China, lying in the eastern part of Asia, has a vast area of 9.6 million square kilometers, with extremely diverse geographical landforms and natural conditions. It stretches across the frigid, temperate and tropical zones and is endowed with hundreds and thousands of mountains and rivers, vast forests, grasslands and fertile fields as well as deserts and numerous islands scattered in the seas around. A total of 2186(?8) kinds of birds are found in China, including 1234(?2) species and 944(?6) subspecies.

The book Birds of China entertains its readers with a collection of about 420 clear and vivid pictures of 402 rare bird species and with well-chosen data in its written illustrations, hoping to provide all who care for birds with a visual exhibition of these beautiful creatures. This collection may well be said to be a valuable contribution to the culture of bird-lovers and a sincere dedication to all readers, showing a deep love for the bird family of nine thousand members.