Birdsong for the Curious Naturalist

Birdsong doesn’t have to be mysterious—or reserved for experts.

In Birdsong for the Curious Naturalist, leading ornithologist Donald Kroodsma offers an approachable, beautifully illustrated guide to understanding what birds are saying and how to truly listen. Written for everyone from beginner birders to experienced naturalists, this book explains why birds sing, what different calls mean, and what to listen for in the sounds around us.

Clear descriptions are paired with full-color photographs and QR codes linking to more than 700 online recordings, making it easy to hear songs, match them to birds, and build confidence through real listening. Rather than memorization, Kroodsma encourages curiosity—observing patterns, asking questions, and discovering that many mysteries of birdsong can be explored by anyone willing to pay attention.

Gentle, engaging, and deeply rewarding, Birdsong for the Curious Naturalist invites readers to slow down, listen closely, and experience birds in an entirely new way.

Perfect for: beginner birders, nature lovers, educators, walkers and hikers, backyard bird enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the sounds of the natural world.