Renowned birder, artist and author is returning to Ryerson Woods

On the heels of the release of his highly anticipated second edition of "The Sibley Guide to Birds," David Sibley will speak and sign books from 7-8 p.m. April 9 at Ryerson Woods in the Welcome Center, 21950 Riverwoods Road, Riverwoods. The event is free; registration is required.

Sibley, pre-eminent birder, author and illustrator, will talk about his work to expand and update his bird guide published in 2000.

The second edition, just released, offers new paintings, new and rare species and updated information sure to astound bird lovers of all levels.

The second edition also includes nearly 7,000 paintings, and all illustrations reproduced 15 percent to 20 percent larger for better detail.

Sibley will talk about his research in the field and in museums to gather information he said has made his second edition more accurate and more useful to birders. The cover features the Magnolia warbler, a bird Sibley recalls seeing first when his father, ornithologist Fred Sibley, banded it near the Point Reyes Bird Observatory in California. It's one of many birds that will be migrating through the Chicago and suburban area in May.

Sibley's book has been called "the finest guide to North American birds." He is a contributing editor to BirdWatching Magazine and author and illustrator of many other books about birds.

He last visited Ryerson Woods as keynote speaker of the 2003 Smith Nature Symposium. He spoke to a sold-out crowd.

This event is presented in partnership with Lake County Forest Preserve District and Lake Forest Book Store. Books will be available for purchase and signing.

Registration is required. Call (847) 968-3321 to register.

For more information, visit www.brushwoodcenter.org or call (847) 968-3343. Ryerson Woods is a Lake County Forest Preserve District property.