Welcome to Subirdia: Sharing Our Neighborhoods with Wrens, Robins, Woodpeckers, and Other Wildlife

by John M. Marzluff
Welcome to Subirdia: Sharing Our Neighborhoods with Wrens, Robins, Woodpeckers, and Other Wildlife cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Technical
  • ID: 4824
  • Added: 2025-10-22
  • Updated: 2025-10-22
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
bookshop.org · Unknown · 2025-10-22
insightful 4.50

Welcome to Subirdia explores the fascinating coexistence of birds and humans in urban and suburban environments. The book highlights the adaptability of various bird species and the importance of creating bird-friendly spaces in our neighborhoods.

Welcome to Subirdia delves into the intricate relationships between birds and humans, showcasing how urban and suburban areas have become thriving habitats for many bird species. The author emphasizes the resilience and adaptability of birds, such as wrens, robins, and woodpeckers, as they navigate human-dominated landscapes. They argue that by understanding and appreciating these interactions, we can foster a more harmonious coexistence. The book also provides practical tips on how to create bird-friendly environments, from planting native vegetation to providing suitable nesting sites. This insightful and engaging read encourages readers to see their neighborhoods as dynamic ecosystems where wildlife and humans can thrive together.

Quick quotes

    Birds are not just visitors in our neighborhoods; they are integral parts of the ecosystem.

    By making small changes, we can create a welcoming environment for a diverse range of bird species.

    Understanding the behaviors and needs of birds can help us build a more sustainable and harmonious future.

libraryjournal.com · Unknown · 2025-10-22
inspiring 4.50

The book highlights the surprising abundance of bird species in suburban areas, known as Subirdia, where they find ample food and shelter. It also discusses the impact of urbanization on bird diversity and offers practical tips for promoting wildlife diversity in neighborhoods.

The reviewer was drawn to 'Welcome to Subirdia' after noticing an increasing variety of bird species in their neighborhood, which they attributed to adding bird-friendly plants. The book reveals that many birds thrive in suburban environments due to the availability of food, shelter, and nesting sites. However, urbanization can lead to a loss of diversity as similar species dominate. The author identifies five common birds found in many metropolitan areas and discusses their impact on native species. The latter part of the book provides actionable advice for individuals and communities to enhance bird and wildlife diversity, inspiring the reviewer to make changes in their own yard.

Quick quotes

    As soon as I saw a review of Welcome to Subirdia: Sharing Our Neighborhoods with Wrens, Robins, Woodpeckers, and Other Wildlife by John M. Marzluff in the Chicago Tribune in November, I knew I wanted to read it.

    According to the author, many birds actually do quite well in Subirdia, as there is a wealth of food and shelter to be found.

    I am thinking of replacing even more of the lawn with tall grasses, thistles, and shrubs.

currentconservation.org · Unknown · 2015-03-11
excellent 4.50

The book documents how wildlife, particularly birds, has adapted to urban and suburban areas, highlighting surprising behaviors and adaptations. It is well-researched and accessible, making it highly recommended for those interested in wildlife, city planning, and urban ecology.

This book is a fascinating exploration of how wildlife, especially birds, has adapted to urban and suburban environments. The author, John M. Marzluff, presents well-researched and engaging discussions on various topics such as wildlife in golf courses, changes in bird song due to traffic noise, the impact of artificial light, and the benefits of dead trees. The book is not just academically rigorous but also eminently readable, making it accessible to a wide audience. The focus is primarily on the Pacific Northwest, but the insights are applicable worldwide as urban areas continue to expand. The author's special interest in the crow family adds a unique perspective to the narrative. Overall, the book is highly recommended for anyone interested in wildlife, city planning, and urban ecology.

Quick quotes

    This excellent book documents engagingly how wildlife has adapted to urban and suburban areas, often in surprising ways.

    The cute title should not obscure the scholarship and research that is so well presented here.

    Most highly recommended for all interested in wildlife, city planning, and urban ecology.

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