We’re passionate about nature and all its wonders, and these are the books we turn to time and again for inspiration, knowledge, and a deeper connection to the world around us. Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or just starting to explore the magic of your backyard, we hope these recommendations spark your curiosity and encourage you to embark on your own nature adventures!
When we are exploring new places near Ohio, Eastern Butterflies – Peterson Field Guide by Paul A. Opler and Vichai Malikul is our go-to guide. It covers tons of butterflies across the eastern US, so it’s perfect for identifying those unfamiliar beauties we meet on the road. Plus, it’s great to have on hand when we want to disconnect and enjoy nature without screens. Purchase on Amazon
Whenever we see a butterfly that we haven’t added to GardensWithWings.com, we open our National Audubon Society Field Guide to Butterflies. This field guide has beautiful photos of butterflies, eggs, caterpillars, and chrysalis stages! It includes helpful information about butterfly behavior and habitat. If you’re into butterflies, we recommend checking it out! Purchase on Amazon
When we’re stumped trying to identify a caterpillar munching on our plants, Caterpillars of Eastern North America by David L. Wagner is our go-to guide. This book includes detailed photos and descriptions of caterpillars in all their fuzzy, spiky, and colorful glory! It even helps you identify which butterfly or moth they’ll turn into. If you want to know the fascinating creatures behind those beautiful butterflies, we recommend adding this one to your bookshelf! Purchase on Amazon
When seeing a butterfly we can’t identify, the Kaufman Field Guide to Butterflies of North America by Jim P. Brock and Kenn Kaufman is another book we reference. The book has over 2,000 images (butterflies and range maps), which help identify the butterflies. Plus, it has interesting information about the butterfly’s life cycles and behaviors. Whether you’re a seasoned butterfly enthusiast or just starting out, this field guide is a valuable addition to your nature library! Purchase on Amazon
Living in Ohio, we have added Butterflies of Ohio by Jaret C. Daniels to our collection. This field guide is perfect for us, offering in-depth information about the butterflies we see at home. The photos are stunning, and the identification tips are spot-on. If you’re an Ohioan who loves nature, you’ll want to add this book to your collection! Purchase on Amazon
Want to create a backyard that’s beautiful and buzzing with life? We’ve transformed our backyard using the tips in The Living Landscape by Rick Darke & Doug Tallamy, and it’s now a haven for butterflies, birds, and so much more! This go-to guide is packed with practical advice and stunning photos, showing you how to design a landscape that supports all sorts of beneficial critters. We love flipping through this one for inspiration and to learn more about the fantastic connections in nature! Purchase on Amazon
Have you ever wondered what trees are up to when we’re not looking? The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben will blow your mind. This book reveals the secret world of trees, showing us how they communicate underground and even care for each other. It’s a fascinating read that will change how you see the forest – and maybe even your backyard! Purchase on Amazon
If you’re curious about the vital connection between native plants and the wildlife they support, Bringing Nature Home by Doug Tallamy is an eye-opener. It’s packed with fascinating insights into how our plant choices can make a real difference for butterflies, birds, and other creatures. We turn to this book time and again for inspiration and practical advice on creating a garden that’s truly alive with nature, and we’re sure it will inspire you too. Purchase on Amazon
