Algirdas Knystautas

Basics: 1993, hardcover, 256 pages, 296 color and 65 b&w photos of birds, 42 color photos of habitat, 800 species discussed, several range maps

This book is a hybrid between a photo guide and a general introduction to Russia’s avifauna. It appears to serve two purposes. One, is to document and discuss all the birds found in Russia; and, two, to offer a general book to appeal to those with a casual or beginning interest in the birds of this area.

Fewer than 300 of Russia’s 800+ species are shown with a color photo. Another 65 or so are illustrated with a black-and-white photo. These photos are of fair quality; although, they are a little on the small size. These photos are not geared towards identification, but to offer a decent image for the interested naturalist and birder.

The text is a bit different. It’s laid out like a typical textbook where you read through the chapters to learn about each bird. The primary information discusses the bird’s habitat, nesting, some behavior, and other natural history information. There is very little, if any information, given to describe the appearance of the bird.

The first 64 pages of the book introduce the reader to Russia’s geography, ecosystems, avifauna, migration and movements, and conservation.

If you want to get an introduction to Russia’s birds and their natural history along with some decent photos, you’ll probably enjoy this book.

I’ve listed several related books below…
1) A Field Guide to Birds of the USSR by Flint
2) Birds of Fauna of Ukraine: The Field Guide by Fesenko
3) The Birds of Kazakhstan by Wassink
4) Birds of the Soviet Union: Volumes 1-6 by Dementev et al.
5) Atlas: Birds of Moscow City and the Moscow Region by Kalyakin
6) Natural History of the USSR by Knystautas… (mehr)