Zoology: birds (ornithology) Books

Book SynopsisTable of ContentsPart I. Undergirding themes 1. Importance of physiology of birds 2. Avian genomics 3. Transcriptomics of physiological systems 4. Avian Proteomics 5. Avian metabolomics 6. Mitochondrial physiology 7. Evolution of birds 8. Domestication of poultry Part II. Sensory biology and nervous system theme 9. The avian somatosensory system: a comparative view 10. Avian Vision 11. Avian Hearing 12. Avian olfaction and other chemical reception (excluding taste) 13. Avian taste reception 14. Avian nociception and pain 15. Magnetoreception and its use for long distance migration 16. Avian subpallium and autonomic nervous system Part III. Organ system theme 17. Blood 18. The cardiovascular system 19. Osmoregulatory systems of birds 20. Respiration 21. Gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology 21A. Intestinal villi and crypt organization and function 22. Bone 23. Skeletal muscle 24. The avian immune system Part IV. Metabolism theme 25. Carbohydrate metabolism 26. Adipose tissue and lipid metabolism 27. Protein metabolism 28. Food intake regulation Part V. Endocrine theme 29. Overview of avian neuropeptides and peptides 30. Pituitary gland 31. Thyroids 32. The role of hormones in the regulation of bone turnover and eggshell calcification 33. Adrenals Rocco 34. Endocrine pancreas Part VI. Reproductive theme 35. Reproduction in the female 36. Reproduction in the male 37. The physiology of the avian embryo Part VI. Cross-cutting themes 38. Stress Eco-physiology 39. Physiology of welfare/wellbeing of poultry 40. Reproductive Behavior 41. Physiology of growth 42. Circadian rhythms 43. Circannual cycles and photoperiodism 44. Annual cycles 45. Regulation of body temperature: patterns and processes 46. Flight 47. Physiological challenges of migration 48. Actions of toxicants and endocrine-disrupting chemicals in birds

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Book SynopsisThe book covers the identification, biology and relationships of all true shrikes, bush-shrikes, helmet-shrikes, the closely related shrike flycatchers, philentomas, batises and wattle-eyes.Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgements Sponsorship Layout and Methods Introduction - History - Characteristics of shrikes - Shrike communication - Communication summaries and relationships - Glossary - Topography - Genera Overview Species Accounts (1-114) References Appendix A: Problems of species limits and relationships Appendix B: Comparative characters

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Book SynopsisThis authoritative handbook, part of the Helm Identification Guides series, looks in detail at the world''s 170 species of robins and chats. This large family of small passerines was formerly considered to be part of the thrush family, Turdidae, but is now usually treated as a separate family, Muscicapidae, together with the Old World flycatchers. Robins and chats are a diverse family comprising both highly colorful and visible species, such as the robin-chats of Africa, as well as some of the most skulking and elusive birds, such as the shortwings of Asia. Many chats, such as the well-known Nightingale, are renowned songsters, and a good number are highly sought-after by world listers for their extreme rarity or simply because they are hard to see.This book discusses the identification and habits of these birds on a species-by-species basis, bringing together the very latest research, with accurate range maps, more than six hundred stunning color photographs that ilTable of ContentsIntroduction How to Use this Book: Layout and Scope Chat Systematics - Shaking the Tree by Per Alström Colour Plates Species Accounts Bibliography Acknowledgements

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Book SynopsisCovering almost 260 species of gamebirds, this book focuses on identification, status and distribution, habitats and geographical variation. Many of these species are both exotic and endangered, some are kept in private aviaries, while others are exploited commercially.Table of ContentsPreface Systematic List of Species Acknowledgements Introduction Style and Layout of the Book Topography Glossary Colour Plates and Maps Systematic Selection (171-462) Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisThis authoritative handbook covers the identification of this difficult group of warblers in breathtakingdetail, illustrated with line drawings, sonograms, wonderful colourplates and photographs. It is destined to become the ultimate referencefor these challenging birds.Trade Review'destined to become the ultimate reference for these challenging birds' Birdbooker report website (12th November 2010) 'Full of amazingly comprehensive data, yet extending an invitation to a world in which so much waits to be discovered, Reed and Bush Warblers is a Premiership-level 'keeper' for sure. A magnum opus, worth of addition to any birder's library.' Birdwatch (April 2011)Table of ContentsForeword by Professor Philip Round Acknowledgements Physical features and main habitat types of Eurasia Pacific Ocean showing location of major island and island groups Provinces of China, India, Pakistan Introduction Taxonomy, Species Inclusion and Sequence Genus and Species Account Topography of a Bird, Terminology and Glossary Migration Moult Strategies Ageing Phylogenetic Relationships as Revealed by Molecular Analyses by Professor Staffan Bensch Origins, Distributions and Extinction of Acrocephalus in the Pacific Ocean Major Contributors and Sources Colour Plates Species Accounts (129-621) Appendices: Appendix 1: Sources of original descriptions, type localities and synonyms Appendix 2: Live wing lengths of selected Palerartic migrant species Appendix 3: Principal measurements from museum specimens Appendix 4: Origins, migration status and moult strategies Appendix 5: Comparative field characters of similar species Appendix 6: Scientific names of other bird species mentioned in the text Appendix 7: Recent developments to 2010 Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive treatment of the birds of the genus Saxicola. It is primarily an identification guide, using colour plates and photographs to illustrate the various races and plumages, but it also covers the biology, habitat and range of each species. Distribution maps are included.Trade ReviewThe Helm series of identification guides is a superb resource. -- Sue Monahan * Birdwatch *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Foreword Sequence and Taxonomy English Names of Birds How to Use this Birds Topography A Molecular Phylogeny of Stonechats & Related Turdids by Michael Wink, Heidi Sauer-Gurth, Petra Heinrich Witt and Eberhard Gwinner Colour Plates Systematic Section (31-288) Photographic Section Glossary Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisThe Barn Swallow is one of the most widely distributed bird species, breeding in North America, Europe, Asia and North Africa and wintering in South America, southern Africa, southern Asia and even northern Australia. This book examines various aspects of the life of this bird, with chapters on its flying skills and feeding habits, and more.Trade Review'This authoritative book includes a wealth of research on this charismatic migrant.' 'Once again 'Poyser' has produced another excellent monograph.' Birding World (June 2007) 'An impressive synthesis of a mass of material... Anyone who likes watching Swallows will enjoy the insights provided into the life history. For researchers of social behaviour and flight dynamics, this is an excellent overview that will serve as a first port of call. IBIS (2007) 'This is a fascinating account of what is known of this species, as well as being a thoroughly enjoyable read.' British Birds (April 2007)Table of ContentsList of Figures List of Tables Acknowledgements 1 The Swallows 2 Flight and Feeding Behaviour 3 Social Behaviour and Socialisations 4 Attracting and Choosing a Mate 5 Breeding Strategies 6 Nest Sites and Nests 7 Eggs and Incubations 8 Chicks and Parental Care 9 Productivity and Survival 10 Migration and Dispersal 11 Populations Appendix: Scientific names of plants and animals mentioned in the text Bibliography

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Book SynopsisThis is the first monograph on one of the most beautiful and admired birds in the world. The Gyrfalcon is the world's largest and most powerful falcon - a truly awe-inspiring bird which inhabits the ferociously inhospitable Arctic taiga, from Greenland and Iceland right across Siberia and northern Canada.Trade Review"a good read, presenting much previously inaccessible information, as well as some interesting insights into some of the most remote and inhospitable places on earth." Ian Newton British Birds (Feb 2006) "A well-writen and a beautifully produced book." Ornithos (2005) "A fascinating read." BTO News (Jan/Feb 2006) "Well writen and informative...This book is highly recommeneded...In my opinion, it is equal to the best in single-species raptor books yet published." William S Clark Birdwatch (March 2006) "There is no doubt that this is a scholarly work and probably one of the most valuable and comprehensive on this species." Scottish Bird News (December 2005)Table of ContentsPreface 1 Paleobiogeography 2 Identification and Colours 3 Distribution 4 Population 5 Habitat and Landscape Preferences 6 Food and Feeding Habits 7 Breeding Cycle 8 Dispersal, Seasonal Movements and Winter Distribution 9 Competitors, Commensals and Conspecifics 10 Man and Falcons 11 Threats and Conservation Appendix: Scientific names of plants and animals mentioned in the text Glossary References

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Book SynopsisThis third edition discusses in depth the various ways in which weather conditions influence bird behaviour. Weather conditions affect food and water availability, decisions about when and how to migrate, timing and success of reproduction, flight style and physical comfort.Table of ContentsList of colour plates List of Figures List of Tables Preface and Acknowledgements 1 The Weather 2 Flight 3 Feeding 4 Aerial Feeding 5 Breeding 6 Comfort 7 Migration: Inception and Progress 8 Migration Drift and Displacement 9 Vagrancy 10 Migration of Soaring Birds 11 Extreme Weather 12 Seabirds References Appendices

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Book SynopsisA summary of the findings of the 'Seabird 2000' national initiative to carry out a census on all the breeding seabirds of Britain and Ireland, this study includes accounts of the current numbers and distribution of 25 different species.

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Book SynopsisThis guide is fascinating reading for everyone who has an interest in migration and vagrancy in Britain, has made the journey to see any of the birds concerned, or has ever dreamed of finding a 'first' of their own.Trade Review"will send many tingles of excitement through the older troops who witnessed some of these remarkable birds." Graham Catley British Birds (Feb 2006) "this book is a neat reference, a great read and a must-have for anyone interested in British rarities." Ian Lewington Ornithos (2005) "A gripping read, a thoroughly enjoyable documentation and an attractive, well-produced book. Highly recommended." BTO News (Jan/Feb 2006) "Both a useful reference work and a good read." British Birds (Feb 2006) "Will appeal to the latent twitcher in all of us." The Guardian (26 Nov 2005)Table of ContentsPreface Foreword by Eric Meek Birder's Map of Britain 1980 The twitcher's diary - Richard Millington 1981 The tattler's tale - Chris Harbard 1982 Hitching and twitching - John McLoughlin 1983 Four lifers in one day - Richard Thomas 1984 The dessert courser - Dominic Mitchell 1985 Fanfare for the common bird - Mark Cocker 1986 Birding with Santa - Tim Melling 1987 The birth of Birdline - Steve Gantlett 1988 A whale of a time - Tim Cleeves 1989 Migrating north - Adrian Pitches 1990 Bunting hunting - Colin Bradshaw 1991 A new wife - and several gull friends - Martin Garner 1992 My final season on Fair Isle - Paul Harvey 1993 Tern the other cheek! - Susan Hepton 1994 Ross's Gulls and mega buntings - Steve Young 1995 Premier League birding in Manchester - Judith Smith 1996 A turning point - Alistair Crowle 1997 Year listing one last time - Alan Davies 1998 The patchwatcher's reward - Russell Slack 1999 Finding the big one - Jimmy Steele 2000 In the recovery ward with a Red-Necked Stint - Roger Riddington 2001 Touch and go on North Ronaldsay - Malcolm Roxby 2002 Migration Watch and Wedding March - Dawn Balmer 2003 A fine year in Fife - Ken Shaw 2004 Fabulous Fair Isle - Rebecca Nason Appendix 1 - Firsts for Ireland and the Isle of Man not recorded in Britain Appendix 2 - Categories of the British List References Bibliography Websites Index

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Book SynopsisAn authoritative yet highly readable monograph on one of Britain's rarest yet most spectacular breeding birds, the Golden Oriole. This is the latest title in the acclaimed series of Poyser monographs.Trade Review'this monograph is an absolute must...the authors helped set up the Golden Oriole Group, so there's all the expetise you could want...it's a price well worth paying' Bird Watching (October 2009) 'This monograph fills a gap in the literature at a point when the species' future as a British breeding bird hangs in the balance.' Birding World (2009) 'The enthusiasm of the authors, their detailed knowledge and precise documentation of their work, and chapters such as 'Population: past,present and future'...give the book its special character and everyone interested in orioles should have it on their bookshelf.' Bulletin of the British Ornithologists Union (2010)Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Introduction 1. The Golden Oriole and the genus Oriolus 2. The story of Lakenheath and The Golden Oriole Group 3. Habitat in Britain, Europe and North Africa 4. Habitat in other parts of the breeding range 5. The special case of Kazakhstan 6. Climate and weather 7. Courtship and nest-building 8. Egg-laying and incubation 9. Nestlings and fledglings 10. Diet 11. Interspecific relationships 12. Song and calls 13. Population: past, present and future 14. Migration 15. Wintering 16. Orioles in captivity Appendices 1 Systematic list of Oriolidae 2 List of species mentioned in the text 3 Invertebrate prey 4 Site occupancy 1987-2005 5 'Oriole' in other languages and places 6 Analysis of a recording of an oriole song 7 Details of the 1987 survey 8 Historical records of Golden Oriole in Britain Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisFor this third edition, the typematter has been reset throughout to accommodate the many revisions and additions to the text. The identification drawings, too, have been reviewed and lan Willis has amended or redrawn elements of most of the Figures and has provided several additional drawings. There are 70 new photographs in the section of plates which has now been increased to 96 pages with a total of 248 photographs. The identification of the diurnal birds of prey is especially difficult. There is wide variation in plumage among some species, especially the eagles and buzzards, and in all species general outlines and wing positions are much affected by the prevailing conditions, by wind and light, and by the bird's behaviour at the time. Often, too, the birds are only sighted at long range, and the authors believe that when travelling extensively in Europe even the expert cannot hope to identify more than seventy per cent of the raptors seen. In the book, the 38 European species haveTable of ContentsForeword by James Ferguson-Lees Introduction 1 The Buzzard and Honey Buzzard 2 The Eagles and Osprey 3 The Harriers and Kites 4 The Vultures 5 The Large Falcons 6 The Small Falcons and Black-winged Kite 7 The Accipiters 8 Summary of the Legal Status of Birds of Prey in Europe Index of scientific names

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Book SynopsisFocusing on the raven's ecology in the UK, this text presents a summary of the state of knowledge regarding the raven's natural history, describing its present distribution, habitat requirements, call, feeding habits, social behaviour and population centres.Trade ReviewIt is the sort of bird book I particularly enjoy because a fresh wind blows through much of it, showing the author to be what a writer about ravens should be--an acute observer. Guardian Powerful illustrations complement writing of real insight into these formidable, yet playful, birds. New Scientist Do buy this excellent book and read it. Cambrian Ornithology Society Bulletin No 112 Derek Ratcliffe has an enthusiasm that shines through the pages of his latest book. The text is supported by extensive appendices and tables, crammed with data and facts; serious matters of behaviour and ecology are addressed; but the presentation is constantly enlivened by anecdote. This is a book about real birds, not textbook abstractions. As such it is a joy to read as well as a valuable contribution to ornithology. Habitat [Ratcliffe] presents a comprehensive and historical picture of this once common town scavenger. Birding World The personal approach by the author is refreshing and his administration for the raven is evident throughout the very readable text. hland News GroupTable of ContentsPreface xv Acknowledgements xix Introduction: The Raven: spirit of the wilds 1 1. THE RAVEN IN HUMAN HISTORY 7 Prehistory 8 The Raven in myth and legend 9 From scavenger friend to predator-foe 16 2. THE RAVEN'S COUNTRY 27 Cliff coasts of the agricultural districts 30 Lowland farmland in the west 32 Foothills and marginal land 33 Sheepwalks of the higher hills 34 Grouse-moors of the eastern uplands 35 Deer forests of western and northern Scotland 36 Cliff coasts of the northern and western moorlands 37 3. DISTRIBUTION AND NUMBERS IN BRITAIN AND IRELAND 4O South-east England 40 The Channel Isles 42 South-west England 42 East Anglia 46 Wales 47 Midlands 53 Northern England 55 Southern Scotland 60 Scottish Highlands 64 Scottish Islands 68 Ireland 71 Grand totals 74 4. FOOD AND FEEDING HABITS 75 Studies of food 78 The Raven as a predator 82 Other foods 89 Feeding habits 91 5. SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR 97 Territorialism 97 Flocking and communal roosts 101 Social behaviour in display 107 6. RAVEN MOVEMENTS 118 General movements 118 Daily movements 125 7. ASSOCIATIONS WITH OTHER ANIMALS 127 Birds 127 Mammals 138 8. BREEDING: NEST AND NEST SITE 139 Nest construction 140 Nest sites 144 9. BREEDING: THE EGG STAGE 16O Prelaying behaviour 160 The egg 161 Clutch size 165 Laying 168 Incubation 171 1O. BREEDING: THE YOUNG 174 Nestling growth 175 Brood size 182 Breeding performance 188 Causes of complete breeding failure 189 Egg-collecting and its effects on breeding performance 189 Regional variations in productivity 191 11. TERRITORIAILISM AND POPULATION REGULATION 196 Surplus non-breeding populations 199 Rapid remating 200 The ceiling on numbers 202 Territorialism and variations in breeding density 204 Mechanism of territorial spacing 208 Limitations of unsuitable nesting habitat 210 Mortality, population turnover and capacity for spread 211 12. RAVENS IN THE MODERN SCENE 217 Gamekeepering 218 Afforestation 225 Changes in farming practice 232 Disturbance 236 Pesticides 238 Conclusions 240 13. RAVENS ELSEWHERE IN THE WORL~D 241 Subspecies of Corr~us corax 243 Other species of Raven 245 14. INTELLIGENCE IN RAVENS 249 Appendices 1. Distribution of Raven flocks and roosts in Britain and Ireland 256 2. Calls of the Raven 265 3. Appearance of the Raven 268 4. Scientific names of animal and plant species in the text 271 5. Names of the Raven 274 Bibliography 275 l40 Tables 1-27 284 Index 317 60

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Book SynopsisExamining the taxonomy, appearance, behaviour, ecology and conservation of golden and grey plovers, this text compares and contrasts their natural history and biogeography and gives accounts on feeding, mating, parental care, moults, migration and avoidance of predators.Trade ReviewA well-researched book packed with information. It should appeal to all shorebird enthusiasts, as well as anybody concerned with the ecology of Arctic regions. -- Martin K. McNicholl North American Bird Bander Everything known about these birds is summarized in a very readable way, and the numerous appendices and tables testify to the massive amount of information, with great attention to detail, that has been researched... Birders will appreciate the very detailed discussions of variation, plumage, and molt in the four species. I recommend Tunda Plovers highly, especially to birders with a serious interest in shorebird biology. -- Dennis Paulson Birding There is plenty for the statistically-minded, and the serious researcher, as well as for the general wader-watcher. If you can't buy it, request it from the library! -- Geoff Gibbs Essex Birding Tundra Plovers is an ambitious and rewarding comparative treatment of the four species in the genus Pluvialis. [It] is an extraordinarily attractive book for one so filled with hard ornithological information. -- Peter G. Connors Auk Byrkjedal and Thompson, research scientists from Norway and Scotland, respectively, have melded their specialties of ecology and animal behavior to produce a thoroughly comprehensive analysis of four species of closely related northern hemisphere shorebirds. Choice This is a highly informative book, well presented and in an attractive format. The authors should be congratulated for producing such an easily readable, yet highly informative text which, I believe, will be the key reference for these birds for many years to come. -- Mark Whittingham Ibis It is a deeply inspired book, the labour of love from a gifted Norwegian/Scottish duo. The book is beautiful for its many original drawings by Ingvar Byrkjedal and for its text, and it provides an incredible, worldwide, compilation of data on the birds' morphology, distribution, population sizes, breeding schedules, breeding behaviour, migration patterns and schedules and diets. If you love, or even just like, plovers and the habitats in which they occur, this is a book for you. -- Theunis Piersma Ardea [A] comprehensive review of ecology, behaviour, migrations and biogeography of the genus. The large format and the ... technique of including extensive detail in appendices and tables at the back of the book allow a wealth of information to be presented; the text is well supported by the numerous photographs and drawings. Arctic and mountain regions fascinate many people; so do shorebirds; not only such specialists but many other birdwatchers will get much use and pleasure from this book. -- Jeremy J.D. Greenwood Habitat Written by two authors with over 50 years experience studying tundra plovers between them, this book is as complete an account of their biology as the current state of our knowledge will allow. Every aspect of the ecology of the four species involved is considered in detai... [A] treasure to students and researchers alike... All in all a very nice book. Highly recommended. Earthlife WebTable of ContentsList of plates ix List of figures xiii List of tables xvii Foreword by Dr Derek Ratcliffe xix Preface xxiii Acknowledgements xxix 1. The tundra plovers: an introduction 1 2. Tundra plovers and their allies 34 3. Taxonomy and geographical variation 44 4. Plumages and moults 61 5. Phylogeny and biogeography 89 6. Breeding distribution, population trends and status 102 7. Breeding season: breeding schedules and nesting 125 8. Breeding season: social behaviour 155 9. Breeding season: sex roles and parental behaviour 183 10. Migration and non-breeding distributions 207 11. Behaviour and ecology in the non-breeding season 241 12. Diet: food and feeding 258 13. Associations with other birds 272 14. Conservation 278 Appendix 1: Scientific names of birds and mammals mentioned in the book 291 Appendix 2: Plumage variation in Eurasian Golden Plovers in Norway 295 Appendix 3: Descriptions of plumages of the tundra plovers 299 Appendix 4: The phylogeny of the tundra plovers (by Godtfred A. Halvorsen, Ingvar Byrkjedal &D.B.A. Thompson) 308 Appendix 5: Breeding densities in different parts of the world 328 Appendix 6a: Nest site habitats of Grey Plover 330 Appendix 6b: Nest site habitats ofEurasian Golden Plover 331 Appendix 6c: Nest site habitats of Pacific Golden Plover 333 Appendix 6d: Nest site habitats ofAmerican Golden Plover 334 Appendix 7. Duration of incubation 336 Appendix 8: Sequences of tonal element in trills 337 Appendix 9. Breeding season alarm calls 338 Appendix 10: Geographical and temporal distribution of museum specimens used in the construction of migration routes and phenologies 345 Appendix 11: Geographical distribution of references used for the migration charts and winter distribution maps 353 Appendix 12: Numbers of Grey Plovers counted or estimated in various parts of their wintering range 355 Appendix 13: Winter populations of Eurasian Golden Plovers in parts of their range 357 Appendix 14: Numbers of American Golden Plovers counted in winter on aerial surveys along the coasts of South America 358 References 359 Tables 398 Index 412

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Book SynopsisWhether you’d like to wake up to a cheery robin’s birdsong or see hummingbirds in your garden, Jan Mahnken has you covered. In this colorful reference book, you’ll find simple tips to attract, feed, and observe 135 American bird species. Mahnken provides information on territory, courtship, nesting, parenting, and much more, while Jeffrey C. Domm brings each species to life with stunningly detailed paintings.

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive and fully illustrated field guide to the birds of Venezuela, covering all 1,400 species.Covering the sixth largest avifauna in the world, this guide is essential for anyone exploring the diverse habitats of this beautiful South American country as well as Guyana, northern Brazil and west Suriname. Birds of Venezuela - complete with authoritative text and superb colour plates - ensures that this top birding destination is accessible to all.This field guide has 248 colour plates illustrating more than 1,400 species, covering racial, sexual and seasonal plumage variations. Accompanying text is placed on facing pages for easy reference providing key information, voice and status of all species and subspecies found in the region, including Venezuela''s 45 endemic species. Detailed colour distribution maps are provided for every species.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Introduction How many bird species are there in Venezuela? Geography, climate and major regions Maps of Venezuela Description of habitats Bird identification Bird topography How to use this book Abbreviations Glossary Family accounts Plates and species accounts (1-248) Appendices References Index

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Book SynopsisThis is the first comprehensive Turkish avifauna, describing the status of every species known to occur in this fascinating country. With authoritative text and detailed maps for every species, it is produced under the auspices of the Ornithological Society of the Middle East.Trade Review"This is without doubt a monumental publication" "Guy Kirwan and his team are to be congratulated on a thorough, professional publication that will without doubt be the essential reference for Turkish birdlife" BirdGuides.com February 2009 "this book is a great achievement in the study of birds of the Middle East" Falcon Research Group, Spring 2009Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgements The breeding season Modern ornithology in Turkey: reflections and future directions The gaps in our knowledge Turkey's ecoregions: their biodiversity and conservation Introduction to the species accounts Species accounts (47-466) Bibliography Index of Scientific Names Index of Turkish Names Index on English Names

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Book SynopsisThis authoritative title is the definitive avifauna covering the Iberian Peninsula.The Iberian Peninsula is one of Europe''s most ornithologically varied regions offering a host of regional specialities. It includes famous birding hotspots such as the Coto Donaña wetlands, mountainous areas such as the Picos de Europa and the Pyrenees, the Mediterranean cork and holm oak forests of the southwest, the migration crossroads of the Strait of Gibraltar and the steppe-like plains of Extremadura and Alentejo. Large numbers of birders from around Europe visit the region to see this wealth of winged wildlife, but to date there has been no comprehensive regional avifauna in English.Birds of the Iberian Peninsula is a national avifauna that fills this gap in the ornithological literature. Full-colour throughout, the book begins with authoritative introductory chapters covering subjects such as geography, climate, habitats, the history of Iberian ornithology and the comTable of Contents1 Preface 2 Acknowledgements 3 A brief history of Iberian avifaunal studies 4 Iberia: Geography and climate The Iberian Peninsula and its Islands: - The geography of mainland Iberia - The Balearic Islands - Other peninsular archipelagos Climate: - The Bioclimatic Zones: Temperature and Precipitation - Climate change 5 Habitats Mediterranean evergreen plant communities Eurosiberian plant communities Other natural habitats Man-man habitats 6 The Iberian avifauna Breeding species Breeding birds of the Iberian climatic regions Recent changes in the Iberian breeding avifauna Winter species Migrants and migration - Migrant species - Migration - Seabird movements - Trans-Pyrenean movements - Landbird migration at the Strait of Gibraltar 7 Introduction to the species accounts 8 The Systematic List 9 Category D Species Appendices 1 Category E1 species 2 Breeding species of conservation concern 3 Scientific names of animals and plants mentioned in the text 4 List of Spanish regional bird reports 5 List of Spanish and Portuguese rarity reports References List of illustrations

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Book SynopsisBased on many years of personal research, and a thorough knowledge of the European literature, the authors provide an eminently readable account of the biology of the Common Buzzard. Whatever your interests in birds, I can recommend this book for its content of information and insight.' Professor Ian Newton OBE, FRS, FRSESoaring majestically on thermals with broad wings raised, the Common Buzzard is a familiar sight for many people across Eurasia. In fact, thanks to a remarkable ability to adapt to local conditions, it is now one of the most abundant hawks in the world. The Common Buzzard can exploit a variety of nest sites, and has an eclectic diet that ranges from earthworms and voles to woodpigeons and even deer carcasses. This is a species rich in paradoxes. Why does a hawk evolved for hunting small mammals thrive on invertebrates and carrion? How can a raptor renowned for dramatic territorial displays occur at such high densities? And why does such a large bird that

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Book SynopsisA monograph of the Common Eider, a large and familiar duck with a long and fascinating cultural history.A common sight around the more northerly shores of the British Isles, the Common Eider is the largest duck in the northern hemisphere. The eider is particularly well adapted to cold-water environments; the insulating properties of eider down are iconic.The species is taxonomically interesting, with a range of well-marked subspecies reflecting the patterns of ice coverage during ancient glaciations, and these ducks have also provided the focus for a number of important behavioural studies, especially on feeding ecology and energy budgets.Eiders have a long association with humans, and have deep cultural significance in many societies. However, modern lifestyles are exposing these ducks to a wide range of new pressures.This monograph provides a comprehensive portrait of the Common Eider; authors Chris Waltho and John Coulson bring together an extensive and diverse international

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Book SynopsisEthiopia is one of Africa''s top birding destinations, harbouring dramatic scenery, a wonderful diversity of habitats, over 30 endemic species, and a number of other regional specialities that cannot be easily seen anywhere else in the world. No self-respecting world lister can afford not to go there!This new book is a comprehensive site guide to the 50 best birding sites in the country. Each site describes how to get there, what you can see there, and when to visit. A number of full colour maps complement the site texts, and GPS co-ordinates allow sites to be located with great accuracy. A section covering the top 50 species gives details of how to see each of these special birds. The book is completed with an annotated checklist of all the country''s birds and more than 150 photographs of birds, habitats and even some of Ethiopia''s other fauna and flora.Trade Review'contains essential information for planing any trip' Birdwatch (November 2010)Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Foreword by Megistu Wondafrash Introduction Habitat and endemism Planning a birding trip to Ethiopia Structure of this book Top Fifty Sites Top Fifty Birds Appendices: A. List of GPS coordinates B. Mammals mentioned in the text C. Complete Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Ethiopia Index of sites and localities

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Book SynopsisThis fascinating study describes the natural histories of these brood parasites and examines many of the exciting questions they raise about the evolution of cheating and the arms race between parasites and their prey.Brood parasites fill their armoury with adaptations including exquisite egg mimicry, rapid laying, ejection of host eggs, murder of host young, chick mimicry and manipulative begging behaviour: ploys shown by recent research to have evolved in response to host defence behaviour or through competition among the parasites themselves. While many host species appear defenceless, accepting parasite eggs quite unlike their own, many are more discriminating against odd-looking eggs and some have evolved the ability to discriminate against odd-looking chicks as well.How is this arms race conducted? Will defenceless hosts develop defences in time, or are there constraints which limit the evolution and perfection of host defences? And why are

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Book SynopsisIn this major work Dr Mikkola reviews the 13 owls breeding in Europe and an additional four species in lands adjoining the Mediterranean in North Africa and the Middle East. The book has three parts:I: Special Characteristics - origins, taxonomy, anatomical features, pelletsII: Species Descriptions - the 17 species described in detail, with voice, behaviour, food, breeding and distribution (34 maps)III: Ecological Relationships - largely concerned with interactions between owls and with other birds of preyIdentification, part of the Species Descriptions text, is more than supplemented by 8 superb colour plates by Ian Willis. In addition there are numerous line drawings and over 70 photographs.Table of ContentsIntroduction Acknowledgements Part I: Special Characteristics of Owls Part II: Species Descriptions Part III: Ecological Relationships Selected bibliography List of references Tables 1-69 Index

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsPreface 1 Introduction 2 The Pugnacious Father 2.1 The lek site 2.2 Territories 2.3 Satellite males 2.4 Marginal males 2.5 Plumage diversity 2.6 Females on leks 2.7 Mating 2.8 Alternative male strategies 3 The Vigilant Mother 3.1 Breeding habitat 3.2 Parental care 3.3. Development of the chicks 4 Indolence or Diligence? 4.1 Distribution 4.2 Diet and foraging 4.3 Moult 4.4 Migration 4.5 Costs and time-schedules 4.6 Do females nest near the leks which they visit? 5 Comparison and Evolution 5.1 Taxonomic relationships 5.2 Courtship and mating pattern 5.3 Variation in size and plumage 5.4 The ancestors and their contrasting social lives Epilogue List of bird names mentioned in the text Selected bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsList of Photographs List of Figures List of Tables Preface 1. Introduction 2. Migration of soaring birds 3. Migration of other land birds 4. Migration and wintering of waterbirds 5. Migration of seabirds 6. Terrestrial bird communities 7. Wetlands 8. The birds of the Strait - seasonality, distribution and biological importance Appendix 1: Systematic list of the birds in the Strait of Gibraltar Appendix 2: Dominant Plant Species in some habitats of the Strait of Gibraltar Appendix 3: Mean densities of breeding birds in sites described in Chapter 6 Appendix 4: Methods used in some of the studies described in the text Appendix 5: Abbreviations used in Chapters 6 and 7 References Index

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsList of photographs of bird habitats Acknowledgements Key abbreviations used in this book Introduction - Area of coverage - The British avifauna - The criteria selection of Red Data species - The species selected and future candidates - The contents of species texts Species texts Bird habitats in Britain Threats to bird survival in Britain Bird conservation in Britain Future action for birds Appendices: Population estimates of British breeding and wintering birds Red Data birds species list: criteria for selection and index to species accounts Red Data Bird candidate species Index

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsForeword by Mike Pienkowski Introduction Part 1: Seabird Biology and the Seabird Colony Register Part 2: The Species Accounts Appendices References

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsPreface 1 Introduction 2 Kestrels around the world 3 Diet and prey selection 4 Hunting and Eating 5 Food intake, energetics and body weight 6 Moult 7 Home range and territory 8 Winter density 9 Nesting sites 10 Breeding density 11 The breeding cycle: pair formation and courtship 12 The breeding cycle: the egg stage 13 The breeding cycle: the nestling stage 14 The timing of breeding 15 Breeding performance 16 Movements and migrations 17 Population turnover 18 Age and sex ratios 19 Mortality 20 Population regulation 21 Conclusions Appendix I: Measuring Kestrel Diet Appendix II: Measuring the size of home ranges and territories Appendix III: Scientific names of vertebrates in the text Bibliography Tables 1-77

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Book SynopsisThis companion volume to The Atlas of Breeding Birds of Britain and Ireland is derived from surveys of birds present in Britain and Ireland during the three winters, 1981/82, 1982/83 and 1983/84.The surveys were organised by the British Trust for Ornithology and the Irish Wildbird Conservancy, as were the earlier breeding birds surveys. The Winter Atlas maps 200 species, 192 of which have full-page two-colour maps faced by a page of text. The texts (written by over 100 specialists) comment on the survey results, the species generally and the distribution and abundance as mapped.In addition there are introductory chapters on the maps, the weather in the three winters, bird patterns and movements; and appendices describing the planning, organisation, field methods, and processing of the survey data from record cards to computer output and maps.A team of 23 artists, led by Robert Gillmor, has provided the line drawings which head the species accoun

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsAcknowledgements 1 Background, study areas and methods 2 The Sparrowhawk 3 Nesting habitat 4 Nest spacing and breeding density 5 Ranging behaviour 6 Population trends 7 Hunting and feeding behaviour 8 Food 9 The Sparrowhawk as a predator 10 Breeding season 11 The breeding cycle: early stages 12 The breeding cycle: eggs and incubation 13 The breeding cycle: growth of young 14 The breeding cycle: parental care 15 The breeding cycle: post-fledgling period 16 Season trend in breeding success 17 Nest failures 18 Age and breeding 19 Moult 20 Dispersal 21 Territory and mate fidelity 22 Migration 23 Mortality 24 Effects of pesticides 25 Conclusions Appendix 1: Finding nests Appendix 2: Persecution of Sparrowhawks Appendix 3: Procedure for analysis of nest spacing Appendix 4: Causes and diagnosis of nest failure Bibliography Tables 1-63 Index

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Book Synopsis''The most important work on the birds of Scotland ever published'' - British BirdsThis comprehensive study and review of the birds in Scotland follows on from where the celebrated two volumes of The Birds of Scotland (1953), by Dr Baxter and Miss Rintoul, left off.It does more than that, however, since not only has there been a profound increase in ornithological coverage and data (as reflected in the species accounts), there have also been great changes in habitat and environment since the days of Baxter & Rintoul.These aspects form the themes of the ten preliminary chapters reviewing the Scottish scene today in terms of habitat, conservation, birdwatching and the changes in species status and distribution. The species accounts, the backbone of the book, review the period 1950-83 but include, where practicable, records of rarities and details of counts up to the spring of 1985; there are also brief summaries of earlier data based on the researches of Baxte

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsEditor’s Introduction Moustached Warblers in Cambridgeshire Bonellis Warbler on Skokholm Isabelline Shrike on the Isle of May Terek Sandpiper in East Sussex and Suffolk Bluecheeked Beeeater in Scilly Olivaceous Warbler on Skokholm Redeyed Vireo at Tuskar Rock Olivebacked Pipit on Fair Isle Olivebacked Pipit on Skokholm Laughing Gull at Dungeness Rufoussided Towhee on Lundy Spanish Sparrow on Lundy Parula Warbler in Scilly Penduline Tit at Spurn Brown Thrasher in Dorset American Robin on Lundy Magnificent Frigatebird on Tiree Semipalmated Sandpiper at Cley Greycheeked Thrush on Fair Isle Black Duck in Co Kilkenny Black Duck in Co Wexford Royal Tern in Co Dublin Royal Tern in Kent Stilt Sandpiper in Humberside Wilsons Phalarope in Fife Frank Citrine Wagtail on Fair Isle Baik.al Teal on Fair Isle Siberian Thrush on the Isle of May Yellowthroat on Lundy Yellowrumped Warbler in Devon Ringnecked Duck at Slimbridge Ringnecked Duck in Berkshire Collared Doves in Norfolk Sardinian Warbler on Lundy Thickbilled Warbler on Fair Isle Lesser Shorttoed Larks in Ireland Frank King Swainsons Thrush in Co Mayo Western Sandpiper on Fair Isle Summer Tanager on Bardsey Rosebreasted Grosbeak in Co Antrim Rosebreasted Grosbeak in Co Cork Northern Waterthrush in Scilly Northern Oriole on Lundy American Purple Gallinule in Scilly Song Sparrow on Fair Isle Slenderbilled Gull in East Sussex Cettis Warbler in Hampshire Calandra Lark at Portland Bill Fox Sparrow on Copeland Island River Warbler on Fair Isle Fantailed Warbler on Cape Clear Island Bimaculated Lark on Lundy Bobolink in Scilly Piedbilled Grebe in Avon Yellow Warbler on Bardsey Eyebrowed Thrushes in Northamptonshire Western Isles and Scilly Cretzschmars Bunting on Fair Isle Little Swift on Cape Clear Island American Redstart in Cornwall Blackpoll Warbler in Scilly Blackpoll Warbler on Bardsey Spectacled Warbler at Spurn Evening Grosbeak on St Kilda Shorttoed Treecreeper at Dungeness Franklins Gull in Hampshire Hooded Warbler in Scilly Scarlet Tanager in Scilly Veery in Cornwall Desert Warbler on Portland Trumpeter Finches in Suffolk and Highland Ringbilled Gull in West Glamorgan Ringbilled Gull in West Glamorgan Ovenbird in Shetland lain Hermit Thrush on Fair Isle Whitetailed Plover in Warwickshire Tennessee Warblers on Fair Isle Yellowbellied Sapsucker in Scilly Siberian Rubythroat on Fair Isle American Kestrel on Fair Isle American Kestrel in Cornwall Pallass Reed Bunting on Fair Isle Whitecrowned Sparrows on Fair Isle and in Humberside Cape May Warbler in Strathclyde Eleonoras Falcon in Merseyside Rüppells Warbler in Shetland Pallid Swift in Kent Semipalmated Plover in Scilly Greater Sand Plover in West Sussex Belted Kingfisher in Co Mayo Aleutian Tern on the Farne Islands Forsters Tern in Cornwall Editors Summary References Index Photographs

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Book SynopsisCrows and Jays is a combination of scientifically accurate information and an identification guide, planned to give anyone, whether a birdwatcher or biologist, a greater understanding of the lives of these beautiful, yet very complex, group of birds.120 species of crows, jays and their allies exist in the world today. Many are exceedingly beautiful in colour, grace and form, whereas others are black and somewhat sinister in appearance. In no other group of perching birds has evolution produced such a degree of variation, from the tiny Hume''s Ground-Jay of the steppe-highlands of Tibet to the huge Thick-billed Raven of the mountains of Ethiopia.Some have had a long association with people and appear in tales of mythology and superstition, while others have been regarded as agricultural pests. The great majority, however, remain largely unknown, their only contact with humanity being the destruction of their specialised habitats. As a consequence, more than 20 species are Table of ContentsSystematic list of the Corvini Introduction Acknowledgements Conservation Relationships and Origins Format of the book Topography and Plumages Glossary Colour Plates and Maps

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Book SynopsisThis is the first complete identification guide to the skuas of the world. Skuas (and jaegers) are a fascinating and popular group of seabirds that make up a subfamily of just seven species. They can be divided into two main groups: the larger species of Catharacta skuas which are mainly found in the southern hemisphere (with Great Skua breeding in the north), and the three Stercorarius species (also known as jaegers) which breed in the northern hemisphere. Both northern and southern skuas breed at high latitudes and several species are long-distance migrants, performing spectacular migrations through most of the world's oceans, sometimes even flying overland. The individual plumage variation in some species is enormous, creating one of the most puzzling yet fascinating challenges in modern field identification. This guide is designed to enable species identification and correct ageing, and the information presented is based on years of study in the field, detailed examinatTable of ContentsIntroduction Acknowledgements Taxonomy, Relationships and Characteristics The Skua Species: A Brief Overview Breeding Behaviours Age Development of Skuas Skuas and Man Observing Skuas in the Field Explanation of the Species Accounts Colour Plates Systematic Selection Colour Photographs Bibliography

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Book SynopsisAn authoritative study of extinction in birds, with case studies of 20 critically endangered species and the research initiatives designed to save them.Almost two hundred species of birds have become extinct in the past 400 years, and a similar number today are in imminent danger of following them. The world''s conservationists are leading the fight to prevent the demise of these remaining critically endangered birds, with a fair degree of success.This new book examines the process and issues concerning extinction - how and why it happens and what can be done about it. Whilst man is to blame for many of the causes, such as persecution and habitat loss, species have become extinct on a regular basis since life began.After several thought-provoking introductory chapters, the book showcases about 20 species on the brink of extinction from around the world and describes the work that is being undertaken to save them. Some are success stories, but a few areTable of ContentsAcknowledgements Preface 1. The nature of rarity and the rarity of nature 2. The distribution and causes of rarity 3. Sociable Lapwing Vanellus gregarius 4. Spoon-billed Sandpiper Eurynorhynchus pygmeus 5. Brazilian Merganser Mergus octosetaceus 6. Royal Cinclodes Cinclodes aricomae 7. Bengal Florican Houbaropsis bengalensis 8. Liben Lark Heteromirafa sidamoensis 9. Yellow-crested Cockatoo Cacatua sulpurea 10. Rarity and extinction on islands 11. Stephens Island Wren Xenicu (Traversia) lyalli 12. Tristan Albatross Diomedea dabbenena 13. Raso Lark Alauda razae 14. Po'ouli Melamprosops phaeosoma 15. Saving the world's rarest birds 16. Kakapo Strigops habroptila 17. Asian vultures Gyps bengalensis, G. tenuirostris, G. indicus 18. Philippine Eagle Pithecophaga jefferyi 19. Alagos Curassow Mitu mitu 20. Spix's Macaw Cyanopsitta spixii 21. Madagascar Pochard Aythya innotata 22. The lost and the found 23. Gurney's Pitta Pitta gurneyi 24. Forest Owlet Heteroglaux blewitti 25. Slender-billed Curlew Numenius tenuirostris and Eskimo Curlew N. borealis 26. Rarity and extinction in the future References

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Book SynopsisBirds of Liberia contains distributions, biology and other ornithological information on the birds of this West African country.In geographical terms, Liberia is still regarded as one of the least known areas of Africa. An inventory of its birds was only undertaken for the first time in the 1960s and 1970s. Liberia has the most extensive area of rainforest within the Upper Guinea region of West Africa. In 1980, half the country was covered by primary forest and significant areas of lowland rainforest were only first surveyed after 1981.This book is the result of 15 years of research by the author and includes a complete checklist of the birds of the region. It contains distribution maps for 400 species as well as a wealth of other ornithological information. Fresh insights are given into the impact of forest destruction on the distribution of species.There is also new information on the movement of diurnal migrants and the numbers and ecology of

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Book SynopsisJeff Martin explores the Tawny Owl's natural history in the greatest detail. Where controversy has arisen in the literature, he has put forward all points of view so the reader can make his or her own judgements. There seems nothing concerning the biology of this owl that Jeff has not researched.' - Derek Bunn, author of The Barn Owl The haunting calls of the Tawny Owl can be heard from Scandinavia in the north of its range to North Africa in the south. Most people would consider it to be a common and widespread species throughout Europe, but populations in Britain at least are declining, and we need to understand more about the behaviour and ecology of this magnificent woodland bird if its future is to be secured.Jeff Martin has been studying owls for decades, and in this timely book he combines his personal observationstogether with those of other ornithologists and a comprehensive review of the literature, resulting in some surprising revelations. It was not long ago,

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