Quick Take

Most people would love to be able to fly like a bird, but few of us are aware of the other sensations that make being a bird a gloriously unique experience. What is going on inside the head of a nightingale as it sings, and how does its brain improvise? How do desert birds detect rain hundreds of kilometers away? How do birds navigate by using an innate magnetic compass?Tracing the history of how our knowledge about birds has grown, particularly through advances in technology over the past fifty years, Bird Sense tells captivating stories about how birds interact with one another and their environment. More advanced testing methods have debunked previously held beliefs, such as female starlings selecting mates based on how symmetrical the male's plumage markings are. (Whereas females can discern the difference between symmetrical and asymmetrical markings, they are not very good at detecting small differences among symmetrically marked males!)Never before has there been a popular book about how intricately bird behavior is shaped by birds' senses. A lifetime spent studying birds has provided Tim Birkhead with a wealth of fieldwork experiences, insights, and a unique understanding of birds, all firmly grounded in science. No one who reads Bird Sense can fail to be dazzled by it.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Bird Sense: What It's Like to Be a Bird

Introduction

"Bird Sense: What It's Like to Be a Bird" by Tim Birkhead is a captivating book that delves into the intricate world of bird behavior and sensory experiences. Birkhead, an award-winning author and renowned bird biologist, shares his extensive knowledge and passion for birds, providing readers with a unique perspective on how birds perceive the world. This book explores various aspects of bird senses, including vision, hearing, touch, taste, smell, and magnetic navigation, as well as emotions and consciousness. Throughout the book, Birkhead presents a fascinating blend of historical research and contemporary scientific findings, offering readers an engaging and informative journey into the lives of birds.

About Tim Birkhead

Tim Birkhead is an accomplished author and one of the world's leading bird biologists. He has spent a lifetime studying birds and has published extensively on the subject. Birkhead's expertise in ornithology and his passion for birds have made him a respected figure in the scientific community. His previous works, such as "Ten Thousand Birds: Ornithology since Darwin" and "The Most Perfect Thing: The Inside (and Outside) of a Bird’s Egg," have garnered critical acclaim and showcase his deep understanding of bird behavior and biology. With "Bird Sense: What It's Like to Be a Bird," Birkhead continues to share his knowledge and enthusiasm for birds with a wider audience.

Analysis of Views

Unusual and Fascinating: Readers praise the book for its unusual and captivating approach to exploring bird senses. They appreciate Birkhead's ability to present complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner, making it enjoyable for both experts and casual readers.
Mastery of Biology and Ornithology: Many readers commend Birkhead's mastery of biology and ornithology, stating that the book offers a wealth of information on the subject. They appreciate the historical context provided by Birkhead, which adds depth to their understanding of bird behavior and sensory experiences.
Engaging Storytelling: Birkhead's storytelling skills are highly regarded by readers. He skillfully weaves personal anecdotes and adventurous scenes into the narrative, making the book engaging and entertaining. The stories provide a glimpse into the author's personal journey and enhance the overall reading experience.
In-Depth Exploration: Readers appreciate the in-depth exploration of various bird senses presented in the book. They find it fascinating to learn about birds' unique abilities, such as their ability to see ultraviolet light or navigate using magnetic compasses. The book offers a comprehensive understanding of bird sensory experiences that goes beyond what is commonly known.
Accessible Writing Style: Birkhead's writing style is praised for being accessible and easy to understand. Readers with no prior knowledge of birds or scientific background find it enjoyable to read the book, as Birkhead explains complex concepts in a clear and concise manner.

Reasons for Recommendation

Unusual Perspective: The book offers an unusual perspective on birds, exploring their sensory experiences beyond the traditional human-centric viewpoint. This unique approach provides readers with a fresh understanding of birds and their world.
Comprehensive Coverage: "Bird Sense" covers a wide range of bird senses, including vision, hearing, touch, taste, smell, and magnetic navigation. The book offers readers a comprehensive understanding of bird behavior and sensory experiences, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in birds.
Engaging Storytelling: Birkhead's storytelling skills make the book engaging and entertaining. The personal anecdotes and adventurous scenes add depth to the narrative and make it enjoyable to read.
Mastery of Subject Matter: Tim Birkhead's expertise in ornithology shines through in the book. Readers appreciate his mastery of biology and ornithology, which adds credibility to the information presented.
Accessible Writing Style: The writing style is accessible and easy to understand, making it suitable for both experts and casual readers. Readers with no prior knowledge of birds or scientific background find it enjoyable to read the book.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Limited Focus on Emotions: Some readers feel that the book does not delve deeply enough into emotions and consciousness in birds. They would have liked to see more exploration of these topics, which are considered essential aspects of animal behavior and cognition.
Lack of Personal Reflection: A few readers feel that Birkhead's personal journey is not adequately explored in the book. They would have liked to see more reflection from the author on his own experiences and insights gained from studying birds over his lifetime.

Conclusion

"Bird Sense: What It's Like to Be a Bird" by Tim Birkhead is a captivating book that offers readers an unusual perspective on birds' sensory experiences. With its comprehensive coverage of various bird senses, engaging storytelling, mastery of subject matter, accessible writing style, and unique approach to exploring bird behavior, this book is highly recommended for anyone interested in birds or animal behavior in general. While some readers feel that the book could have delved deeper into emotions and consciousness or provided more personal reflection from the author, overall "Bird Sense" is an informative and entertaining read that leaves a lasting impression on its readers.