Birdwatching in New Hampshire

One of the keys to bird watching, which he discusses in his book, is that sighting birds is not always a matter of happy accident. Luck plays a part, but he’s learned over the years that you can better your chances by knowing when birds migrate, their preferred habitats and stopping points. 'It’s a game of timing and weather and geographic location,' he observed. 'It’s a learned skill when things are going to occur, and where they’re going to occur.'

In addition to tips on how to recognize the best birding weather, what times of day are best and how to use binoculars or telescopes, Masterson devotes a chapter to each of six regions of the state. Maps show how to reach many of the best birdwatching sites and Masterson includes descriptions of what birds are likely to be seen at each location. Each chapter includes Masterson’s personal anecdotes about his own experiences in the area.He also writes at length about how weather can impact a day of birding - how wind patterns, cold fronts and warm fronts at different times of the year can make all the difference when it comes to spotting birds in the field.

Eric Masterson has written an excellent bird-finding guide. It is clearly written, beautifully illustrated, and nicely designed. Not only does he give clear descriptions of where to find birds in New Hampshire, but he also details when and under what weather conditions they are most likely seen. Up-to-date references to internet sites are also a welcome feature. This guide is a must-have for anybody birding New England.

Eric Masterson has covered all the ground in New Hampshire. He doesn’t just know its birds and their habitats, he knows its fields, forests, mountains, and waterways. I can’t wait to own this book, featuring the very best sites and the very best times to find birds in New Hampshire.

A fun read!! Well written. Well illustrated. Great photographs. Packed with information. My only complaint is that Eric Masterson didn’t produce this guide when I first moved to New Hampshire sixteen years ago. It would have saved a lot of wear and tear on my old body looking for all the right birds in all the wrong places!

Birdwatching in New Hampshire is a must for every serious birder in New England. Original, well-organized and warmly written, this volume by master birder Eric Masterson will give you all the details you need to catch the most exciting avian spectacles in the granite state, from kettling hawks to puffins on the high seas. It will transform your birding ventures afield.