Bird Expert / Ornithology Writer for Print Field Guide (U.S. Birds — 2 Positions)

We are the publisher of many best-selling field guides covering natural and outdoor topics. We're looking for two bird experts with deep, demonstrable knowledge of North American birds (you're a serious birder, field naturalist, ornithologist, wildlife biologist, or similar) to help us produce a new print field guide covering roughly 150 bird species found across the United States. If the description above does not apply you will not be considered for this project. A strong command of spoken and written English is also required since we are targeting an American audience. This is not a "rewrite what's on Wikipedia" job. We're looking for people with real field knowledge of North American birds who can do two things: 1. Help define the entry template. Before any writing begins, you'll work with us to determine exactly what information every species entry should include so the guide is genuinely useful in the field. For example: identification marks and how to distinguish similar species, size and shape, plumage variations (male/female, seasonal, juvenile), vocalizations, habitat and range, behavior, feeding habits, nesting, seasonal presence, and anything else you believe belongs in a quality field guide. Your expertise directly shapes the structure of the book. 2. Write the entries. Once the template is locked, you'll research and write complete, accurate entries for your assigned share of the ~150 species (approximately 75 species per writer). Every entry must be factually accurate, consistent with the agreed template, and written in clear, concise language suited to a print field guide. Tight word counts, no filler, useful to both beginners and experienced birders. Scope ~150 U.S. bird species total, split between two writers (~75 each) Phase 1: Collaborate on defining the entry template and information requirements Phase 2: Write all assigned species entries to that template Print publication — entries must fit consistent length/structure requirements Ongoing collaboration with our editorial team; some revision rounds expected Required Qualifications - Deep, demonstrable knowledge of North American birds (you're a serious birder, field naturalist, ornithologist, wildlife biologist, or similar) - Ability to verify facts against authoritative sources (e.g., Cornell Lab / Birds of the World, AOS checklist, peer-reviewed literature) - Strong, concise writing — you can convey identification details clearly in limited space - Reliability: consistent weekly output and communication over a multi-month project Preferred (not required) - Degree in ornithology, wildlife biology, ecology, or related field - Prior experience writing field guide, natural history, or science content for print - Familiarity with eBird/regional data for range and seasonality accuracy