Seeing birds in their natural environment, flying high in the sky, is wonderful, but identifying them from the ground can be a challenge. On the Wing solves the problem, pointing out exactly what to look out for with graphic illustrations of their different flight patterns and tips on silhouette, markings, flying style, mid-flight calls…. This ‘human’s eye’ view of 90 birds in the sky will explain the mechanics of bird flight and which birds hover, swoop or soar, dive or glide. Comparative species are included, to avoid confusion between similar birds.

Marianne Taylor is the author of Hummingbirds, RSPB British Birds of Prey and Beautiful Owls.

Rachel Warren Chad is a regular birdwatcher whose books include Birds: Myth, Lore & Legend.