NSTA Award Winning Bird Books, 2000-2019 (Updated)

Birdy Books

Rationale: At my small private elementary school, birds are a very important part of the science curriculum. We have a spiraling sequential curriculum, resulting in a topic appearing in several grades, but with a different twist so as not to repeat content and concepts. For example, in first grade students learn about specific birds: chickens, penguins, bluebirds, birds wintering in our area. Then, in 4th grade students learn about assorted birds found in our state and birds of prey and do a beginning research project. Finally, in 7th grade life science, students learn characteristics of the animal families, one of which is birds. Sometimes the 7th grade science teacher has students do a research project about a bird, emphasizing the environmental and ecological changes affecting the bird. 

A National Science Teachers Association book and resources committee annually chooses and publishes a list of Outstanding Science Trade Books.(For criteria for selection, see Books Alive entry “NSTA Award Winning Frog Books.”) Birds of all kinds tend to be a favorite choice. When I did a count of bird books selected by the NSTA committee from 2000 to 2020, I found over sixty titles about birds or related topics such as bird relatives, eggs, feathers, wings, nests, habitat, etc. I didn’t want or need to have sixty lessons about birds, so decided to group the titles by grade level for teachers or librarians to use as a selection resource for a library or resource center. I have also included a few other “bird” books that could/should be part of a collection, and the out of print and temporarily out of stock titles as a reminder that they are still good resources even though you can’t currently buy them. 

If you’re a teacher or librarian reading this blog, check your shelves for titles you already have, mark them, then visit your principal or PTA officers with the list that’s appropriate for your grade level and request funding. That is, if you do bird units. This blog can serve as a selection tool for the specific topic of birds.

One could easily cluster the titles around the following topics:  Bird Rescues, Specific birds, Bird watching, Ornithologists, Eggs, Feathers, Wings, Nests, Dinosaur birds, Habitats, Penguins, Raptors and Predators, Owls, Flight, Ecology, Tracks & Scat, Nests and nesting, Songbirds.  

Grades K-3--NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Books about Birds

Birds make nests by Garland, Michael — Holiday House, 2017. 598.156; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 1.4. Text and illustrations describe different types of birds nests. Birds are labeled with their American English common names. NSTA 2018.

Planting the wild garden by Galbraith, Kathryn Osebold — Peachtree, 2011. -E-; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 2.2.  Looks at how wind and water, birds and animals, plants and people work together unaware to create a wild meadow garden. NSTA 2012.

A house in the sky : and other uncommon animal homes by Jenkins, Steve  — Charlesbridge, 2018. 591.56; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 2.3. Dual layers of text explain how and why diverse animals make homes specific to their needs. From the turtle's shell, the beaver's lodge, or the seal's cave, each animal requires a special kind of home. NSTA. 2019. 

Fur, feather, fin : all of us are kin by Lang, Diane — Beach Lane Books, 2018. 590.2; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 2.7. A rhyming tour through the amazing animal kingdom, from mammals to millipedes and everything in between! NSTA 2019.

Paddle perch climb : bird feet are neat by Angus, Laurie — Dawn Publications, 2017. 598.147; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 2.7. Introduces children to various types of bird feet. Each type is perfectly adapted to help a bird find food and escape predators in different habitats including: pond, river, desert, forest, and meadow. NSTA 2018.

Spit & sticks : a chimney full of swifts by Grohoske Evans, Marilyn — Charlesbridge, 2015. 598.7; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 2.7. Describes the life cycle of chimney swifts as they build a nest in a chimney to lay eggs, and raise their young. CCBC, NSTA 2016

Circle by Baker, Jeannie — Candlewick Press, 2016. -E-; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.0. Each year, bar-tailed godwits undertake the longest unbroken migration of any bird, flying from their breeding grounds in the Arctic to Australia and New Zealand and back again. They follow invisible pathways--pathways that have been followed for thousands of years--while braving hunger and treacherous conditions to reach their destination... follows the godwit's incredible flight, taking us over awe-inspiring scenes as the birds spread their wings above such beautiful landmarks as the Great Barrier Reef and China's breathtaking cityscapes. NSTA 2017.

Hummingbird by Davies, Nicola — Candlewick Press, 2019. 598.764; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.0.Every spring, birds small enough to fit in the palm of your hand fly two thousand miles north to lay their eggs. This is the story of one tiny hummingbird's amazing journey. CCBc, NSTA 2020.

Counting birds : the idea that helped save our feathered friendsby Stemple, Heidi E. Y — Seagrass Press, 2018. 598.072; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.3. Introduces to children the idea of bird counts and bird watches. Along the way, they will learn about Frank Chapman, who used his bird knowledge and magazine "Bird-Lore" to found the first annual bird count which was the origin of The Audubon Christmas Bird Count, an event that continues one hundred years later. NSTA 2019.

World of birds by Hunter, Robert  — Wide Eyed, 2018. 598; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.3. A collection of facts on birds, organized by habitat. Includes bird sounds/songs. NSTA 2019.

Birds build nests by Pascoe, Elaine — G. Stevens, c2000 p2002--598.156; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.4 Describes some of the various places where birds build nests and lay their eggs. NSTA List 2001.

Here is the wetland by Dunphy, Madeleine  — Web of Life Children's Books, 2007. 577.68; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.4. Provides a cumulative approach to describe the wetland ecology of a fresh water marsh, the most common type of wetland in North America. NSTA 2008.

About woodpeckers : a guide for children by Sill, Cathryn P — Peachtree Publishers, 2018. 598.7; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.5. An illustrated introduction to woodpeckers. NSTA 2019.

Pond by Morrison, Gordon — Houghton Mifflin, 2002. 577.63; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.6. Observes how a glacial pond and the abundance of plants and animals that draw life from it change over the course of a year. NSTA 2003. OP

A place to start a family : poems about creatures that build by Harrison, David L — Charlesbridge, 2018. 811; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.7. Contains poetry showing twelve animals and their habitations. NSTA 2019.

Birds of a feather by Pittau, Francisco  — Chronicle Books, 2012--598; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.8 Liftable flaps reveal colorful pop-up illustrations of birds with brief providing facts about each bird. An engagingly beautiful life-the-flap book in which children use pictures of eggs, feathers and silhouettes to determine which bird is being depicted. Intriguing factual information is included about each bird as its identity is revealed. NSTA 2013, POS

The long, long journey : the godwit's amazing migration by Markle, Sandra — Millbrook Press, 2013--598.3; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.8 Tells the story of the annual migration of the Bar-tailed godwit. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at www.titlewave.com  NSTA List 2014. eBook

Life in the boreal forest by Guiberson, Brenda Z — Henry Holt, 2009. : 578.73; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.2. Text and watercolor paintings describe the plants, animals, and climate of the boreal forest and discuss threats to the ecosystem. NSTA 2010.

The boy who drew birds : a story of John James Audubon by Davies, Jacqueline — Houghton Mifflin, 2004--598; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.4 John James Audubon, living in Pennsylvania far from his home and father in France, continues his obsession with birds, and comes up with the idea of banding the legs of his pewee bird friends to see if they will return in the spring to the nests they abandoned in the fall. 

FREE Teaching Resources available for download at www.titlewave.com NSTA 2005.

What bluebirds do by Kirby, Pamela F  — Boyds Mills Press, 2009. 598.8; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.5. Full-color photographs and easy-to-follow text details the unique characteristics and behaviors of bluebirds, and also describes courtship, nesting, hatchlings, fledglings, diet, and other related topics. NSTA 2010. POS.

Saving birds : heroes around the world by Salmansohn, Pete — Tilbury House, 2003. 333.95; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 4.6. Profiles adults and children working in six habitats around the world to save wild birds, some of which are on the brink of extinction. NSTA 2004. OS.

Even an ostrich needs a nest : where birds begin by Kelly, Irene — Holiday House, 2009--598.156; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.7 Illustrations and simple text introduce young readers to the different ways that birds build their nests. NSTA List 2010 . OP

Eggs by Singer, Marilyn — Holiday House, 2008. 591.4; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.9.  Explains the varieties, functions, and characteristics of the eggs of a multitude of creatures, including insects, birds, and reptiles. NSTA 2009. OP

Wilderness : Earth's amazing habitats by Cassany, Mia — Prestel, 2019 577; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.9. An illustrated look at sixteen natural landscapes that are home to countless species of animals and plants. The animals that live in these remote places, cleverly hidden in the trees, plants, and flowers, create a marvelous challenge for young readers to find and identify. Each spread contains more than twenty different species including birds, snakes, frogs, iguanas, leopards, tigers, gorillas, pandas, and wolves. NSTA 2020

Feathers : not just for flying by Stewart, Melissa — Charlesbridge, 2014--598.147; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 5.1 Young naturalists meet sixteen birds in this introduction to the many uses of feathers. NSTA 2015.

A place for birds by Stewart, Melissa — Peachtree, 2009--598; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 5.2

Explores some of the ways in which humans have affected bird populations across the nation and the steps that have been taken to protect them. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at www.titlewave.com NSTA 2010.

Into the deep : the life of naturalist and explorer William Beebe by Sheldon, David — Charlesbridge, 2009. 508; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 6.2. A picture-book biography that follows the life and adventures of American naturalist, explorer, and author William Beebe, the father of deep-sea exploration. NSTA 2010.

Grades K-3--Other Bird Titles worth adding to the Collection

Birds by Henkes, Kevin  — Greenwillow Books, 2009--E-; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 2.1 Fascinated by the colors, shapes, sounds, and movements of the many different birds she sees through her window, a little girl is happy to discover that she and they have something in common. 

Grades 3-6--NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Books about Birds

The robin makes a laughing sound : a birder's journal by Wolf, Sallie — Charlesbridge, 2010--598; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 3.1 Provides information, sketches, and journaling prompts for bird-watchers. NSTA 2011.

Counting birds : the idea that helped save our feathered friendsby Stemple, Heidi E. Y — Seagrass Press, 2018. 598.072; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.3. Introduces to children the idea of bird counts and bird watches. Along the way, they will learn about Frank Chapman, who used his bird knowledge and magazine "Bird-Lore" to found the first annual bird count which was the origin of The Audubon Christmas Bird Count, an event that continues one hundred years later. NSTA 2019.

World of birds by Hunter, Robert  — Wide Eyed, 2018. 598; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.3. A collection of facts on birds, organized by habitat. Includes bird sounds/songs. NSTA 2019.

Birds build nests (How And Why: Springboards Into Science) by Pascoe, Elaine  — G. Stevens, c2000 p2002. 598.156; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.4. Describes some of the various places where birds build nests and lay their eggs. NSTA 2003.

Here is the wetland by Dunphy, Madeleine — Web of Life Children's Books, 2007. 577.68; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.4. Provides a cumulative approach to describe the wetland ecology of a fresh water marsh, the most common type of wetland in North America. NSTA 2008.

About woodpeckers : a guide for children by Sill, Cathryn P — Peachtree Publishers, 2018. 598.7; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.5. An illustrated introduction to woodpeckers. NSTA 2019.

Pond by Morrison, Gordon  — Houghton Mifflin, 2002. 577.63; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.6. Observes how a glacial pond and the abundance of plants and animals that draw life from it change over the course of a year. NSTA 2003. OP

A place to start a family : poems about creatures that build by Harrison, David L — Charlesbridge, 2018. 811; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.7. Contains poetry showing twelve animals and their habitations. NSTA 2019.

Birds of a feather by Pittau, Francisco  — Chronicle Books, 2012--598; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.8 Liftable flaps reveal colorful pop-up illustrations of birds with brief providing facts about each bird. An engagingly beautiful life-the-flap book in which children use pictures of eggs, feathers and silhouettes to determine which bird is being depicted. Intriguing factual information is included about each bird as its identity is revealed. NSTA 2013, POS

The long, long journey : the godwit's amazing migration by Markle, Sandra — Millbrook Press, 2013--598.3; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 3.8 Tells the story of the annual migration of the Bar-tailed godwit. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at www.titlewave.com  NSTA List 2014. eBook

Life in the boreal forest by Guiberson, Brenda Z  — Henry Holt, 2009. 578.73; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.2. Text and watercolor paintings describe the plants, animals, and climate of the boreal forest and discuss threats to the ecosystem.  NSTA 2010.

The boy who drew birds : a story of John James Audubon by Davies, Jacqueline — Houghton Mifflin, 2004--598; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.4 John James Audubon, living in Pennsylvania far from his home and father in France, continues his obsession with birds, and comes up with the idea of banding the legs of his pewee bird friends to see if they will return in the spring to the nests they abandoned in the fall. 

FREE Teaching Resources available for download at www.titlewave.com NSTA 2005.

What bluebirds do by Kirby, Pamela F  — Boyds Mills Press, 2009. 598.8; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.5. Full-color photographs and easy-to-follow text details the unique characteristics and behaviors of bluebirds, and also describes courtship, nesting, hatchlings, fledglings, diet, and other related topics. NSTA 2010 POS

Saving birds : heroes around the world by Salmansohn, Pete — Tilbury House, 2003. 333.95; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 4.6.  Profiles adults and children working in six habitats around the world to save wild birds, some of which are on the brink of extinction. NSTA 2004. OS

Even an ostrich needs a nest : where birds begin by Kelly, Irene — Holiday House, 2009. 598.156; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.7. Illustrations and simple text introduce young readers to the different ways that birds build their nests. NSTA 2010. OP

Eggs by Singer, Marilyn — Holiday House, 2008.  591.4; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.9. Explains the varieties, functions, and characteristics of the eggs of a multitude of creatures, including insects, birds, and reptiles. NSTA 2009. OP

Field trips : bug hunting, animal tracking, bird-watching, shore walking with Jim Arnosky. by Arnosky, Jim — Harper Collins Publishers, 2002. 508; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 4.9. Presents a guide, in simple text with illustrations, to identifying bugs, animals, and birds on a hike along the shore or in the woods, and includes descriptions of plants and animals, with over three hundred illustrations including 175 identifying silhouettes. NSTA 2003. POS

When the whales walked : and other incredible evolutionary journeys by Dixon, Dougal — words & pictures, 2018. 591.3; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 4.9. Step back in time and discover a world where whales once walked, crocodiles were warm-blooded and snakes had legs! Meet terrifying giant birds, and tiny elephants living on islands in this . . . creature guide like no other. Learn how whales once walked on four legs before taking to the oceans; how dinosaurs evolved into birds; and how the first cats were small and lived in trees. Featuring a . . . mix of annotated illustrations, illustrated scenes and family trees, evolution is explained here in a captivating and novel style that will make children look at animals in a whole new way.

Where in the wild? : camouflaged creatures concealed-- and revealed : ear-tickling poems by Schwartz, David M  — Tricycle Press, 2007. 590; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.9. Poems with clues prompt readers to guess the identities of ten camouflaged animals, revealed in gatefolds, and fact pages present information on each species, discussing their camouflage and life cycles. NSTA 2008. POS

Wilderness : Earth's amazing habitats by Cassany, Mia — Prestel, 2019 577; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 4.9. An illustrated look at sixteen natural landscapes that are home to countless species of animals and plants. The animals that live in these remote places, cleverly hidden in the trees, plants, and flowers, create a marvelous challenge for young readers to find and identify. Each spread contains more than twenty different species including birds, snakes, frogs, iguanas, leopards, tigers, gorillas, pandas, and wolves. NSTA 2020

Face to face with penguins (Face To Face With Animals) by Momatiuk, Yva  — National Geographic, 2009. 598.47; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.0. A photo-illustrated exploration of penguins that describes their nesting habits, diet, and family and social lives, and provides information about their threatened habitat. NSTA 2010. POS

Feathers : not just for flying by Stewart, Melissa — Charlesbridge, 2014--598.147; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 5.1 Young naturalists meet sixteen birds in this introduction to the many uses of feathers. NSTA 2015.

A place for birds by Stewart, Melissa — Peachtree, 2009--598; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 5.2

Explores some of the ways in which humans have affected bird populations across the nation and the steps that have been taken to protect them. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at www.titlewave.com NSTA 2010.

Feathered dinosaurs by Guiberson, Brenda Z — Henry Holt and Company, 2016. 567.9; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 5.5. A beautiful exploration of recently-discovered feathered dinosaurs--the ancient ancestors of birds today! NSTA 2017. 

Catching air : taking the leap with gliding animals by Collard, Sneed B — Tilbury House Publishers, 2017. 591.5; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.6.  Introduces children to the different types of animals that glide, including bats, birds, fish, and more. NSTA 2018. 

Bird guide of North America : the best birding book for kids from National Geographic's bird experts by Alderfer, Jonathan K  — National Geographic, 2013--598; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.7 A guide to identifying 100 bird species, covering where they live, what they eat, what sounds they make, their scientific names, and sizes. NSTA 2014.

Owls! (Strange And Wonderful) by Pringle, Laurence — Boyds Mills Press, an imprint of Highlights, 2016. 598.97; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.8. Explores the various kinds of owls, describing their physical characteristics, basic body parts, habitats, behavior, and reproduction. NSTA 2017. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at www.titlewave.com   NSTA 2017

For the birds : the life of Roger Tory Peterson by Thomas, Peggy — Calkins Creek, 2011--598; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.9 A biography of Roger Tory Peterson, artist, environmentalist, and creator of the Peterson Field Guides for identifying birds. NSTA 2012.

Roseate spoonbill : pretty in pink by Person, Stephen — Bearport Pub., 2013--598.3; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.1 Introduces young readers to the roseate spoonbill and looks at the efforts of biologist Jerry Lorenz and others to help protect this species. NSTA List 2014.

Belle's journey : an osprey takes flight by Bierregaard, Richard O — Charlesbridge, 2018. 598.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.3. Tracks the migration of an osprey named Belle who is born in Martha's Vineyard, learns to fly, and goes on an eight thousand mile journey to Brazil. NSTA 2019.

Into the deep : the life of naturalist and explorer William Beebe by Sheldon, David — Charlesbridge, 2009. 508; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 6.2. A picture-book biography that follows the life and adventures of American naturalist, explorer, and author William Beebe, the father of deep-sea exploration. NSTA 2010.

The animal book : a visual encyclopedia of life on Earth by Burnie, David — DK Publishing, 2013. 590; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.3. A pictorial guide to the animals on Earth, covering microscopic life, fungi, plants, invertebrates, insects, fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. NSTA 2014.

Belle's journey : an osprey takes flight by Bierregaard, Richard O — Charlesbridge, 2018. 598.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.3. Tracks the migration of an osprey named Belle who is born in Martha's Vineyard, learns to fly, and goes on an eight thousand mile journey to Brazil. NSTA 2019.

The great penguin rescue : saving the African penguins (Sandra Markle's Science Discoveries) by Markle, Sandra — Millbrook Press, 2018. 598.47; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.3. Alone! -- Penguins in trouble -- Timeline -- From bad to worse -- Raising the future -- Giving hope a home -- Rescued! -- Saving other penguins. "The African Penguin population is critically low, due to various factors including climate change. Scientists and volunteers with a South African organization are helping to rescue these endangered birds by rearing abandoned chicks. NSTA 2019.

Fire birds : valuing natural wildfires and burned forests by Collard, Sneed B— Bucking Horse Books, 2015. 634.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.4. Reveals the complex relationships between fire and thriving plant and animal communities.... focuses on the heavy use of burned forests by dozens of bird species. NSTA 2016.

Get the scoop on animal poop! : from lions to tapeworms, 251 cool facts about scat, frass, dung and more! by Cusick, Dawn — Imagine Pub., 2012. 590; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.4. Provides over 250 facts about animal feces and how it is used by various species. NSTA 2013. OP

Kakapo rescue : saving the world's strangest parrot by Montgomery, Sy — Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 2010--639.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.6 Provides an introduction to the kakapo parrot, a flightless bird found on Codfish Island off the coast of New Zealand, and looks at how the country's National Kakapo Recovery Team is working to save the kakapos, whose population numbers less than one hundred. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at www.titlewave.com . NSTA 2011.

If you are a Kaka, you eat doo doo : and other poop tales from nature (Tilbury House Nature Books) by Martel, Sara  — Tilbury House Publishers, 2016. 591.5; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.5. This illustrated picturebook explores the many ways in which birds, lizards, sloths, insects, wombats, and other animals use poop--their own or that of other animals. Brief, illustrated sidebars offer additional natural history details about the animals pictured, and the book's backmatter includes a glossary, ranges and Latin names of all the animals in the book, and an appendix exploring possible uses for human poop--including jet fuel. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at www.titlewave.com . NSAT 2017.

Far from shore : chronicles of an open ocean voyage by Webb, Sophie  — Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 2011. 591.77; Int Lvl: 5-8; Rd Lvl: 6.6. Sophie works as a field biologist and naturalist specializing in birds aboard a ship bound for deep ocean waters to study, paint, and record sightings of whales, leaping manta rays, and other marine life.  NSTA 2012.

Woodpeckers : drilling holes & bagging bugs by Collard, Sneed B — Bucing Horse Books, 2018.  598.7; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.6. If you see a bird standing on the side of a tree banging its beak against the trunk, chances are you're watching a woodpecker. Woodpeckers not only dazzle us with their good looks and personality, they exhibit some of the most interesting behaviors in the animal world. Explore this dynamic, exciting group of birds . . . Discover what scientists have learned about woodpeckers, why woodpeckers drill into trees, and the best way to serve ants at your next sleep-over. NSTA 2019.

Super nature encyclopedia : the 100 most incredible creatures on the planet by Harvey, Derek  — DK, 2012. 590; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.7.  Introduces one hundred animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates, and addresses anatomy, senses, and animal lifestyles. NSTA 2013.

I dreamed of flying like a bird : my adventures photographing wild animals from a helicopter by Haas, Robert B — National Geographic, 2010. 779; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.8. Robert Haas, a photographer with National Geographic, presents his photographs of animals from around the world, which he shot from the air. NSTA 2011.

Raptor! : a kid's guide to birds of prey by Laubach, Christyna M — Storey Kids, 2002. 598.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.8.  Describes the physical characteristics, behavior, and different species of raptors. NSTA 2003. POS

Snowy owl invasion! : tracking an unusual migration (Sandra Markle's Science Discoveries) by Markle, Sandra — Millbrook Press, 2018. 598.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.9. The invasion -- History in the making -- Snowies become snowbirds -- Good news, bad news -- Project SNOWstorm -- A star owl reporter -- The future is snowy. "A historically large irruption of snowy owls during the winter of 2013-2014 brought them across the eastern US, and farther south than usual. Scientists used this opportunity to attach GPS tracking devices to some snowy owls to increase understanding of their winter behavior and migration. NSTA 2019.

Predators (Insiders) by Seidensticker, John — Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2008. 591.5; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 7.3. Explores the characteristics of many different kinds of predators, from snakes to birds to big cats to carnivorous plants, discussing their natural weapons, killing strategies, and habitats, and profiles six major predators. NSTA 2009.

Dinosaur parents, dinosaur young : uncovering the mystery of dinosaur families by Zoehfeld, Kathleen Weidner  — Clarion Books, c2001 p2006. 567.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 7.5. Describes the parental relationship between adult dinosaurs and their young. NSTA 2002. OP

Secrets of sound : studying the calls and songs of whales, elephants, and birds (Scientists In The Field (HMH)) by Sayre, April Pulley — Houghton Mifflin, 2002. 599.159; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 7.5. Examines the work of several bioacousticians, scientists who study the sounds made by living creatures, discussing the results and importance of their research. NSTA 2003. OP

Feathered dinosaurs of China by Wenzel, Gregory C  — Charlesbridge, 2004. 567.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 7.6. Discusses the feathered dinosaurs of prehistoric China and their relationship to modern birds.

Young Charles Darwin and the voyage of the Beagle by Ashby, Ruth — Peachtree, 2009. 910.4; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 7.8. Chronicles the 1831 voyage of young Charles Darwin aboard the British Navy ship HMS Beagle on his scientific journey around the world. NSTA 2010.

Animals up close : zoom in on the world's most incredible creatures by Siwanowicz, Igor — DK Pub., 2009. 590; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 8.0.  Up-close images of a variety of animals depict the colors, textures, patterns, and structures found in nature. NSTA 2010. POS 

The early cretaceous : notes, drawings, and observations from prehistory by Alonso, Juan Carlos — Walter Foster Jr., 2015. 560; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 8.1. Introduces plants and animals of the Cretaceous Period in the style of a naturalist's notebook. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at www.titlewave.com . NSTA 2016.

Animals that make me say wow! by Cusick, Dawn — Imagine! Publishing, 2014. 591; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 8.2. Profiles more than 150 animals and discusses their unique survival adaptations, covering octopuses, foxes, crabs, shrimp, and snakes. NSTA 2015.

Birdology : 30 activities and observations for exploring the world of birds by Russo, Monica  — Chicago Review Press, 2015. 598.072; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 8.4. It's a bird -- Spots, stripes, dots, and streaks -- Special beaks and feet -- Amazing wings and eyes and notable nests -- Birds are everywhere -- Dinnertime! -- Travel time! (got geography?) -- Bird workers. "Provides thirty activities that encourage bird watching and observation in parks, zoos, farms, and backyards, and includes discussions on migration, nesting, food, territories, and wildlife preservation. NSTA 2016.

Animals that make me say ouch! by Cusick, Dawn — Imagine! Publishing, 2014. 591; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 8.5.  Profiles more than 150 animals and discusses their deadly survival adaptations, covering venoms, claws, fangs, talons, toxins and more. NSTA 2015.

Grades 3-6--Other Titles worth adding to the Collection

Look up! : bird-watching in your own backyard by Cate, Annette — Candlewick Press, 2013--598.072; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 3.8 An illustrated guide to bird watching. 

Backyard birds by Latimer, Jonathan P — Houghton Mifflin, 1999--598; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 4.5 Describes the physical characteristics, behavior, voices, and habitats of a variety of common birds, arranged by their color. Includes the Peterson System of identifying birds by their unique markings. 

United tweets of America by Talbott, Hudson  — Puffin Books, an imprint of Penguin Group (USA), 2015--973; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.2 A collection of detailed illustrations of state birds from all fifty United States.

Birds of a feather by Yolen, Jane  — Wordsong, 2011--811; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.3 Contains poems about birds, complemented by color photographs.

Grades 5-8--NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Books about Birds

Face to face with penguins (Face To Face With Animals) by Momatiuk, Yva  — National Geographic, 2009. 598.47; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.0. A photo-illustrated exploration of penguins that describes their nesting habits, diet, and family and social lives, and provides information about their threatened habitat. NSTA 2010. POS

Feathers : not just for flying by Stewart, Melissa — Charlesbridge, 2014--598.147; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 5.1 Young naturalists meet sixteen birds in this introduction to the many uses of feathers. NSTA List 2015.

A place for birds by Stewart, Melissa — Peachtree, 2015--598; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 5.2  Explores some of the ways in which humans have affected bird populations across the nation and the steps that have been taken to protect them. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at  www.titlewave.com NSTA 2016.

Feathered dinosaurs by Guiberson, Brenda Z — Henry Holt and Company, 2016. 567.9; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 5.5. A beautiful exploration of recently-discovered feathered dinosaurs--the ancient ancestors of birds today! NSTA 2017. 

Catching air : taking the leap with gliding animals by Collard, Sneed B — Tilbury House Publishers, 2017. 591.5; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.6.  Introduces children to the different types of animals that glide, including bats, birds, fish, and more. NSTA 2018. 

Bird guide of North America : the best birding book for kids from National Geographic's bird experts by Alderfer, Jonathan K  — National Geographic, 2013--598; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.7 A guide to identifying 100 bird species, covering where they live, what they eat, what sounds they make, their scientific names, and sizes. NSTA 2014.

Owls! (Strange And Wonderful) by Pringle, Laurence — Boyds Mills Press, an imprint of Highlights, 2016. 598.97; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.8. Explores the various kinds of owls, describing their physical characteristics, basic body parts, habitats, behavior, and reproduction. NSTA 2017. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at  www.titlewave.com NSRA 2017.

For the birds : the life of Roger Tory Peterson by Thomas, Peggy — Calkins Creek, 2011--598; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.9 A biography of Roger Tory Peterson, artist, environmentalist, and creator of the Peterson Field Guides for identifying birds. NSTA 2012.

Roseate spoonbill : pretty in pink by Person, Stephen — Bearport Pub., 2013--598.3; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.1 Introduces young readers to the roseate spoonbill and looks at the efforts of biologist Jerry Lorenz and others to help protect this species. NSTA List 2014.

Into the deep : the life of naturalist and explorer William Beebe by Sheldon, David — Charlesbridge, 2009. 508; Int Lvl: K-3; Rd Lvl: 6.2. A picture-book biography that follows the life and adventures of American naturalist, explorer, and author William Beebe, the father of deep-sea exploration. NSTA 2010.

The animal book : a visual encyclopedia of life on Earth by Burnie, David — DK Publishing, 2013. 590; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.3. A pictorial guide to the animals on Earth, covering microscopic life, fungi, plants, invertebrates, insects, fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. NSTA 2014.

Belle's journey : an osprey takes flight by Bierregaard, Richard O — Charlesbridge, 2018. 598.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.3. Tracks the migration of an osprey named Belle who is born in Martha's Vineyard, learns to fly, and goes on an eight thousand mile journey to Brazil. NSTA 2019.

The great penguin rescue : saving the African penguins (Sandra Markle's Science Discoveries) by Markle, Sandra — Millbrook Press, 2018. 598.47; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.3. Alone! -- Penguins in trouble -- Timeline -- From bad to worse -- Raising the future -- Giving hope a home -- Rescued! -- Saving other penguins. "The African Penguin population is critically low, due to various factors including climate change. Scientists and volunteers with a South African organization are helping to rescue these endangered birds by rearing abandoned chicks. NSTA 2019.

Fire birds : valuing natural wildfires and burned forests by Collard, Sneed B— Bucking Horse Books, 2015. 634.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.4. Reveals the complex relationships between fire and thriving plant and animal communities.... focuses on the heavy use of burned forests by dozens of bird species. NSTA 2016.

Get the scoop on animal poop! : from lions to tapeworms, 251 cool facts about scat, frass, dung and more! by Cusick, Dawn — Imagine Pub., 2012. 590; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.4. Provides over 250 facts about animal feces and how it is used by various species. NSTA 2013. OP

 Kakapo rescue : saving the world's strangest parrot by Montgomery, Sy — Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 2010--639.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.6 Provides an introduction to the kakapo parrot, a flightless bird found on Codfish Island off the coast of New Zealand, and looks at how the country's National Kakapo Recovery Team is working to save the kakapos, whose population numbers less than one hundred. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at  www.titlewave.com  NSTA 2011.

If you are a Kaka, you eat doo doo : and other poop tales from nature (Tilbury House Nature Books) by Martel, Sara  — Tilbury House Publishers, 2016. 591.5; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.5. This illustrated picturebook explores the many ways in which birds, lizards, sloths, insects, wombats, and other animals use poop--their own or that of other animals. Brief, illustrated sidebars offer additional natural history details about the animals pictured, and the book's backmatter includes a glossary, ranges and Latin names of all the animals in the book, and an appendix exploring possible uses for human poop--including jet fuel. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at  www.titlewave.com. NSTA 2017.

Far from shore : chronicles of an open ocean voyage by Webb, Sophie  — Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 2011. 591.77; Int Lvl: 5-8; Rd Lvl: 6.6. Sophie works as a field biologist and naturalist specializing in birds aboard a ship bound for deep ocean waters to study, paint, and record sightings of whales, leaping manta rays, and other marine life.  NSTA 2012.

Woodpeckers : drilling holes & bagging bugs by Collard, Sneed B — Bucing Horse Books, 2018.  598.7; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.6. If you see a bird standing on the side of a tree banging its beak against the trunk, chances are you're watching a woodpecker. Woodpeckers not only dazzle us with their good looks and personality, they exhibit some of the most interesting behaviors in the animal world. Explore this dynamic, exciting group of birds . . . Discover what scientists have learned about woodpeckers, why woodpeckers drill into trees, and the best way to serve ants at your next sleep-over. NSTA 2019.

Animal tracks & signs by Johnson, Jinny  — National Geographic, 2008. 591; Int Lvl: 5-8; Rd Lvl: 6.7.  Presents an illustrated guide to how to interpret tracks and sign from over four hundred animals, covering droppings and pellets, dens, nests, and other indications of behavior, with diagrams and information on different animals' range, habitat, and food. NSTA 2009. 

Animals on the trail with Lewis and Clark by Patent, Dorothy Hinshaw — Clarion Books, 2002. 917.804; Int Lvl: 5-8; Rd Lvl: 6.7.  Retraces the Lewis and Clark journey and blends their observations of previously unknown animals with modern information about those same animals. NSTA 2003. 

Super nature encyclopedia : the 100 most incredible creatures on the planet by Harvey, Derek  — DK, 2012. 590; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.7.  Introduces one hundred animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates, and addresses anatomy, senses, and animal lifestyles. NSTA 2013.

I dreamed of flying like a bird : my adventures photographing wild animals from a helicopter by Haas, Robert B — National Geographic, 2010. 779; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.8. Robert Haas, a photographer with National Geographic, presents his photographs of animals from around the world, which he shot from the air. NSTA 2011.

Raptor! : a kid's guide to birds of prey by Laubach, Christyna M — Storey Kids, 2002. 598.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.8.  Describes the physical characteristics, behavior, and different species of raptors. NSTA 2003. POS

Snowy owl invasion! : tracking an unusual migration (Sandra Markle's Science Discoveries) by Markle, Sandra — Millbrook Press, 2018. 598.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 6.9. The invasion -- History in the making -- Snowies become snowbirds -- Good news, bad news -- Project SNOWstorm -- A star owl reporter -- The future is snowy. "A historically large irruption of snowy owls during the winter of 2013-2014 brought them across the eastern US, and farther south than usual. Scientists used this opportunity to attach GPS tracking devices to some snowy owls to increase understanding of their winter behavior and migration. NSTA 2019.

How dinosaurs took flight : the fossils, the science, what we think we know, and the mysteries yet unsolved by Sloan, Christopher  — National Geographic, 2005. 567.9; Int Lvl: 5-8; Rd Lvl: 7.3. Presents full-color illustrated drawings that describes a number of prehistoric dinosaurs that scientists believe had feathers, and attempts to determine exactly when and how these creatures took flight. NSTA 2006.

Predators (Insiders) by Seidensticker, John — Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2008. 591.5; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 7.3. Explores the characteristics of many different kinds of predators, from snakes to birds to big cats to carnivorous plants, discussing their natural weapons, killing strategies, and habitats, and profiles six major predators. NSTA 2009.

The call of the osprey (Scientists In The Field (HMH)) by Patent, Dorothy Hinshaw — Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2015.598.9; Int Lvl: 5-8; Rd Lvl: 7.5. Explores mercury pollution found in the rivers and streams of Western Montana that might cause harm to humans--and the extinction of the entire osprey species. NSTA 2016.

Dinosaur parents, dinosaur young : uncovering the mystery of dinosaur families by Zoehfeld, Kathleen Weidner  — Clarion Books, c2001 p2006. 567.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 7.5. Describes the parental relationship between adult dinosaurs and their young. NSTA 2002. OP

Secrets of sound : studying the calls and songs of whales, elephants, and birds (Scientists In The Field (HMH)) by Sayre, April Pulley — Houghton Mifflin, 2002. 599.159; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 7.5. Examines the work of several bioacousticians, scientists who study the sounds made by living creatures, discussing the results and importance of their research. NSTA 2003. OP

Feathered dinosaurs of China by Wenzel, Gregory C  — Charlesbridge, 2004. 567.9; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 7.6. Discusses the feathered dinosaurs of prehistoric China and their relationship to modern birds.

Looking for seabirds : journal from an Alaskan voyage by Webb, Sophie — Houghton Mifflin Co., 2004--598.177; Int Lvl: 5-8; Rd Lvl: 7.8 A journal of the author's observations and adventures while working on a research vessel counting seabirds through Alaska's Aleutian Island chain. NSTA LIST 2005. OP

Young Charles Darwin and the voyage of the Beagle by Ashby, Ruth — Peachtree, 2009. 910.4; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 7.8. Chronicles the 1831 voyage of young Charles Darwin aboard the British Navy ship HMS Beagle on his scientific journey around the world. NSTA 2010.

Animals up close : zoom in on the world's most incredible creatures by Siwanowicz, Igor — DK Pub., 2009. 590; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 8.0.  Up-close images of a variety of animals depict the colors, textures, patterns, and structures found in nature. NSTA 2010. POS 

The early cretaceous : notes, drawings, and observations from prehistory by Alonso, Juan Carlos — Walter Foster Jr., 2015. 560; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 8.1. Introduces plants and animals of the Cretaceous Period in the style of a naturalist's notebook. FREE Teaching Resources available for download at www.titlewave.com NSTA 2016.

Animals that make me say wow! by Cusick, Dawn — Imagine! Publishing, 2014. 591; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 8.2. Profiles more than 150 animals and discusses their unique survival adaptations, covering octopuses, foxes, crabs, shrimp, and snakes. NSTA 2015.

Birdology : 30 activities and observations for exploring the world of birds by Russo, Monica  — Chicago Review Press, 2015. 598.072; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 8.4. It's a bird -- Spots, stripes, dots, and streaks -- Special beaks and feet -- Amazing wings and eyes and notable nests -- Birds are everywhere -- Dinnertime! -- Travel time! (got geography?) -- Bird workers. "Provides thirty activities that encourage bird watching and observation in parks, zoos, farms, and backyards, and includes discussions on migration, nesting, food, territories, and wildlife preservation. NSTA 2016.

Animals that make me say ouch! by Cusick, Dawn — Imagine! Publishing, 2014. 591; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 8.5.  Profiles more than 150 animals and discusses their deadly survival adaptations, covering venoms, claws, fangs, talons, toxins and more. NSTA 2015.

Dinosaur eggs discovered! : unscrambling the clues (Discovery!)by Dingus, Lowell — Twenty-First Century Books, 2008. 567.90982; Int Lvl: 5-8; Rd Lvl: 8.9. An unexpected discovery -- When were the eggs laid? -- Who laid the eggs? -- What can be learned from the eggs? -- Were the eggs laid in nests? -- How often did nesting dinosaurs use the site? -- What catastrophe killed the embryos? -- What other dinosaurs lived at Auca Mahuevo? -- Is Auca Mahuevo the real Jurassic Park? -- Auca Mahuevo's unique view of the past. Provides interesting facts and information on dinosaur eggs discovered in Patagonia by paleontologist Dr. Lowell Dingus.

Grades 5-8--Other Bird Titles worth adding to the Collection

United tweets of America by Talbott, Hudson  — Puffin Books, an imprint of Penguin Group (USA), 2015--973; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.2 A collection of detailed illustrations of state birds from all fifty United States.

Birds of a feather by Yolen, Jane  — Wordsong, 2011--811; Int Lvl: 3-6; Rd Lvl: 5.3 Contains poems about birds, complemented by color photographs.