Days With Birds

Days With Birds by V. G. L. van Someren, published in 1956 by the Chicago Natural History Museum (now the Field Museum), is an ornithological classic for both naturalists and general readers. Drawing on decades of field research in East Africa, van Someren recounts his experiences observing birds — their songs, flight patterns, breeding habits and interactions with their habitats. His prose combines scientific accuracy with a storyteller’s eye, bringing the avian world to life in vivid, accessible detail.

The book is organized thematically rather than strictly taxonomically: van Someren writes about birds in forest, savannah and wetland, focusing on behaviors such as courtship, migration, nesting and feeding. Each chapter is peppered with anecdotes — from rare sightings and dramatic aerial displays to the quieter beauty of everyday bird life — underscoring his deep affection and respect for the natural world. His observations are enriched by his long familiarity with African landscapes and the species that inhabit them.

Days With Birds appeals to birdwatchers, natural-history enthusiasts, researchers, and anyone who appreciates nature writing. Its mid-century edition is both a scientific resource and a poetic reflection on avian diversity. For those building an African ornithology library, van Someren’s work remains a cherished volume that captures the wonder of observing birds in their native environments.