David Allen Sibley

David Sibley has been watching and drawing nature since the age of 7. This interest led him to travel extensively throughout North America, studying and painting birds and trees. Twenty years of intensive bird study culminated in the publication of The Sibley Guide to Birds in 2000, which became the fastest-selling bird guide ever. In 2009, after eight more years of work, the comprehensive Sibley Guide to Trees was published. Several more books and apps about birds have followed, with more in the works. Finding order in nature and helping others to understand and connect with the natural world is the ultimate goal of his work. David now lives in Massachusetts, where he continues to write and draw. You can learn more about David’s work at www.sibleyguides.com.


This is a fascinating discussion with an artist and author who’s work is known by many, but almost anonymously so. It was great to learn about David’s background and methods and a little about why and how he does the work he does. I think you’ll find it deeply engaging. As always, thanks for reading and for listening.

The Deckle Edge Blog & Podcast – David Allen Sibley – 3/15/21

David’s books:

Other books mentioned in this episode:

Other organizations mentioned in this episode:


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