The order of species listed in this guide is based on the latest version of the Check-List of North American Birds, published by the American Ornithologist’s Union. The arrangement of some groups, especially within the nonpasserines, may be slightly different than that of older field guides, but, in an effort to remain current, I have used the most recent arrangement here.
For each entry I have included the common name as well as the scientific name. Since common names tend to vary regionally, or there may be more than one common name for each species, the universally accepted scientific name of genus and species (such as Mycteria americana, for the Wood Stork) is more reliable to be certain of identification. Also, one can often learn interesting facts about a bird by the English translation of its Latin name.
Birds are grouped into families based on similar traits and genetics. It can often be helpful when trying to identify an unfamiliar bird to first place it into a family, which will reduce your search to a smaller group. For example, if you see a long-legged, long-billed bird lurking slowly in the shallows, you can begin your search in the family group of Ardeidae, or Herons and Egrets.
The size given for each bird is the average length, from the tip of the bill to the end of the tail if the bird was laid out flat. Sometimes females and males vary in size, and this is mentioned in the text. Size can be misleading if you are looking at a small bird that happens to have a very long tail or bill. More effective is the use of relative size, or judging the size difference between two or more species.
The season given in the accounts is when most individuals occur in Florida. Some species are year-round residents that breed here. Others may spend only summers or winters here, and some may be transient, only stopping during the spring or fall during migration. Even if only part of the year is indicated for a species, be aware that there may be individuals that arrive earlier or remain for longer than that time frame. Plumage also changes with the season for many birds, and this is indicated in the text and illustrations.
A bird’s habitat is one of the first clues to its identification. Note the environment where you see a bird and compare it with the description listed. For example, Cattle Egrets and Snowy Egrets are similar, but Cattle Egrets are found in drier fields and pastures while Snowy Egrets prefer swamps and open water.
I have illustrated the adult bird in the plumage most likely to be encountered during the season(s) it is in Florida. If it is likely that you will find more than one plumage during this time, I have illustrated the alternate plumage as well. For birds that are sexually dimorphic (females and males look different), I have included illustrations of both sexes. Other plumages such as juveniles and alternate morphs are described in the text.