Don Baccus wrote about capitalization of bird names:

> Anyway, I've seen many, many examples of writing using both
> styles, and have had editors accept both, so I'm convinced
> it's really a style, not "proper usage" issue. I prefer...

Ultimately, Don, it's up to the editor (or the stylesheet) for the intended
publication. The Associated Press Stylebook comes close to addressing
this issue under its "animal" entry.

If the editor has no preference, use your own. Capitalization does assist
the person who might not otherwise know that Yellow Warbler isn't just
any warbler and Little Stint is likewise a certain critter.

Scott Richardson
Olympia
richasar at dfw.wa.gov