Those magnificent raptors Seeing a hawk riding lofty air currents of hearing an owl calling through the darkness is awe-inspiring to most observers. Yet, while many of us find these birds interesting, they can be a difficult group to identify. Many hawks zip past us too quickly, and the nocturnal habits of most owls leave us in the dark about their appearance. This book will help you identify these fascinating birds as well as learn a bit about their natural history. When trying to identify birds it is important to remember the following motto: I don't know. Really, it's okay to say it. Too many birders will get an inconclusive view of a bird and then just guess. With practice, you can identify birds from incredibly short glimpses of them, but there will always be some "I don't knows." And even if you do get a good look and still can't identify the bird, you will have learned from the process. The next time you see that species, it will be familiar to you and you may see another field mark or behavior to help in its identification. And don't forget to watch the birds as well! Keeping a checklist is fun and a way to record your sightings, but careful observations will help you understand these interesting creatures. Watching birds in their environment reveals interactions that link all of nature together. Excerpted from Hawks and Owls of the Great Lakes Region and Eastern North America by Chris G. Earley All rights reserved by the original copyright owners. Excerpts are provided for display purposes only and may not be reproduced, reprinted or distributed without the written permission of the publisher.