author

John Hooper Bowles

1875–1934

Best known as a careful observer of birds in the Pacific Northwest, this American ornithologist helped create one of the classic early books on Washington birdlife. His writing brings together close field knowledge, patience, and a real affection for the natural world.

1 Audiobook

The Birds of Washington (Volume 1 of 2) A complete, scientific and popular account of the 372 species of birds found in the state

The Birds of Washington (Volume 1 of 2) A complete, scientific and popular account of the 372 species of birds found in the state

by William Leon Dawson, John Hooper Bowles

About the author

Born in Boston on March 15, 1875, he developed an early interest in birds while growing up around the ponds and woods of Ponkapoag, Massachusetts. Later he moved west to Tacoma, Washington, where he became widely known for his field work and was regarded as an authority on the birds of the Northwest.

He is most closely associated with The Birds of Washington (1909), a major two-volume work written with William Leon Dawson. His published work reflects the habits of a dedicated naturalist: careful observation, long familiarity with local species, and a strong interest in nests, eggs, and bird distribution.

Bowles died in 1934. Although he is less widely remembered today than some popular nature writers, his work remains part of the early record of American ornithology and of the birdlife of Washington State.