W estern Field Ornithologists 
announces the first volume 
of its new monograph series, 
Studies of Western Birds , with 
the publication of California 
Bird Species of Special Con- 
cern: A ranked assessment of 
species, subspecies, and distinct 
populations of birds of imme- 
diate conservation concern in 
California, edited by W. David 
Shuford and Thomas Garda- 
li. This volume, co-published with 
California Department of Fish 
and Game and prepared with a 
host of collaborators, will be of 
value to every field ornithologist, 
conservationist, wildlife biologist, 
biological consulting company, 
and planner in California. 
This 450-page softcover volume is a must-have reference on the status 
of California’s declining and vulnerable bird species. An overview section 
describes the process of identifying species at risk and ranking their conser- 
vation priority, distinguishes the habitats and geographic areas of the state 
with high numbers of birds at risk, and pinpoints the most pressing threats 
they face. The heart of the book is the section with species accounts for 63 
species, written by 48 experts, which include maps of current and historic 
ranges and describe birds’ status, population trends, ecological requirements, 
threats, and management, research, and monitoring needs. Illustrations of 
birds in natural settings include a stunning color cover by Keith Hansen 
and imaginative black-and-white vignettes by Andy Birch and Tim Manolis 
interspersed throughout the text. 
Major support for the production and printing of this book has been 
generously provided by California Department of Fish and Game, Audubon 
California, BonTerra Consulting, EDAW, H. T. Harvey & Associates, Jones 
& Stokes, LSA Associates, The Nature Conservancy, PRBO Conservation 
Science, SWCA Environmental Consultants, and Western Field Ornitholo- 
gists. Funding and donations from these and other sources have substantially 
lowered the cost of the book. 
Order your copy now for $12.00 from Allen Press: 
online at http://bookstore.allenmm.com or by phone at 800-627-0326. 
California Bird Species 
of Special Concern 
A Ranked Assessment of Species, Subspecies, and Distinct Populations 
of Birds of Immediate Conservation Concern in California 
W. DAVID SHUFORD AND THOMAS GARDALI, EDITORS 
Studies of Western Birds No. 1 
Published Jointly by Western Field Ornithologists and 
California Department of Fish and Game 
251 
