Discover the Cutthroat World of Competitive Birding in "Big Manhattan Year"

Embark on an Unforgettable Birding Adventure

For bird enthusiasts and avid nature lovers, "Big Manhattan Year" offers an enthralling journey into the captivating world of competitive birding. Written by award-winning author Bruce Berglund, this book takes readers on an extraordinary odyssey through the heart of New York City, where birding becomes an exhilarating pursuit.

A Big Manhattan Year: Tales of Competitive Birding

by David Barrett

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1871 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	232 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Rules of the Game

At the core of "Big Manhattan Year" lies the concept of the "Big Year," an intense competition where birders strive to spot the greatest number of bird species within a specific geographic region and time period. In this case, the stage is set in the urban jungle of Manhattan, the most compact and densely populated county in the United States.

Despite the seemingly insurmountable challenges, a group of passionate birders embarks on this arduous endeavor. The boundaries are well-defined: the island of Manhattan, from the Battery to the Bronx, including all parks, streets, and rooftops. The rules are clear: only birds seen or heard within the designated area during the calendar year count.

The Characters and Their Obsessions

Taking center stage are a diverse cast of characters, each driven by an unyielding obsession with birds. Among them is Brian Washington, a young competitive birder eager to make his mark. There's Spencer Hardy, an aging naturalist with a profound knowledge of Manhattan's avian treasures. And then there's Elise Mears, a photography enthusiast whose sharp eye for detail transforms bird sightings into stunning images.

As these birders navigate the bustling streets of the metropolis, their lives become intertwined in a web of rivalries, friendships, and unexpected alliances. Their shared passion for birds becomes a catalyst for personal growth, self-discovery, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world amidst the urban sprawl.

A Symphony of Birdlife Amidst Urban Chaos

"Big Manhattan Year" not only chronicles the competitive aspect of birding but also paints a vivid tapestry of the remarkable birdlife that thrives in the heart of New York City. From the familiar songs of cardinals and robins to the elusive sightings of peregrine falcons and painted buntings, the book introduces readers to the incredible diversity and resilience of urban avifauna.

Berglund's lyrical prose captures the beauty and complexity of these avian encounters. He describes the symphony of bird songs that echo through Central Park at dawn, the delicate fluttering of a hummingbird's wings, and the majestic soaring of an eagle over the Hudson River. Through his keen observations, he reveals the hidden natural wonders that exist within the concrete jungle.

Beyond Competition: Environmental Awareness and Conservation

While the competitive element provides an adrenaline rush for the birders, "Big Manhattan Year" also highlights the broader environmental significance of birding. As the participants scour the city's parks and urban oases, they become unwitting advocates for the preservation and restoration of these vital habitats.

The book raises important questions about the challenges faced by urban wildlife in a rapidly changing world. It emphasizes the need for green spaces, sustainable urban planning, and a conscious effort to protect the fragile ecosystems that support biodiversity.

A Captivating Narrative for All Readers

"Big Manhattan Year" is not just a book for birders; it's a compelling and entertaining story for readers from all walks of life. Berglund's engaging writing style and vivid descriptions transport readers into the heart of the action, whether they're seasoned birders or simply curious about the natural world.

The book offers a unique blend of adventure, natural history, and human drama. It celebrates the thrill of discovery, the power of obsession, and the enduring bond between humans and the natural world.

Book Details

* Title: Big Manhattan Year: Tales of Competitive Birding * Author: Bruce Berglund * Publisher: Simon & Schuster * Genre: Nature Writing, Nonfiction, Birding * Publication Date: May 8, 2023 * : 978-1982154748

"Big Manhattan Year" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the joy of birding, the wonders of the natural world, and the resilience of life in the face of urban challenges. Bruce Berglund's captivating narrative takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Manhattan, revealing the hidden beauty, fierce competition, and profound environmental insights that lie within its urban landscape.

A Big Manhattan Year: Tales of Competitive Birding

by David Barrett

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1871 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	232 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE