Why do so many people want to go birding in California? What are some of the best areas in California to go birding? What is the California state bird? If you find yourself asking any of these questions, then this book is for you....

50 Things to Know About the Birds in California by author Jessica Dumas offers an elegant approach to finding the most beautiful and varied species of birds on the continent. Most books on birding tell you to travel to specific locations and hotspots for one or two prize species on your life list. Although there's nothing wrong with that, this book takes another approach. Here we present you with the regional view of the state and help you to locate the habitats and special locations near your travel destination. From this view, we will help you find a diverse community of birds and celebrate the similarities between species.

California is the third largest state in the United States with only Alaska and Texas being larger. California has close to 163,700 square miles of tremendously diverse terrains from coastal regions to mountains and deserts. Breeding and migrating overlaps within these areas for many species of birds. Several species migrate to the warmth of California in the winter months. The state is uniquely positioned to offer a variety of habitats throughout the year. Based on knowledge from the world’s leading experts, understanding the role birds play in their habitat brings a greater appreciation to the art of bird watching.

This book will list some of the favorite birding locations in Southern, Central, and Northern California that are closest to the main metropolitan areas. These areas consist of Los Angeles and San Diego in Southern California, Fresno in Central California, and San Francisco and Sacramento in Northern California. After each location will be listed some of the unique bird species that are residents or migrants. Also included are helpful hints on how to be prepared to go birding and how to identify more challenging bird species.

By the time you finish this book, you will know at least 50 things about birds and birding in California. So buy your copy today. You'll be glad you did!