Birds Birds Birds: Why Birdwatchers Watch

"Perhaps only politicians and talk show hosts vocalize more than birds," says this eye-popping overview of avian life, and many nature enthusiasts would quickly point out which of the three is actually the most interesting to listen to (hint: not Bill, not Oprah). Gorgeously filmed by the Maslowski family (father and two sons), whose clients include The Walt Disney Company, this beautiful film highlights over a hundred bird species, while offering voice-over commentary on subjects ranging from feeder boxes to birdwatching marathons. Viewers will see, in addition to all of the most common bird species, the Rose-Breasted Grosbeak, the Royal Tern, the Turkey Vulture, and the Dickcissel (I had a friend in high school named Walt Cissel; apparently no relation). Besides offering a wealth of interesting tidbits about birds and some great cinematography, Birds Birds Birds also boasts a clever and playful soundtrack keyed to the onscreen antics, and an interactive feature: birds are shown for a few seconds before the species name is given, thereby allowing viewers to test their knowledge. a great kickstarter to get people interested in birdwatching. Highly recommended. (R. Pitman)