nature study guides

Exciting News: Two New Books Join the Nature Study Guides Finder Series

Megan Wells October 15, 2024 0 AdventureKEEN, Backpacking, Be Well. Be Outdoors., Birds, Family Activities, Field Guide, for families, for home lessons, foraging, Hiking, Mushrooms, Nature, Outdoor Activities, Rocky Mountains, Travel News & Updates, Wildlife Bird Nest Finder, dichotomous key, Dorcas S. Miller, finder series, holiday gifts, holidays, Jacob Kalichman, Mushroom Finder, nature, nature study guides, Roo Vandegrift, stocking stuffers

The Nature Study Guides Finder series is a timeless favorite in the outdoors world. These guides have been loved by nature fans for ages, offering valuable insights and tips for identifying various plants and animals. With a recent update to the look, the series now carries a fresh, modern design and introduces two new titles—Mushroom Finder and Bird Nest Finder. There are also five titles in the series that have recently received updates with new editions.

New Titles

Picture of the Mushroom Finder book next to a mushroom near a tree in the grass

New to the series is Mushroom Finder, written by Jacob Kalichman, an expert field mycologist known for his extensive work on North American fungi. This pocket-size guide is perfect for foragers and outdoors enthusiasts looking to identify mushrooms in their natural habitats. Jacob’s expertise ensures readers get accurate and reliable information, enhancing their foraging adventures. The book includes stunning illustrations from Roo Vandegrift, who currently works as the Plant Pathologist at the USDA Plant Inspection Station. Roo’s detailed art captures each mushroom’s unique traits, making identification easier and more fun.

Bird Nest Finder is another exciting addition, written and illustrated by Dorcas S. Miller, a seasoned author within the Finder series. Dorcas has previously written Track Finder, Scat Finder, Winter Weed Finder, Berry Finder, and Constellation Finder, which have sold over half a million copies. Bird Nest Finder focuses on aboveground nests in Eastern North America, providing essential information for bird-watchers and nature lovers. The author’s deep knowledge and detailed illustrations make this guide a valuable resource for anyone interested in the nesting behaviors of birds.

The Bird Nest Finder book next to a bird nest in the grass

Revived Classics

Along with the new books, five previously out-of-print books are back on the shelves. These revived classics include:

Bird Finder (originally published in 1990) by Roger J. Lederer—an essential guide for bird-watchers, with detailed descriptions and illustrations of various bird species
Pacific Coast Bird Finder (1977) by Roger J. Lederer—identifies common and noteworthy birds of California, Oregon, and Washington
Desert Tree Finder (1974) by May Theilgaard Watts—a must-have for desert explorers, providing detailed information on identifying trees and tree-like cacti of the desert southwest
Pacific Coast Mammal Finder (1987) by Ron Russo—identifies mammals by sight, as well as by their animal tracks, burrows, nests, scat, scratch or chew marks, and skulls/jaws; great for wildlife enthusiasts
Pacific Coast Fish Finder (1990) by Ron Russo—identifies marine fish of the Pacific Coast; ideal for anglers and nature lovers

Not only did this classic series get a new, updated look, but it also expanded its collection, solidifying its status as a go-to resource for outdoors enthusiasts, nature lovers, and foragers. Whether readers are experienced naturalists or budding explorers, the Nature Study Guides Finder series has something for everyone. Discover the beauty and intricacies of the natural world with these expertly crafted guides.

Great for the Holidays

Picture of the Finders series spread out on a table with green garland around them

The Nature Study Guides Finder series is the perfect gift for the holiday season. These pocket-size guides are packed with expert content in simple form, making them ideal for anyone who loves the great outdoors or is just beginning to develop an interest in nature. They’re designed to be portable, so adventurers can easily take them on outings and identify the wonders they come across. These books make thoughtful gifts that spark curiosity and deepen appreciation for the natural world, making them perfect as stocking stuffers or special gifts under the tree.

The Finders Series Best Features and Secrets of Success

Megan Wells September 6, 2024 1 AdventureKEEN, Be Well. Be Outdoors., birding, Flowers, for families, foraging, Hiking, Nature, Outdoor Activities, Outdoor Pursuits, Outdoor Skills, Rocky Mountains, science, Travel News & Updates, Upcoming dichotomous key, hiking, mammals, nature, nature study guide finders, nature study guides, new releases, plants, sustainability, trees

The Nature Study Guides Finders series has helped nature enthusiasts identify plants, trees, birds, mammals, and other organisms for more than five decades.

These gems are getting some upgrades this October, including updates to range maps, scientific names and families, icons, and design. To learn more, read the previous blog Timeless Treasures: The Everlasting Appeal of Nature Study Guides Finders Books. The Finders are known for three distinct features: size, dichotomous keys, and longevity—partially due to their affordable price point. These components contribute to the great success of this series over the years.

SIZE MATTERS

When out on the trails, the amount, weight, and size of items brought along matters significantly to any hiker or outdoors enthusiast. Carrying heavy or bulky items can quickly become cumbersome and detract from the enjoyment of the journey. This is why one of the greatest characteristics of the titles in the Finders series is their compact, lightweight design. These booklets measure only 4×6 inches. Many users report that they can easily slip them into their jacket or pants pockets before exploring the trails. Additionally, they fit perfectly into the outer pockets of backpacks. The glossy covers also contribute to the ease of quick retrieval, making them a practical, convenient choice for anyone looking to travel light while staying prepared.

Nature Study Guides Finders books on floor next to hiking gear.

THE KEYS ARE KEY

Each book is organized using a dichotomous key, consisting of a series of statements or questions, each offering two distinct choices. These choices lead the user down different paths, depending on the characteristics of the organism being identified. By systematically narrowing down these choices, readers can eventually arrive at the correct identification of the organism. Educators and naturalists appreciate the guides for their organization, which encourages examining the structure and families of plants. The Finders for birds and mammals are organized by taxonomy (classification via characteristics).

Inside page from Winter Tree Finder by May T. Watts

Inside page from Winter Tree Finder by May Theilgaard Watts and Tom Watts

THEY’RE REASONABLY PRICED

The first book in the Finders series, Tree Finder, was published in 1939 by May Theilgaard Watts, followed by her Flower Finder in 1955. Many consumers eventually replace their original copies because of wear and tear from use (some have enjoyed them for over 40 years!). The 1939 edition of Tree Finder was initially priced at a modest 25 cents, and for many years, it was priced at just $5.95. As the series continues to thrive, new editions are set to be released at the accessible price of $7.95. This practical price point has been integral to the series’ ongoing success, ensuring that it remains a beloved resource for both seasoned naturalists and budding nature lovers alike—in 2024 and beyond.

old copy of Tree Finder from 1939 for 25 cents.

NEW EDITIONS RELEASING IN 2024/25

The new editions for 12 of the Finders will be available on October 8th wherever books are sold. These editions are eagerly anticipated, as they feature a cohesive new look that adds a nostalgic touch to their appearance. With their attractive design, it will be tempting for outdoors enthusiasts to purchase all of these books. Additionally, there will be bundles available that are grouped by region or subject matter, providing buyers with convenient options to expand their collections. The rest of the Finders will be released in 2025, and they will also receive similar visually appealing updates to ensure continuity in the series. Keep an eye out for these exciting releases!

A NOD TO SUSTAINABILITY

Beyond the practical benefits, the Nature Study Guides Finders series also aligns with the ethos of sustainability—a core value for many nature enthusiasts and environmentalists. The compact size and durable quality of the guides ensure minimal waste, and their longevity means fewer replacements over time. Investing in these guides is not just a step toward becoming a better naturalist, but it’s also a step towards a greener planet.

Timeless Treasures: The Everlasting Appeal of Nature Study Guides Finders Books

Megan Wells June 14, 2024 1 Backpacking, Be Well. Be Outdoors., birding, Birds, Hiking, mushrooming, Mushrooms, Nature, Outdoor Pursuits, Outdoor Skills, science, Travel News & Updates, Wildlife dichotomous key, education, finder series, hiking, nature, nature series, nature study guide finders, nature study guides, outdoors, reviews

Discover why these guidebooks have become staples that continue to thrive in their popularity with nature lovers.

Environmental Education: The History of Nature Study Guides

May Theilgaard Watts, the daughter of a landscape gardener, attended the University of Chicago for botany and ecology (graduating in 1918) and later attended the Art Institute of Chicago. May became involved with a group that worked on preserving the natural landscape in the Midwest. In the 1940s, she became a full-time naturalist at the Morton Arboretum, where she developed an education program that included classes in gardening, nature literature, art, botany, ecology, creative writing, and geology.

In this role, she created the first Nature Study Guides for her students, who were, at first, teachers. The classes were such a big success that they were requested by Girl Scout leaders, homemakers, and families. The groups continued to grow; soon, doctors, dentists, botany professors, nursery workers, farmers, nurses, principals, and Boy Scouts were in attendance.

Today, these guides also have a wide range of audiences, including professionals, academics, hobbyists, and children. The guides have remained invaluable resources for decades.

Staying Relevant: How These Guides Adapt to Changing Environments

Nature Study Guides have been a favorite resource for more than 60 years and continue to be revised and updated. The most recent changes include updates to the range maps. The hardiness zones have also been adjusted due to climate change, and these details offer more accuracy. The scientific names and families of particular species have also been corrected, and new ones have been added.

The most noticeable recent change is the look; however, they remain recognizable as the classic guides that people have come to trust. While the books cover different regions, they are all part of the series, most using dichotomous keys. Along with the outside look, the icons inside have been tweaked for easier recognition.

backpack showing the size of the Mushroom Finder and a picture of the new cover of the Winter Tree Finder.

Testimonials: Lasting Stories of Connections with Nature

“This Nature Study Series is hard to beat for the person wishing to know plants and understand the differences in physical characteristics. All this comes at a very reasonable cost.”

“I like the whole series of these books. They use deduction to figure out what you’re looking at— be it flower, tree, or animal.”

“I love these mini reference books! They take up very little space on the shelf and are lightweight enough to throw in a day pack, which is much easier than trying to find data or see a screen on a smartphone while you’re out hiking or picnicking.”

Guidebook Gems: Highlighting the Most Popular Editions

Tree Finder by May Theilgaard Watts is the most popular book in the series. People pass it down from generation to generation or purchase it for their kids and grandkids. The range of users is diverse. Below are a few consumer reviews to highlight the trusted guide.

“Even the pros use this book. I’m a certified arborist with 19 years in the green industry. This was one of the books I used to lock down my tree ID skills. I have also used this book to teach future arborists, as well as Boy Scouts and Scout leaders.”

“I had one of these 50 years ago when I studied in elementary school and have always liked it. It makes identifying trees fun!”

“As a certified forester, this is exactly the book we used at West Virginia University for ‘keying’ trees. It’s a great beginner’s book for tree identification. I’d highly recommend it.”

“I first read this in high school for my leaf collection project. I have since purchased this book for my children. I want them to be able to identify trees they ask about on our hikes. It is a wonderful book for all ages.”

Additional Nature Education: New Books by Expert Authors

While the Nature Study Guide series has many classics, two new books are being added this October. Bird Nest Finder, by Dorcas Miller, helps readers identify more than 70 species of birds and their nests. Dorcas is a well-known expert and author of five other guides in the series. Similar to other books in the group, it uses a dichotomous key to help identify aboveground nests by answering questions about their type, size, material, and location.

Another new book in the series is Mushroom Finder. This guidebook provides a dichotomous key to identify fungi by answering questions about the location; appearance; or shape, such as the cap, spores, and stem. The step-by-step instructions can help readers identify more than 300 types of mushrooms that are at least 5mm tall or wide, have tangible thickness, and are fresh. The author is Jacob Kalichman, an expert in his field and a USDA plant pathologist.

Be sure to check out more information on this series at http://naturestudy.com/