Fascinating Loons: Amazing Images and Behaviors

This handsome book is a combination photo album and text about the Common Loon. Topics discussed include folklore related to the loon, human hazards, physical features and appearance, behavior, diet, communication, nesting, incubation and early days of life, and finally, migration. Written and photographed by Stan Tekiela, this is a complete and interesting study of the Minnesota state bird.

Trees of Minnesota Field Guide

This field guide features information on 93 species (16 conifers and 77 deciduous trees). They are arranged by needle or leaf type and attachment to their branch. Each species has a two-page profile with color photos of leaves/needles, bark, flower and fruit if appropriate. Entries include information on family, size, leaf/needle description, flower, fruit, fall color, habitat, and notes by the author, Stan Tekiela. This is an essential resource for library collections.

Birds of Minnesota and Wisconsin

This field guide has information about 322 bird species found in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The introduction includes brief information on conservation practices, how to attract and feed birds, lists of birding groups in both states, a map and brief description of the top ten sites to observe birds for each state. Each species has a one-page profile with a color illustration, one-paragraph description with more detail for size, status in each state (common, endangered, etc.), habitat, nesting and feeding habits, voice, a range map, and short list of best sites to find each bird. Written by Robert Janssen, Daryl Tessen, and Gregory Kennedy, this is an essential resource for school libraries.

Just Loons

Here is a combination photography and information book about the common loon. The author, Alan Hutchinson, and photographer, Bill Silliker are both from Maine, so the information extends beyond Minnesota, but that may actually expand the usefulness of the book. In addition to excellent photos, the book includes information about the physical features, nesting habits and family, migration, loon calls and song, how to take pictures of loons, and conservation efforts. It is a beautifully assembled book.

Minnesota 24/7

(Oh heavens--where is the month of September going?)

Fitting in the category of large print photo album, this book is part of the America 24/7 project that took place in May 2003, and was the largest collaborative digital photography project in history (at least until that year). The Minnesota volume includes 713 photos from 38 photographers that show people, places, and events around the state. It is a great collection of Minnesota scenes, and is very fun to browse.