It seems humans have been fascinated, and sometimes counfounded, by birds since they began inhabiting the Earth together. Feathered creatures have been the subject of mythology and folklore throughout the millennia.
The same is true today.
"Even when you think you know everything about birds, you don't. You only know a tiny fraction," said freelance journalist and author Randi Minetor.
"They're always doing something you didn't expect. Or they show up in plumage you've never seen before. They come and they go, and you don't know exactly what their experience has been like."
Her latest book, "The Complete Language of Birds," is a richly illustrated encyclopedia for people who appreciate birds, whether at their backyard feeder or the exotic species seen around the globe.
Minetor, who is also president of the Rochester Birding Association, explores the symbolism and legends of nearly 400 bird species, their status in the world (hundreds of species are endangered), and interesting nuggets such as the lengthy "playlist" of the male song sparrow or the African grey parrot who was called as a witness in a murder trial.
This is Minetor's 95th nonfiction book. She calls it her magnum opus.
She will be speaking about her writing process and signing copies of "The Complete Language of Birds” Sat., Sept. 21 at 3:00 pm at Writers and Books, 740 University Ave. in Rochester.
