hardback
Page Count 520
Imprint Johns Hopkins University Press
Publisher Johns Hopkins University Press
Weight(grams) 2064g
Dimensions(mm) 279mm * 216mm * 34mm