12 Gifts for People Obsessed with Birds

Song of the Birds

A stunning and panoramic history of native birds in Aotearoa, from the bestselling author of The Meaning of Trees For millions of years, the song of the birds echoed throughout Aotearoa, with no one around to hear it. While the arrival of humans would transform their story forever - birds may have changed us even more. In this beautiful and captivating history, bestselling author Robert Vennell (The Meaning of Trees) shows the vital role birds have played in the lives of those who call Aotearoa home. From saddlebacks that can predict the weather to tūī that can talk, discover how birds have been used as a source of food, fashion, friendship, science and spirituality. Filled with stunning colour illustrations and photography, Song of the Birds is the story...

Bird of the Year

A richly illustrated, affectionate celebration of Aotearoa's native birds, and the efforts we all make to protect them. New Zealanders love their birds. Each year, thousands of us take part in Forest & Bird's campaign to bring awareness to the challenges these feathery friends face and to see who comes out on top as the coveted Bird of the Year. From rumours of Russian interference to controversial mammalian infiltration, this beautifully illustrated book shares the vibrant history of this beloved event and profiles more than 80 native birds - and one bat. Perfect for avian enthusiasts young and old, it’s a delightful blend of education, entertainment, and call to action.

The Field Guide to the Birds of New Zealand

A classic revised—the new edition of this monumental and much-loved book features its biggest update ever. A wonderful celebration of New Zealand's extraordinary and diverse birdlife. The Field Guide to the Birds of New Zealand is the modern classic of the genre—the tried and trusted reference for lovers of New Zealand birds. Comprehensive, reliable and easy to use, this fourth revised edition features: 374 species, including 35 new additions—the book's biggest revision since first publication 85 stunning colour paintings of New Zealand birds, including rare and recently extinct species An introduction to key bird-watching sites Distribution maps and an in-depth guide to field identification An additional handbook section that includes information on the distribution, habitat, population, conservation, breeding, behaviour and feeding habits of each species The only field...

Birdlands

A rare, intimate journey into the wild islands where Aotearoa's birds live beyond the reach of most human lives. In the most remote outposts of Aotearoa, our islands are populated not with people, but with birds. From the storm-lashed Subantarctic Islands in the deep south to the scattered volcanic islands of Tikapa Moana/Hauraki Gulf in the north, Birdlands offers a rare passage through the largely inaccessible places where birds still thrive. Guided by scientist and writer Edin Whitehead, Birdlands is part natural history and part love letter to these remote edges and their inhabitants, with stunning photography capturing the wonder and urgency of life among albatrosses, petrels, penguins, kakariki, kiwi and more. This is New Zealand as few of us will ever see it, wild and fragile, and...

H is for Hawk

H is for Hawk by Helen Macdonald intertwines the story of her journey through grief after her father's sudden death with her experience training a goshawk named Mabel. The book is an elegant exploration of nature, solitude, and the healing process.

A Naturalist's Guide To The Birds Of Aotearoa New Zealand

A Naturalist's Guide to the Birds of Aotearoa New Zealand is an introductory photographic guide to 250 bird species in New Zealand, including the most commonly seen, resident and endemic species. Designed for all levels of birder, it is perfect for locals and visitors alike. High-quality photographs from one of New Zealand's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, size, distribution, habits and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers climate, vegetation, biogeography and the key sites for viewing the listed species. Also included is an all-important checklist of all of the birds of New Zealand encompassing, for each species, its English, Maori and scientific names, local status, and threat level, updated in 2026. The fully revised third edition features the latest research and over...

Galison Birdhouse Lane Puzzle - 1000 Piece

Come on a charming journey through avian architecture with Christine De Carvalho's delightful 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle featuring an array of whimsical birdhouses. Each piece is a tiny window into a world of colourful creativity, inviting you to explore the cosy abodes and intricate details of these feathered dwellings. As you unravel the puzzle's intricacies, feel the sense of accomplishment with each fitting piece, and witness the scene come to life before your eyes. Galison Birdhouse Lane Puzzle - 1000 Piece Box dimensions: 11.25 x 8.5 x 2" (286 x 216 x 51mm) Puzzle dimensions: 27 x 20" (686 x 508mm) Includes Puzzle Insert

A Bird A Day

A Bird A Day by Dominic Couzens provides an intriguing exploration of a wide variety of bird species, introducing readers to a bird for each day of the year. It's a beautiful and informative guide, celebrating the diversity and marvel of avian life. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, this book offers captivating insights into the habits and habitats of birds from across the globe.

Bird

Bird by DK is an illuminating guide that explores the captivating world of birds, covering their diverse species, unique behaviours, and intricate ecosystems. This visually rich book is designed to educate and inspire readers about avian life, drawing on dazzling photography and informative text. Ideal for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers, it serves both as a detailed reference and an appreciation of the beauty and complexity of birds.

The Bird Book

Uncover the life of birds in this irresistible blend of beauty and science that informs and visually delights. Delve into the fascinating world of birds through astonishing photography and clear explanations, in this absorbing global guide. Birds are dinosaurs, with a history going back millions of years. Our fascination with them runs deep in history, and our close association is reflected in creation stories, myths, legends, songs, and children's stories. This book explores both the natural history of birds and that deep cultural connection. From their evolution and anatomy to their behaviour and diversity, spanning tiny dunnocks hiding in bushes to ostriches strong enough to knock out a lion. Articles cover a group, such as hawks, finches, swans, or birds of paradise, moving the focus away from a...

Ravensburger: Birds in the Meadow Puzzle 500 Pieces

Birds in the Meadow is a 500‑piece jigsaw puzzle produced by Ravensburger, featuring a vibrant wildflower meadow inhabited by colourful birds such as Blue Jay, Downy Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird, Ruby‑Throated Hummingbird, Red Cardinal, and the rare Northern Yellow Cardinal.The completed puzzle measures approximately 49 × 36 cm, and it is crafted from Ravensburger’s premium, extra‑thick cardboard with linen‑structured, glare‑free paper, ensuring both durability and visual quality. It is recommended for ages 12 to 99.

Words About Birds

Words About Birds by Mike Howell is a sequel to Fur to Feathers & Taniwha & Taonga. This illustrated guide blends native birds with Māori whakataukī, encouraging young (and old) readers to observe, question, and connect with Aotearoa's environment. By combining science, language, and creativity, it turns birdwatching into a rich learning experience. Over thousands of years through sunshine and rain, some species would die, and some would remain. An ecological balance in all sorts of weather … in Aotearoa, the land of the feather. Sometimes new stragglers washed up on our shore, and they found a new home ... Was there room for more? Then all sorts of strangers came flooding in. Unique natives or exotic new species, who would eventually win?