There is a tremendous amount of information on the topic of birds. However, most are presented in close-up or zoomed-in images that do not provide a sense of scale or comparison. As a result, it is very difficult to imagine how big or small a bird is. The bird is usually perceived to be bigger than it is. It is surprising and shocking how small it is in nature. It is not at all what was expected.

This illustration book “How Big are Birds Really” provides an educational resource that visually demonstrates the size of birds to relatable and recognizable items, such as an average person. This allows people to develop a better understanding of how big birds are. A frame of reference is established so that people can better image and adapt their expectations. 

For example, a European Robin is compared to an average adult’s foot. Different viewpoints are available from up close to further away, so depth and size can be accurately perceived. Annotations are included providing information about the bird’s name and size. 

It is also compared to other parts of an average person’s body, like the hand.

People can thereby develop a more realistic understanding by having a very clearly defined frame of reference, bird sizes in relation to an average adult. The next time they go birding they will know what to expect. Whether the bird is on the ground, closer to their foot, or in the air, closer to their hand, it is what they imagined it to be.

Design Process: