A Field Guide to Australian Birds (Slater)

A Field Guide to Australian Birds (Slater) refers to a series of popular and influential field guides for identifying birds in Australia, primarily authored by Peter Slater, and subsequently updated or co-authored by others like Pat Slater and Raoul Slater. These guides are recognized for their portable size, comprehensive coverage, and use of illustrations, often watercolor paintings, to depict different species.

Key characteristics and aspects of the Slater guides include:

• Scope: The guides aim to cover all, or a substantial portion of, bird species found in Australia, including endemic species, migratory birds, and introduced species.
• Illustrations: The primary identification method relies on visual comparison using illustrations. These illustrations typically depict the bird in various plumages (male, female, juvenile, breeding/non-breeding) and in different poses to aid in identification.
• Descriptions: Each species entry includes concise descriptions of physical characteristics, habitat, behavior, voice (bird song and calls), and distribution within Australia.
• Distribution Maps: Distribution maps usually accompany each species account, providing a visual representation of where the bird is typically found within Australia. These maps can be crucial for narrowing down identification possibilities.
• Portability: The guides are designed to be easily carried in the field, making them a practical tool for birdwatchers and ornithologists.
• Successive Editions: Over time, newer editions have been released to incorporate updated taxonomy, distribution information, and new species discoveries. The authorships and titles may vary slightly between editions, reflecting the collaborative nature of the project and the evolving understanding of Australian ornithology.
• Influence: The Slater guides have played a significant role in popularizing birdwatching in Australia and have contributed to a greater understanding and appreciation of Australian birds. They remain a widely used resource, although newer field guides with photographic plates have also gained popularity.

It is important to note that relying on older editions may lead to discrepancies due to taxonomic revisions and changes in species distribution. The latest available edition should always be consulted for the most accurate information.