Another solod Timber Press release on local birding, in this case the eastern portions of the Pacific Northwest. Author Tamara Enz has written a solid regional handbook of birds in a small, less well-known location. Pictures are descriptive and clear, which isn't always the case with a photo-based guide; Enz does a nice job showing alternate plumages and male/female/juvenal distinctions. Local color - where to look for species - is nicely additive, as it is often quite specific, especiallly for local specialties like Lewis' and White Headed woodpeckers. The general description of different environments.is strong.

I would have liked to see a few more birds, rather than strictly verbal descriptions of similar species. Cackling Goose is an example of a bird that could have benefited from its own pictures and description to highlight the subtle differences to Canada Goose. I also find it hard to believe that so few owl species inhabit the region!

Some readers may find the commentary on bird name changes and the moral underpinning for the changes to be unnecessary. I suppose the same could be said for remarks on conservation. Neither were issues for me but buyer beware.

All told, this is a good book for local birders and visitors to Eastern Oregon and Washington.