The African continent and its associated islands are home to the world's second largest assemblage of birds, spanning two of the planet's great faunal kingdoms. The authors have divided the birds into large groups, with each chapter focusing on a particular group. Each group shares a common characteristic easily recognized by the nonspecialist: preferred habitat, main feeding behavior, or breeding method. For ease of reference, the bird families comprising each chapter are discussed in alphabetical order.

Although a great deal is known about the birds of Africa, much still awaits discovery. Entire species have yet to be described and entered into the scientific literature; sadly, some birds may become extinct before they can be properly studied. A recurring theme in the book is the threat to many species posed by the loss or dramatic modification of habitats and by human actions such as pesticide use, hunting for food and trade, and the destruction of forests. The authors emphasize that if current trends continue, more and more bird species will become endangered.

Chris and Tilde Stuart are the authors of Africa's Vanishing Wildlife; Africa: A Natural History; and Africa's Great Wild Places. They have also written a number of guides, including Field Guide to the Tracks and Signs of Southern and East African Wildlife; Field Guide to the Mammals of Southern Africa; Photographic Guide to the Mammals of Southern,Central and East Africa; and Guide to the Game and Nature Reserves of Southern Africa. They are the founders of the African-Arabian Wildlife Research Centre, which promotes research on African and Arabian carnivores and other vertebrates.