Zoology: birds (ornithology) Books
Whittles Publishing A Fieldworker's Guide to the Golden Eagle
Book SynopsisThe Golden Eagle is generally thought to be a well-known and well-documented species. However, much of the available literature is not necessarily in a form that can readily be used in the field. In fact, although much existing information about Golden Eagles has little supporting evidence it is still largely accepted without question. This book addresses this important issue and in doing so the author queries numerous long-held beliefs about Golden Eagles. He suggests that failure to recognize the limitations of the available evidence is not only detrimental to understanding eagle ecology but that it can undermine conservation efforts. The Fieldworker's Guide questions the reliability of existing knowledge and promotes a better understanding of the species through improved fieldwork. With 37 years of active, year-round investigative fieldwork experience of the Golden Eagle, the author has vast knowledge enabling him to shed light on these matters. He has a history of undertaking novel research on post-fledging studies, territories and the impact of changes in land use.In this context he discusses how best to undertake fieldwork to produce objective results, avoiding the influence of expectations and recognizing the many pitfalls into which an unwary observer might stumble. The book objectively reviews all aspects of Golden Eagle ecology, taking examples from many different locations and from site-specific studies in Scotland to compare and contrast the reliability and relevance of the evidence, highlighting the differences between casual and intensive fieldwork. It reviews all the elements of Golden Eagle ecology, from the species status, through the activities and roles of eagles of different gender, age and status, via territories, food and breeding, to habitat preferences, usage and even the influence of weather and observer activity on behavior and observations. It also gives due consideration to the failed and non-breeding elements of the population, topics that are widely ignored despite such eagles forming the bulk of the population for most of the year.To provide a better understanding of what fieldworkers and birdwatchers are likely to encounter, the author reviews the month-by-month activity of all classes of Golden Eagle and the influences that affect how their ecology is understood.Trade Review`...the book is filled with interesting and thought-provoking ideas and very worth reading. The photographs are versatile and a good addition to the book’. Luonnon Tutkija -------------------- `...filled with useful notes and facts... ...it is a thorough and interesting review of the species' conditions at the Scottish breeding grounds...' DOF Nordjylland -------------------- `will appeal to everybody with an interest in raptors, birdwatchers generally and all those with an appreciation of wildlife, the natural world and conservation'. Cumberland and Westmorland Herald -------------------- `This book contains lots of insightful information, gathered skillfully and painstakingly over years of patient fieldwork. ...this book remains a valuable addition to the library of those interested in reading about, or caring our fieldwork on, this magnificent bird'. BTO News -------------------- `...the author has vast knowledge... it will be instantly required reading for anyone undertaking fieldwork' Fatbirder -------------------- `...an amazing study of golden eagles over several decades... this incredibly detailed book... a fantastic book which has increased my knowledge of golden eagles immensely.' Wildlife Detective
£18.99
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Munias and Mannikins
Book SynopsisMunias are widespread throughout the Old World's tropical regions. In their natural habitat, they are birds of the savanna, but they have adapted to a number of different habitats, including areas inhabited by humans. They range in size from the Java sparrow (which is about the size of a common starling) to the diminutive Madagascar mannikin. Their striking plumage makes them popular as cagebirds and they breed readily in captivity. This book covers 43 species of munias and mannikins. The author has recently described one new species and ten new subspecies to science.
£68.63
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Rails: A Guide to Rails, Crakes, Gallinules and
Book SynopsisThis is a guide to rails, a relatively homogenous family of birds spread throughout the world. Most species are solitary and somewhat secretive, and therefore high on the wanted lists of many birders, but the moorhens and coots are generally common and familiar birds of wetlands. A number of species are flightless and confined to small islands, and several are extinct as a result of man and introduced predators.
£999.99
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Wrens, Dippers and Thrashers
Book SynopsisThis is the first comprehensive guide to these closely related families. The book covers all 75 wrens, 34 thrashers and 5 dippers, almost all of which are New World species. The wrens (Troglodytidae) in particular display great diversity, occupying almost every kind of habitat in the Americas. The family probably originates in Central America where the greatest number of species is to be found. The thrashers (Mimidae) include the mockingbirds, catbirds and tremblers. The dippers (Cinclidae) are river specialists although, unusually, they exhibit no obvious features for an aquatic existence.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Introduction Explanation of the Species Accounts Classification and Relationships Conservation Issues Topography Colour Plates Systematic Selection Bibliography Regional Maps
£64.00
BoD - Books on Demand Alle Vögel der Welt 3
Book Synopsis
£999.99
The University of Chicago Press Antipredator Defenses in Birds and Mammals
Book SynopsisAntipredator Defenses in Birds and Mammals will be of interest to both specialists and general readers interested in ecological issues.
£47.50
The University of Chicago Press Hormones Brain and Behavior
Book SynopsisThis is the first volume to integrate information on ways in which the nervous and endocrine systems interact to mediate crucial aspects of reptile behavior. Although the authors pay particular attention to reproductive behavior, from initial recognition and evaluation of potential partners to decisions about reproduction, they also deal with other survival behaviors.Table of Contents1 The Intereaction of Hormones, Brain, and Behavior: An Emerging Discipline in Herpetology, David Crews and Carl Gans 2 Physiological Regulation of Sexual Behavior in Female Reptiles, Joan M. Whittier and Richard R. Tokarz 3 The Physiological Basis of Sexual Behavior in Male Reptiles, Michael C. Moore and Jonathan Lindzey 4 Reptilian Pheromones, Robert T. Mason 5 Endogenous Rhythms, Herbert Underwood 6 Reptilian Coloration and Behavior, William E. Cooper, Jr., and Neil Greenberg 7 Nasal Chemical Senses in Reptiles: Structure and Function, Mimi Halpern
£61.75
The University of Chicago Press Nightingales in Berlin
Book SynopsisRothenberg takes us to Berlin’s urban landscape to discover and engage with one of nature’s most beautiful and celebrated sounds, the nightingale’s song.
£23.00
The University of Chicago Press Moral Entanglements Conserving Birds in Britain
Book Synopsis
£31.00
The University of Chicago Press Extreme Measures The Ecological Energetics of
Book SynopsisProvides a comprehensive account of the energetics of birds and mammals. This title also provides an overview of thermal rates and explains how the basal rate of metabolism drives energy use, especially in extreme environments.Trade Review"This is a fascinating book and one that obviously represents a grand synthesis of a lifetime of data collection by the author. More than ever this type of synthesis is needed if conservation efforts are to move forward." (Terrie M. Williams, University of California, Santa Cruz)"
£38.00
The University of Chicago Press Audubon at Sea The Coastal and Transatlantic
Book SynopsisTrade Review"These excellent selections are a wonderful reminder of why Audubon's writing deserves to be more widely read. Audubon at Sea is a delightful, captivating book, one that ranges to different regions and seasons, and features not only birds but fish, marine mammals, and many passages of interest concerning fishing, hunting, and collecting practices. Irmscher and King's expertise is impressive, and their introductions are helpful, informative, and beautifully written. The notes section is also truly remarkable: extremely well-informed, instructive, and detailed. This is a superb read." -- Michael P. Branch, University of Nevada, Reno, author of "On the Trail of the Jackalope"Table of ContentsForeword by Subhankar Banerjee Sources for the Texts Introduction I. Journal of a Sea Voyage from New Orleans to Liverpool aboard the Delos (1826) II. Ornithological Biography (1831–1839) Southern Waters A Long Calm at Sea The Florida Keys The Florida Keys (Part 2) The Brown Pelican and The Mangrove The Turtlers Black Skimmer or Razor-billed Shearwater Death of a Pirate The Frigate Pelican The Sooty Tern The Wreckers of Florida American Flamingo Wilson’s Plover St John’s River in Florida Mid-Atlantic Waters The American Oyster-Catcher The Fish Hawk or Osprey and The Weak Fish Little Guillemot The Long-billed Curlew Western Waters Black-footed Albatross Gigantic Fulmar New England and Atlantic Canada The Bay of Fundy Common Gannet The Eggers of Labrador The Foolish Guillemot The Great Black-backed Gull The Wandering Shearwater Cod-Fishing The Razor-billed Auk The Common Cormorant The Puffin Great Auk Wilson’s Petrel III. Journal of a Collecting Voyage from Eastport to Labrador aboard the Ripley (1833) Coda Acknowledgments Index
£22.80
Columbia University Press Columbia History of Western Philosophy
Book SynopsisStudies the benefits and costs of group living as illustrated by colonies of the gull-like seabird on salt marshes and sandy beaches of the east coast of North America. Examines such behavior as predator detection and defense, and competition for mates, nesting sites, and food. The observation of 30
£999.99
Indiana University Press The Birds of Indiana
Book Synopsis1. Back in Print Originally published in 1984 and sold over 25,000 copies 2. Provides information on characteristics, behavior, migration patterns, density and location of populations for over 300 species of birds. 3. Illustrations by renowned artist William Zimmerman. 4. A great gift book.Trade Review"This fine book sumptuously illustrated by one of America's premier bird artists, William Zimmerman, is a celebration of the birds that live in the heartland of our continent. Indiana boasts a state list of over 390 species, close to half of the avifauna of North America north of Mexico. . . . Of the 390-plus species on the Indiana list, 165 nest and reproduce in the state. These are portrayed by William Zimmerman's paintings which are artfully designed and meticulously executed in the best tradition of Audubon. This handsome publication is not intended to be a field guide. It goes far beyond that limited scope. Every birdwatcher and birder will treasure it and so will the lover or collector of fine books."—Roger Tory Peterson, American naturalist, ornithologist, artist, and educatorTable of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroductionSpecies AccountsEgg PlateOccurence ChartReference ListList of Sponsors and DonorsIndex
£35.10
University of Texas Press The Albatross and the Fish
Book SynopsisSounding an alarm over the potential extinction of many albatross species, this book encourages individuals, environmental groups, fishery oversight bodies, and governments to create sustainable management practices for whole ocean ecosystems.Table of Contents Foreword by H.R.H. Prince of Wales Acknowledgments Introduction by John Croxall Milestones: Albatross Encounters and Concerns Chapter One. Storytelling Part I: The Albatross Chapter Two. Plunder Chapter Three. Science Chapter Four. Connections Chapter Five. Home Chapter Six. Family Part II: Crossings Chapter Seven. Migration Chapter Eight. Globalization Chapter Nine. Commons Part III: Birds and Fish Chapter Ten. Fish Chapter Eleven. Management Chapter Twelve. Crisis Chapter Thirteen. Bycatch Part IV: Sea Change Chapter Fourteen. Links Chapter Fifteen. Engineering Chapter Sixteen. Turning Point Part V: Agents of Change Chapter Seventeen. Fishers Chapter Eighteen. Governments Chapter Nineteen. Nongovernmentals Chapter Twenty. Trade Chapter Twenty-one. Celebrities Chapter Twenty-two. Capstone Conclusion. Hope Appendix: CCAMLR and Seabird Mortality Notes Bibliography Index
£22.79
University of Texas Press The Birds of South America
Book SynopsisA major reference work on South American birds.Table of Contents Preface Acknowledgments Abbreviations Plan of the Book Migration Conservation The Plates The Suboscines, Order Passeriformes Ovenbirds: Furnariinae Woodcreepers: Dendrocolaptinae Typical Antbirds: Thamnophilidae Ground Antbirds: Formicariidae Gnateaters: Conopophagidae Tapaculos: Rhinocryptidae Tyrant Flycatchers: Tyranninae Manakins: Piprinae Cotingas: Cotinginae Bibliography Index to English Names Index to Scientific Names
£67.15
Yale University Press Conservation Biology of Hawaiian Forest Birds
Book SynopsisHawaii's forest bird community is the most insular and most endangered in the world and serves as a case study for threatened species globally. Ten have disappeared, nine are critically endangered, and even common species are in decline. This book describes the research and conservation efforts to save Hawaii's forest birds.Trade Review“This book is at once an encyclopedia chronicling a global-scale tragedy, and a masterpiece call-to-arms for saving and restoring what remains of the unique and beautiful Hawaiian avifauna. Thane Pratt and coeditors are outstanding biologists and conservation heroes. For this compendium they assembled the entire who's who of experts on Hawaiian birds and conservation, and they detail the complicated historical, cultural, biological, political, and even ethical aspects of the plight of Hawaiian forest birds. From habitat destruction and agricultural monocultures to alien mammals and a pair of wicked, introduced diseases, Hawaiian birds have steadily succumbed to the full litany of human environmental scourges. The authors make a compelling case that significant conservation investment in Hawaii is vastly overdue, for we still can save the precious few species that remain.”—John W. Fitzpatrick, Ph.D., Director, Cornell Lab of Ornithology; member, 'Alala Recovery Team -- John W. Fitzpatrick“I have had the pleasure of learning about Hawaiian birds from Thane Pratt for over fifty years. With the publication of this book, the opportunity to take advantage of his passion for and mastery of the subject is open to everyone.”—Peter Vitousek, Stanford University -- Peter Vitousek“Islands are rife with conservation drama and there is no better example than Hawaii. . . .this book is a first for conservation biology of islands in general, and has all the earmarks of a classic. . . . A cornerstone for any nature, conservation and science bookshelf.”—Thomas E. Lovejoy, president of the Heinz Center for Science, Economics, and the Environment and biodiversity adviser for the World Bank and the United Nations Foundation -- Thomas E. Lovejoy“An important book about one of the world’s most imperiled avifauna, provided by those who have devoted their lives to understanding and preserving Hawaii’s natural heritage. Never before has so much original research on so many aspects of extinction crisis been brought together.”—John M. Marzluff, author of In the Company of Crows and Ravens -- John M. Marzluff“This is one of the best bird books that I’ve read in recent years.”—David W. Steadman, The Condor * The Condor *
£76.00
The University of Michigan Press The Kirtlands Warbler
Book Synopsis
£16.95
University of California Press Mesozoic Birds Above the Heads of Dinosaurs
Book SynopsisThis study of mesozoic birds covers a wide range of topics, including discussions of avian origins, the fossil record of feathers and footprints, bone histology, and locomotor evolution. Controversial taxa such as Protoavis, Caudipteryx, and Mononykus receive special treatment.Trade Review"Mesozoic Birds is the first book to bring together world-renowned specialists on fossil birds and their importance to avian origins and, more importantly, it stresses a unified approach (cladistics) and presents the most anatomically detailed analyses available to date. No other study or collection of studies has ever done so much. How could the project not be welcomed by its audience of paleontologists, ornithologists, and evolutionary biologists!"-David Weishampel, editor of The DinosauriaTable of ContentsPreface Part I: The Archosaurian Heritage of Birds 1. The Debate on Avian Ancestry: Phylogeny, Function, and Fossils LAWRENCE M. WITMER 2. Cladistic Approaches to the Relationships of Birds to Other Theropod Dinosaurs JAMES M. CLARK, MARK A. NORELL, AND PETER J. MAKOVICKY Part II: Taxa of Controversial Status 3. The Enigmatic Birdlike Dinosaur Avimimus portentosus: Comments and a Pictorial Atlas PATRICIA VICKERS-RICH, LUIS M. CHIAPPE, AND SERGEI KURZANOV 4. The Cretaceous, Short-Armed Alvarezsauridae: Mononykus and Its Kin LUIS M. CHIAPPE, MARK A. NORELL, AND JAMES M. CLARK 5. Alvarezsaurid Relationships Reconsidered FERNANDO E. NOVAS AND DIEGO POL Part III: The Mesozoic Aviary: Anatomy and Systematics 6. Archaeopterygidae (Upper Jurassic of Germany) ANDRZEJ ELZANOWSKI 7. The Discovery and Study of Mesozoic Birds in China ZHOU ZHONGHE AND HOU LIANHAI 8. Sinornis santensis (Aves: Enantiornithes) from the Early Cretaceous of Northeastern China PAUL C. SERENO, RAO CHENGGANG, AND LI JIANJUN 9. The Birds from the Lower Cretaceous of Las Hoyas (Province of Cuenca, Spain) JOSE L. SANZ, BERNARDINO P. PEREZ-MORENO, LUIS M. CHIAPPE, AND ANGELA D. BUSCALIONI 10. Noguerornis gonzalezi (Aves) from the Early Cretaceous of Spain LUIS M. CHIAPPE AND ANTONIO LACASA-RUIZ 11. Skeletal Morphology and Systematics of the Cretaceous Euenantiornithes (Ornithothoraces: Enantiornithes) LUIS M. CHIAPPE AND CYRIL A. WALKER 12. Vorona berivotrensis, a Primitive Bird from the Late Cretaceous of Madagascar CATHERINE A. FORSTER, LUIS M. CHIAPPE, DAVID W. KRAUSE, AND SCOTT D. SAMPSON 13. Osteology of the Flightless Patagopteryx deferrariisi from the Late Cretaceous of Patagonia (Argentina) LUIS M. CHIAPPE 14. Enaliornis, an Early Cretaceous Hesperornithiform Bird from England, with Comments on other Hesperornithiformes PETER M. GALTON AND LARRY D. MARTIN 15. The Mesozoic Radiation of Neornithes SYLVIA HOPE 16. A Review of Avian Mesozoic Fossil Feathers ALEXANDER W. A. KELLNER 17. The Track Record of Mesozoic Birds and Pterosaurs: An Ichnological and Paleoecological Perspective MARTIN G. LOCKLEY AND EMMA C. RAINFORTH Part IV: Functional Morphology and Evolution 18. Bone Microstructure of Early Birds ANUSUYA CHINSAMY 19. Locomotor Evolution on the Line to Modern Birds STEPHEN M. GATESY 20. Basal Bird Phylogeny: Problems and Solutions LUIS M. CHIAPPE Contributors Index
£70.40
University of California Press Shorebird Ecology Conservation and Management
Book SynopsisShorebirds are model organisms for illustrating the principles of ecology and excellent subjects for research. This title explores the ecology, conservation, and management of these birds. It contains chapters which examine phylogenetic relationships between shorebirds and other birds, and cover shorebird morphology, anatomy, and physiology.Trade Review"This comprehensive text explores the ecology, conservation, and management of these fascinating birds." The Guardian "This excellent work should be on the shelf of anyone interested in shorebirds... it is an extremely valuable source of information." -- Tamas Szekely Ibis "A fine book." Choice "[This book] will fill an important need for information on a group of birds whose existence is being threatened... Recommended." Choice "A pleasure to read and a real asset to a biologist's bookshelf; both as a reference and as a source of inspiration." -- Golo Maurer Emu-Austral Ornithology "It is not often that one picks up a book and realizes he ... has been missing it for years without realizing it." -- David B. Lank The CondorTable of ContentsPreface and Acknowledgments Part I Evolutionary Relationships, Anatomy and Morphology, and Breeding Biology 1 INTRODUCTION Diversity and Distribution Varied Ecomorphology Diverse Social Systems Globe- Trotting Migrants Wetland Dependence Conservation and Management Rationale for and Organization of this book 2 SYSTEMATICS, PHYLOGENY, AND PHYLOGEOGRAPHY Fossil History A Brief History of Shorebird Systematics Phylogeography Hybridization in Shorebirds Biogeography and Communities Conservation Implications 3 MORPHOLOGY, ANATOMY, AND PHYSIOLOGY Skeletal and Muscle System Integumentary System Sensory Apparatus, Foraging, and Digestion Digestive System Energetics and Thermoregulation Osmoregulation Reproductive System Conservation Implications 4 MATING SYSTEMS Defining a Mating System The Role of Ecological Factors Social versus Gene tic Relationships Parental Care Patterns Evolution of Polyandry Variance in Reproductive Success Size Dimorphism Sex Ratios Conservation Implications 5 BREEDING BIOLOGY Philopatry, Breeding Site Fidelity, and Dispersal Spring Arrival Schedules Courtship Behavior Breeding Densities Selection of a Breeding Site Eggs Incubation Hatching Chick Growth and Development Conservation Implications Part II Nonbreeding Ecology and Demography 6 MIGRATION Origins and Evolution Migration Strategies Physiology of Migration Hop, Skip, and Jump Populations and Flyways Conservation Implications 7 FORAGING ECOL OGY AND HABITAT USE Diets Foraging Maneuvers and Habitat Use Acquiring Energy Food Availability Individual Variation Conservation Implications 8 SHOREBIRDS AS PREDATORS Shorebird Predators and Their Prey Predicting Wetland Use Competition and Food Limitation Prey Reduction Community Ecology Conservation Implications 9 SPATIAL ECOLOGY AND WINTER SOCIAL ORGANIZATION Quantifying Spatial Distributions A Range of Social Organization Roosts Conservation Implications 10 POPULATION BIOLOGY Demography Survival Productivity Population Sizes and Trends Monitoring Programs Limiting Factors Human Impacts Conservation Implications Part III Management and Conservation 11 HABITAT CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT Decision Making in Wildlife Management Wetland Conservation Conservation Planning and Implementation Wetland Management Agricultural Lands Salt Ponds Sandy, Ocean- Fronting Beaches Conservation Implications 12 MANAGING PREDATORS Ethical Considerations and Decision Making Do Predators Limit Shorebird Populations? Methods of Control Conservation Implications 13 MANAGING HUMAN DISTURBANCE Definitions of Human Disturbance Characterizing Disturbance Responses to Disturbance Managing Disturbance Conservation Implications 14 EDUCATION AND OUTREACH Professional Groups Environmental Education Ecotourism and Birding Festivals Books and Online Resources Conservation Implications Appendix Index
£56.80
University of California Press Birds of the Sierra Nevada
Book SynopsisPresents information on the natural histories of birds of the Sierra Nevada, the origins of their names, the habitats they prefer, how they communicate and interact with one another, their relative abundance, and where they occur within the region.Trade Review"Presents the most up-to-date information available about the natural histories of birds of the Sierra Nevada." The Union "[This] book will deepen the experience of visits to the range for serious ornithologists and casual hikers alike." BirdWatching "A thorough, accessible text embracing a massive and diverse region of California... [The book] distills wisdom from many people who love both the avifauna and the high country and will inspire many of us to follow in their tracks." -- Claire Peaslee West Marin County "A book like Birds of the Sierra Nevada reaffirms your faith in how birding can dovetail with conservation, and in what birding can do for our collective sense of meaningful communion with nature." Birding MagazineTable of ContentsForeword Preface Acknowledgments INTRODUCTION ECOLOGICAL ZONES AND BIRD HABITATS RECENT TRENDS IN SIERRA BIRD POPULATIONS AND RANGES UNANSWERED QUESTIONS ABOUT SIERRA BIRDS BIRD CONSERVATION IN THE SIERRA Family and Species Accounts WATERFOWL • Anatidae QUAIL • Odontophoridae FOWL-LIKE BIRDS • Phasianidae LOONS • Gaviidae GREBES • Podicipedidae CORMORANTS • Phalacrocoracidae PELICANS • Pelecanidae HERONS AND RELATIVES • Ardeidae IBIS • Threskiornithidae NEW WORLD VULTURES • Cathartidae OSPREY • Pandionidae HAWKS AND RELATIVES • Accipitridae FALCONS • Falconidae RAILS AND RELATIVES • Rallidae CRANES • Gruidae PLOVERS • Charadriidae STILTS AND AVOCETS • Recurvirostridae SANDPIPERS AND RELATIVES • Scolopacidae GULLS AND TERNS • Laridae PIGEONS AND DOVES • Columbidae CUCKOOS AND ROADRUNNERS • Cuculidae BARN OWL • Tytonidae TYPICAL OWLS • Strigidae NIGHTHAWKS AND RELATIVES • Caprimulgidae SWIFTS • Apodidae HUMMINGBIRDS • Trochilidae KINGFISHERS • Alcedinidae WOODPECKERS • Picidae TYRANT FLYCATCHERS • Tyrannidae SHRIKES • Laniidae VIREOS • Vireonidae JAYS AND RELATIVES • Corvidae LARKS • Alaudidae SWALLOWS • Hirundinidae CHICKADEES AND TITMICE • Paridae VERDIN • Remizidae BUSHTIT • Aegithalidae NUTHATCHES • Sittidae CREEPERS • Certhiidae WRENS • Troglodytidae GNATCATCHERS • Polioptilidae DIPPERS • Cinclidae KINGLETS • Regulidae WRENTIT • Sylviidae THRUSHES AND RELATIVES • Turdidae MOCKINGBIRDS AND THRASHERS • Mimidae STARLINGS • Sturnidae PIPITS • Motacillidae WAXWINGS • Bombycillidae SILKY FLYCATCHERS • Ptilogonatidae WOOD-WARBLERS • Parulidae SPARROWS AND RELATIVES • Emberizidae GROSBEAKS AND RELATIVES • Cardinalidae BLACKBIRDS AND RELATIVES • Icteridae FINCHES AND RELATIVES • Fringillidae OLD WORLD SPARROWS • Passeridae Appendices 1 Checklist of Sierra Birds 2 Rare, Casual, and Accidental Birds of the Sierra Nevada 3 Methods Used to Determine Population Trends 4 Common and Scientific Names of Plant Species Glossary Bibliography Index of Common Names Index of Scientific Names About the Authors and Artist
£999.99
University of California Press Field Guide to Birds of the Northern California
Book SynopsisThe Northern California coast - from Monterey County to the Oregon border - is home to some of the richest avian habitats on the North American continent. This book provides a comprehensive ecological overview of this extensive and diverse region.Trade Review"A handy, user-friendly reference ... Produced with real knowledge, care and affection, this guide serves as a wonderful companion." -- Laura Herrell American Reference Books Annual (ARBA)Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments INTRODUCTION Boundaries Climate Habitats Taxonomy: Subspecies, Species, and Superspecies Plumage of Birds Dimorphism and Monomorphism Seasons and Migration Ethics of Birding FAMILY AND SPECIES ACCOUNTS Ducks, Geese, and Swans Loons Grebes Albatross Shearwaters and Fulmars Storm-Petrels Cormorants and Pelicans Herons, Egrets, Bitterns, and Ibis Vultures, Ospreys, Kites, Eagles, and Hawks Rails, Gallinules, and Coots Shorebirds Skuas and Jaegers Alcids Gulls and Terns Gallinaceous Birds Pigeons and Doves Owls Swifts Kingfishers Woodpeckers Falcons Perching Birds (Passerines) BIRDING OPPORTUNITIES AND ROADSIDE NATURE CENTERS Seasonal Occurrence Charts Glossary References Index
£18.90
Princeton University Press A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors
Book SynopsisWhether soaring or perched, diurnal birds of prey often present challenging identification problems for the bird enthusiast. This is a photographic guide to North American diurnal birds of prey. It includes various species, common and rare. It contains 365 photographs, each with an explanatory caption and supporting text.Trade Review"I highly recommend this useful guide."--Keith L. Bildstein, Auk "No one is better at the variabilities of raptor identification than this team of two... The excellent photographs are clear and well chosen... If you take your hawk-watching seriously, buy it."--Charles E. Keller, Indiana Audubon Quarterly "The 377 colour photographs are without exception truly stunning... The plates are conveniently placed next to the relevant species account and show all plumage, both in flight and perched... The authors are to be applauded for their expertise, while not forgetting the problems of the beginner, making this book ideal for both the novice and the profession: there is something new for everyone."--Neil Hayward, Ibis "As a hawk watcher of long standing, I have eagerly awaited this utilitarian partner to ... Hawks. First, because as a reference tool, it will be invaluable to serious hawk watchers. The information it contains is age class and subspecies specific; the format is straight forward; and the material is easily referenced... This new guide, with its employment of photos and integrated concern for the problems presented by lookalike species, will also serve the novice, saving them much time, effort, embarrassment, and ... Frustration! On a global scale, there are few living human beings who know more about birds of prey than William S. Clark and none, to my mind, who know more about their identification. On the more focused subject of North America's diurnal raptors, he has few peers ... but one of them is Brian K. Wheeler, whose photos dominate this book... There are many nature photographers who specialize in capturing birds of prey on film. Few are as good as Wheeler and some say none."--Pete Dunn, Director, Natural History Information, New Jersey Audubon Society "Are you having difficulty unraveling the mysteries of identifying birds of prey? If you are baffled by seemingly similar silhouettes of birds of prey, not to mention plumage variations, then A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors ... is the perfect field guide for you. With this guide in hand, you will be ahead of other birders at hawkwatching hotspots."--Wildbird "I recommend that you buy two copies, one for home and one for your vehicle."--Canadian Field Naturalist "This book will change your mind about the importance of photographic guides. You will want to use this guide. Here you are treated to stunning photographs that depicts all the field marks that are mentioned in an informative text... This is one outstanding effort and it is a genuine pleasure to look through this book. Brian Wheeler and Bill Clark are the continent's leading authorities on the field identification of diurnal birds of prey. As such, any work that they produce should be taken seriously. They have consistently produced identification publications that have changed the entire hawkwatching world in a significant and positive manner. This field guide is no exception. It offers a novel approach to the identification of hawks in a wonderfully pleasurable environment. Bravo!"--HMANA Migration Studies "For the raptor enthusiast or North American birder, this is an essential purchase... The authors and publishers have done their work well."--Paul Doherty, Birding World "The authors have done raptor aficionados a great service by greatly reducing the problems associated with this often difficult-to-identify group of birds."--Peter H. Bloom, Journal of Raptor Research "This excellent book is a must-buy for anyone interested in improving their raptor ID skills. I believe it is well worth the price for the high-quality photos alone, but careful review of the test also reveals a wealth of state-of-the-art raptor ID tips that have been field tested by the authors."--Ned Harris, Birding "Never have I seen a photograph better capture the essence of a birds appearance in flight than the wonderful color photograph of a rough-legged hawk gracing the cover of A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors... This book ... is filled with such images of birds of prey. The pictures are carefully picked, not just for the aesthetic quality that is virtually inevitable for any good photographs of raptors, but to greatly assist birders in the identification of this sometimes bewildering array of birds. It's a great gift for naturalists."--Barry Kent Mackay, Toronto StarTable of ContentsForward by Pete Dunne vii Acknowledgments ix Photo Credits xi Introduction xiii Glossary and Anatomy xv Vultures 1 Turkey Vulture 1 Black Vulture 5 California Condor 7 Osprey 9 Kites 12 Hook-billed Kite 12 Swallow-tailed Kite 15 Snail Kite 20 Mississippi Kite 23 Northern Harrier 28 Accipiters 32 Sharp-shinned haek 32 Cooper's hawk 35 Northern Goshawk 38 Buteonines 42 Common Black Hawk 42 Harris' hawk 42 Gray Hawk 45 Red-shouldered Hawk 49 Broad-winged Hawk 56 Short-tailed Hawk 60 Swainsin's Hawk 63 White-tailed Hawk 73 Zoned-tailed hawk 79 Red-tailed Hawk 82 Ferruginous Hawk 100 Rough-legged hawk 108 Eagles 116 Bald Eagle 116 Golden eagle 123 Crested Caracara 127 Falcons 130 American Kestrel 130 Aplomado Falcon 133 Merlin 136 Prairie Falcon 141 Gyrfalcon 145 Peregrine 149 Vagrants 154 Crane Hawk 154 White-tailed Eagle 154 Stellar's Sea Eagle 155 Roadside hawk 159 Red-backed Buzzard 161 Hawiian hawk 162 Collared Forest-Falcon 163 Common Kestrel 164 Northern Hobby 166 Raptor identification problems 168 Index 197
£25.20
Princeton University Press Hawks from Every Angle
Book SynopsisOffers a different approach that looks at the birds from various angles, compares and contrasts similar species, and provides the pictures (and words) needed for identification in the field. This book pinpoints identification traits for each species from the various angles that they are seen.Trade Review"Hawks from Every Angle is a major advance in our knowledge of identifying raptors in flight and as such needs to be in the library (and field pack) of every serious raptor biologist, hawk watcher, and birder going afield in North America."--Donald S. Heintzelman,International Hawkwatcher "Perhaps no one knows the intricacies of raptor identification better than Jerry Liguori... There is no doubt that this book will advance the identification of raptors, and that every hawkwatcher will want to own this great new book."--Dan R. Kunkle, Wildlife Activist "This book does a splendid job of educating its readers as to the specific characteristics the experts use to make their identifications... [T]he book's strength is its numerous crisp diagnostic photographs that, if diligently studied, should make readers competent to correctly identify virtually any hawk species. This book is a fine example of the sophistication of field identification in the study of birds."--Choice "I was a bit skeptical about the value of a photo guide, but Liguori, a raptor conservation biologist and excellent photographer, sweeps any doubts away. The book's 371 images, nearly all in color, of hawks from the front, side, below, and above, provide a new perspective on the 19 most common North American species. Read this handy guide and you'll never again have to say, 'All I know is it was a buteo.' This book definitely lives up to its title."--Val Cunningham, Birding Business News "Hawks from Every Angle takes advantage of recent developments in digital photography and computer enhancement to offer a fresh approach to identifying raptors--as the titles promises--from every angle: head on, above, below, sideways, and from the rear...The guide's succinct but flowing text includes introductory material on light conditions, molt aberrant plumages, migration sites, weather, optics for hawk watching, and photography...As good as the text is, the guide's 339 color photographs are even better. Showing the birds as they actually appear in the field, the photos are its hear and soul."--Keith L. Bildstein, Birder's WorldTable of Contents*Frontmatter, pg. i*Contents, pg. vii*Foreword, pg. ix*Preface, pg. xi*Introduction, pg. 1*Accipiters, pg. 15*Northern Harrier (Circus Cyaneus), pg. 31*Buteos, pg. 41*Falcons, pg. 85*Vultures, Osprey, Eagles, pg. 107*Bibliography, pg. 131*Index, pg. 132
£16.19
Princeton University Press Physiological Adaptations for Breeding in Birds
Book SynopsisOffers comprehensive account of research on avian reproduction. This book investigates the physiological, metabolic, energetic, and hormonal mechanisms that underpin individual variation in the key female-specific reproductive traits and the trade-offs between these traits that determine variation in fitness.Trade Review"This important book comes from one of the leaders in the field of reproductive physiology. It will be of value to anyone interested in the physiology of birds from an evolutionary perspective."--Joseph B. Williams, Ohio State University "With exceptional writing, this timely and well-researched book thoroughly synthesizes what is known about the reproduction of birds. It will be required reading for students of the field for a long time to come."--Ignacio Moore, Virginia Tech "The book is clearly written, if highly technical, and is extremely detailed and painstakingly referenced. Those interested in reproductive biology will find it an invaluable resource."--Choice "[T]his book provides an engaging and wide-ranging discussion of physiological mechanisms of life-history traits, all the more invaluable in that no other work covers this subject in such detail."--Sacha Haywood, Ibis "I am considering buying six copies of Physiological Adaptations for Breeding in Birds--one for each of my graduate students and one for my post-doc--for their forthcoming birthdays. That way they will all have their copies for next fall's discussion class, 'Topics in physiology,' when we will read and discuss Tony Williams' excellent contribution to the field."--Stephan J. Schoech, EcologyTable of ContentsIllustrations ix Abbreviations xv Acknowledgments xvii Chapter 1. Introduction 1 1.1. Structure of the chapters 1 1.2. A primer on reproduction in female birds 3 1.3. Individual variation 4 1.4. What is not in this book? 5 1.5. Avian reproduction in a changing world 6 Chapter 2. The Hormonal and Physiological Control of Egg Production 8 2.1. Overview of the female reproductive system 9 2.1.1. Pre-vitellogenic follicle development 11 2.1.2. Rapid follicle growth (RFG) or rapid yolk development (RYD) 14 2.1.3. Vitellogenesis and lipoprotein metabolism 18 2.1.4. Mechanisms of receptor-mediated yolk uptake 23 2.2. Oviduct structure and function 25 2.3. Regulation of the timing of egg-laying (oviposition) 28 2.3.1. Follicle atresia and laying skips 32 2.4. Hormonal control of ovarian and oviduct function 33 2.4.1. The ovary 34 2.4.2. The oviduct 39 2.5. Hypothalamic and pituitary regulation of gonadal function 40 2.6. Hormonal integration of environmental information 43 2.6.1. Photoperiodic control of gonadal function 44 2.6.2. Supplemental, non-photoperiodic cues and ovarian function 48 2.7. Future research questions 50 Chapter 3. Timing of Breeding 52 3.1. Early-season events are critical in determining timing of breeding 54 3.2. Fitness consequences of timing decisions 56 3.3. Selection on timing of breeding 60 3.4. Constraint, individual optimization, and the search for mechanism 64 3.5. Sex-specific response mechanisms for timing of breeding 66 3.6. Physiological mechanisms associated with photoperiod (day length) as a proximate factor 71 3.6.1. Individual variation in photoperiodic response 72 3.6.2. Where would sex-specific photoperiodic response mechanisms reside? 76 3.7. Physiological mechanisms associated with temperature as a proximate factor 78 3.7.1. Temperature as a long-term "information" cue 78 3.7.2. Correlates of temperature as information cues 82 3.7.3. Possible "direct" effects of temperature on timing 83 3.7.4. Where would temperature response mechanisms reside? 87 3.8. Physiological mechanisms associated with food availability as a "proximate" factor 88 3.8.1. Argument 1: Food availability is a constraint because supplemental food advances the timing of laying 89 3.8.2. Argument 2: Food availability must be a constraint because egg production is energetically expensive 90 3.8.3. Argument 3: Food availability is a constraint because pre-breeding "body condition" determines laying date 91 3.8.4. Where would food (resource) response mechanisms reside? 92 3.9. Conclusion 97 3.10. Future research questions 99 Chapter 4. Egg Size and Egg Quality 100 4.1. Individual variation in egg size 100 4.2. Fitness consequences of variation in egg size 106 4.2.1. Egg-size-clutch- size trade-offs and fecundity costs of large egg size 113 4.3. Selection on egg size 117 4.4. Variation in egg composition or egg quality 118 4.4.1. Egg macronutrient composition 118 4.4.2. Yolk hormones 121 4.4.3. Egg immunoglobulins and antimicrobial proteins 127 4.4.4. Egg antioxidants 130 4.5. Physiological mechanisms underlying individual variation in egg size and egg quality 133 4.5.1. Mechanisms regulating egg size and egg-size- dependent egg quality 133 4.5.2. Mechanisms underlying egg-size-independent variation in egg quality 143 4.6. Variation in the primary sex ratio and sex-specific follicle development 146 4.7. Extreme flexibility in reproductive investment: The house finch 150 4.8. Conclusions 151 4.9. Future research questions 153 Chapter 5. Clutch Size 155 5.1. Individual variation in clutch size and clutch number 155 5.2. Why does clutch size vary among individuals? 160 5.2.1. Chick-rearing ability and individual optimization of clutch size 161 5.2.2. Nest predation and clutch size 165 5.2.3. Embryo viability, incubation capacity, and clutch size 167 5.2.4. Constraints on egg production 170 5.3. Selection on clutch size 172 5.4. Physiological mechanisms of clutch-size determination 175 5.4.1. Determinate versus indeterminate laying 176 5.4.2. A general mechanistic model for control of clutch size in birds 177 5.4.3. Potential mechanisms for individual and date-independent variation in clutch size 185 5.4.5. Proximate constraints on clutch size: food availability and nutrient reserves 187 5.5. Conclusion 194 5.6. Future research questions 196 Chapter 6. Parental Care: Incubation and Chick-Rearing 198 6.1. Comparative aspects of variation in parental care 198 6.2. Individual variation in parental care 201 6.2.1. Incubation 201 6.2.2. Chick-rearing 204 6.3. Fitness consequences of individual variation in parental care 207 6.3.1. Incubation effort, constancy, and duration 208 6.3.2. Short-term effects of incubation effort 209 6.3.3. Long-term effects of incubation effort 210 6.3.4. Chick-rearing, provisioning effort, and nestling productivity 212 6.3.5. Short-term effects of variation in chick-rearing effort 213 6.3.6. Long-term effects of variation in chick-rearing effort 214 6.4. Physiological mechanisms underlying individual variation in parental care 217 6.4.1. Energetic costs of incubation 220 6.4.2. Energetic demands of chick-rearing 224 6.4.3. Nutritional demands of incubation and chick-rearing 224 6.4.4. Are there resource-allocation trade-offs during parental care? 228 6.5. Hormonal mechanisms underlying individual variation in parental care 231 6.5.1. Prolactin and parental care 232 6.5.2. Prolactin and individual variation in parental care 235 6.5.3. Corticosterone and breeding failure 237 6.5.4. Corticosterone and individual variation in parental care 238 6.6. Conclusions 243 6.7. Future research questions 245 Chapter 7. Trade-Offs and Carry-Over Effects 247 7.1. Carry-over effects between winter, the pre-breeding period, and reproduction 249 7.2. Costs of reproduction 251 7.3. Carry-over effects between reproduction and post-breeding life stages 254 7.3.1. Post-fledging parental care 254 7.3.2. Breeding-molt overlap 255 7.4. Physiological mechanisms underlying trade-offs and carry-over effects 260 7.5. Resources and resource-allocation mechanisms 263 7.6. Mechanisms arising from direct physiological or hormonal "conflict" between overlapping functions 268 7.7. "Integrated" physiological mechanisms and individual quality 273 7.7.1. Stress, allostasis, and reactive scope 274 7.7.2. Oxidative stress 277 7.7.3. Oxygen-transport systems, hematology, and anemia 281 7.8. Conclusion 290 7.9. Future research questions 291 Chapter 8. Conclusions 293 Bibliography 299 Index 361
£69.70
Princeton University Press Gulls Simplified
Book SynopsisTrade Review"One of American Birding Podcast's Best Bird Books of 2018 (Nate Swick)""One of British Birds' Best Bird Books of 2019""This is probably the closest thing to a Gulling for Dummies there is."---Jennie Erin Smith, Wall Street Journal"Gulls Simplified is an accessible, informative, and even humorous guide to identifying these wide-ranging, wily birds."---The Editors, Audubon"This clearly-written and beautifully-illustrated book is a must-have for all birders, presenting a simplified method for identifying all those confusing gull species of North America." * GrrlScientist *"In a birding world that celebrates identification, there are surprisingly few articles and books on gull identification. So, we need to lift a glass to 2018, a year that has given us Gulls of the World: A Photographic Field Guide by Klaus Malling Olsen and Gulls Simplified: A Comparative Approach to Identification by Pete Dunne and Kevin T. Karlson. . . . [T]he bar here is high, there are expectations of excellent writing, high-quality photographs, a friendly yet educational approach, and a high level of expertise. . . . And, yes, they succeed on all points."---Donna Schulman, 10,000 Birds Book Review"These images teamed with the friendly style of writing make you want to read and study everycorner of this book, every paragraph, every caption and to top off the enjoyment – a quiz! Oh yes,this book has a photographic quiz at the back, and it is great fun – really!"---Sarah Harris, British Trust for Ornithology"The overall design of the book is excellent and the photographs are the best collection I’ve seen. . . . The combination of simple approach, brilliant photos and the readable style encourages all birders to dip their toes into the wonderful world of gulls!"---Dawn Balmer, British Birds"[This book may] finally [get] you into gulls."---John Miles, Birdwatching Magazine
£19.00
Princeton University Press Birds in Winter
Book SynopsisPasquier describes the season's distinct conservation challenges for birds that winter where they have bred and for migrants to distant regions. Filled with elegant line drawings, the text describes how winter influences the lives of birds from the poles to the equator.Trade Review"The material is well organised with a sensible, progressive arrangement of chapters, plenty of subheadings and a useful summary to round off each section. The text is pitched roughly at the level of a ‘New Naturalist’ volume, bridging the gap between professional ornithologist and interested amateur. . . . [An] accessible and useful reference."---Ian Carter, British Birds"New facts on every page!"---John Miles, Birdwatching Magazine"This book is as broad ranging as it is deeply informative. . . . You cannot read this one without learning a great deal and, despite the author’s undoubted expertise the touch is light enough to make it an accessible read too."---Bo Beolens, Fat Birder"[Birds in Winter] is assiduously underpinned with scientific references, but at the same time takes the reader on an accessible and fascinating tour."---Paul Nicholson, The London Free Press"[A] highly informative, detail-packed, research-based description of bird behavior."---Donna Lynn Schulman, 10,000 Birds"[The] topic . . . is well served by the author who clearly demonstrates that it genuinely deserves a whole book, and that it is not off-beat at all."---Anthony P. Payne, Glasgow Naturalist"A . . . welcome publication on a previously neglected topic. I found it a tremendous compilation of ideas and facts about wintering birds and I think it deserves to be very widely read."---Tony Gaston, The Canadian Field Naturalist"An admirable treasure trove and summation of what is known about wintering birds for all biologists, climatologists, birders, ecologists, environmentalists, and conservationists." * Choice *"The author has put together an impressive account of a bird’s year. . . . A novel approach to the ornithological literature and an instructive read."---Christopher Perrins, IBIS Book Reviews"We owe the author a debt of gratitude for his thorough and earnest overview of the “other” half of the lives of birds. I highly recommend this book for its shift in perspective."---P.A. Bednekoff, Ornithology
£22.50
Princeton University Press What Is a Bird
Book SynopsisTrade Review"This welcoming compendium is part coffee-table book and part deep dive into the science of ornithology—the team of biologist-authors, edited by biology professor Williams, elucidates all things bird."---Andrea Gawrylewski, Scientific American"A fascinating encyclopaedic look at bird life, this lavishly illustrated book written by scientists explores everything from their anatomy and morphology to behavioural patterns of ecology. In fact, anything you have ever wondered about the avian world is nestled in these pages. . . . Birds, beaks and feathers never looked so wondrous."---Elizabeth Fitzherbert,, The Lady"This is a book which quite literally tells you everything you wanted to know about birds. . . . The photos are breathtaking, and the way the information is passed on to you, as potentially a beginner from an experienced field worker, is excellent."---John Miles, Birdwatching Magazine"Dipping into the book, you’ll discover fascinating facts about a wide range of topics . . . soon you may find yourself reading straight through and learning a great deal about ornithology."---Flora Taylor, American Scientist"Whether you are a veteran ornithologist, a fledgling student of birds, a newly hatched bird watcher or an enthusiastic citizen scientist, this must-read book has something to offer you. . . . But beyond that, this book may help more people to better understand birds and motivate them to actively support avian conservation efforts so our children and grandchildren can be inspired by their beauty and diversity just as we are."---Devorah Bennu, Forbes"This is a must-have for birders and naturalists."---Elizabeth Konkel, Seattle Book Review"This is a top book."---Chris Packham, Self-Isolating Bird Club"This is a sumptuously – one might almost say seductively – produced and illustrated compendium of birds."---Tim Birkhead, British Birds"This is an impressive work from every standpoint, . . . The pictures alone make it worthwhile!"---David Gascoigne, Travels with Birds"It doesn’t really feel like a book — it feels more like a museum. It’s as if you walk through the different rooms, see the exhibits, and read a bit about it without feeling any pressure. It feels relaxing and absorbing."---Mihai Andrei, ZME Science"[A] large, sumptuously illustrated book . . . . it’s all here from down to digestion, migration to magnetic sense… everything you need, want to know or love about birds."---Bo Beolens, Fat Birder"What Is a Bird? canbe usedbothas adefinitive textbook in college-level classrooms, as a reference on acareer scientist’s bookshelf, or as a beautiful gift for that young, eager, precollege child in the familywho has their eyes set on watching and, hopefully, studying birds as they grow up."---Mark E. Hauber, The Quarterly Review of Biology"A wonderful collection of small essays on a huge range of topics presenting up-to-date scientific knowledge on birds written in an accessible style to a lay audience."---Gehan De Silva Wijeyeratne, London Naturalist"This is a stunning compendium of knowledge covering just about every aspect of a bird’s life. Successfully addressing the title, this book introduces us to an impressive breadth of factual information about an animal group that is astonishingly diverse and that has successfully colonised most of the planet’s habitats. . . . It would be surprising if any reader did not find something of interest that was entirely new to them."---Dr Alan Woollhead, Biologist"Accessible and well-written throughout and contains magnificent photos and diagrams. If you are interested in birds, want to learn more about their general biology, and have a robust book shelf, you should seriously consider it."---Antony Payne, Glasgow Naturalist
£27.00
Princeton University Press Penguins
Book SynopsisTrade Review"A Birdwatcher's Yearbook Best Bird Book of the Year""De Roy has swum, walked and slept amid penguins wherever they can be found. . . . This beautiful book can only fuel readers’ passion to preserve these astonishing birds, and for that, the authors must be lauded." * Wall Street Journal *"For those who love these iconic, oddly endearing birds—and who doesn’t?—this book is almost as good as an expedition to see them in the flesh." * Natural History *"A beautiful book. . . . It is also authoritative." * Minneapolis Star Tribune *"This book is a singular, magnificent step forward, a supernova for the eyes and minds of all penguin-lovers, and indeed penguin researchers everywhere." * The Condor *"[An] unrivalled blend of information and images." * Marine Ornithology *"Simply Sumptuous! . . . A feast for all the senses – it even smells good."---Bo Beolens, Fat Birder"Supported by over 400 spectacular photographs, this large format book deals with just about everything regarding the 18 species of penguins in the world."---Geoff Carpentier, North Durham Nature Newsletter"This is a book neontologists will treasure, while paleontologists, too, stand to benefit, both because their interests are directly catered to, and because here is a trove of detailed information conducive to ideas arising that may turn useful in paleontology, in understanding processes of diversification."---Ephraim Nissan, Paleontological Society"A terrific book which does justice to a collection of engaging species."---Richard Sale, IBIS Book Reviews
£27.00
Princeton University Press The Bird Name Book
Book SynopsisTrade Review"[A] fascinating combination of etymology and ornithology."---Nate Swick, American Birding Podcast"I found the answers to many questions in this book, and I am sure you will, too."---John Miles, Birdwatching Magazine"If you have ever wondered about the origins of the English words we use to name birds, this book is for you." * BirdWatching *"This is an exceptionally fine book and one that I imagine every bird lover will will wish to have."---David Gascoigne, Travels with Birds"Hats off to ornithologist Susan Myers on the exhaustive research and colourful writing style that characterise her latest book. . . Hard to put down."---Jim Wright, The Wryneck"Extensive and well-researched . . . . Each entry goes beyond etymology, weaving in interesting ornithological details."---Penny Sarchet, Wild Wild Lfie"[Myers] research, painstaking and comprehensive throughout, resulted in production of this fascinating volume which spans alphabetically – from Accentor to Zeledonia – all the bird groups of the world."---Jim Wright, Lincolnshire Bird Club"As ever from Princeton this is a book produced to the highest standards of presentation and fit & finish, one which I highly recommend to readers of Another Bird Blog and to birders everywhere. . . . It’s time to get your order in folks."---Phil Slade, Another Bird Blog"[A] valuable reference work for academic and public libraries."---H.T. Armistead, Choice"I certainly learnt many interesting facts from the entries that I read through and often couldn’t resist reading just one more entry before I put the book down again."---Stephen Menzie, British Birds"This is a book to treasure."---Andrew Lack, IBIS Book Reviews
£29.75
University of British Columbia Press Birds of Nunavut
Book SynopsisThe first complete survey of the birds of Nunavut, this fully illustrated reference work identifies and documents the distribution, ecology, behaviour, and conservation of the species that live in and migrate through the territory.Trade ReviewIf you get excited when you spot a snowy owl, feel sad when the last snow buntings leave town, enjoy the taste of a fat Canada goose, or are simply an avid bird-watcher, ask Santa to put the tremendous Birds of Nunavut books on your Christmas gift list. -- Jane George * Nunatsiaq News *The Birds of Nunavut is a beautiful and comprehensive two-volume tome that documents the current and historical knowledge of birds known to occur within the territorial boundaries of Nunavut…I have many geographic bird books in my library—The Birds of Nunavut is the best one. -- Bill Montevecchi, Memorial University * The Canadian Field Naturalist, Volume 132 *The product of the combined efforts of 18 experts over no less than 300 seasons of fieldwork in Nunavut, the collection is breathtaking. I have seen thousands of bird books in my career, but Birds of Nunavut has to rank among the very top five in terms of presentation and content. -- David Bird, 2017 recipient of the Doris H. Speirs Award for Outstanding Lifetime Contributions to Canadian Ornithology * Canadian Wildlife Magazine *Table of ContentsForeword by Jason AkearokPrefaceGuide to the Species AccountsIntroductionGeography and Ecology of NunavutImportant and Protected Areas for BirdsThe History of Ornithology in NunavutAvian Monitoring in Nunavut: Past, Present, and FutureClimate Change and Other Threats to Arctic BirdsSpecies Accounts: NonpasserinesSpecies Accounts: PasserinesAppendicesReferencesIndex
£87.55
Johns Hopkins University Press Second Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Maryland
Book SynopsisFirst Place, Professional Reference Books, 25th Annual New York Book ShowDespite their small sizes, Maryland and Washington, DC, possess a vast range of environmentsfrom the high peaks of the Allegheny Ridges to the low marshes of the Chesapeake Bay. Home to 200 nesting bird species, these habitats are under constant threat from urban sprawl, changing farming practices, and the degradation of coastal wetlands. The Second Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Maryland and the District of Columbia documents the impact of these environmental changes on the region's bird population and discusses the recovery of the endangered Bald Eagle and the new confirmation of breeding by three speciesthe Common Merganser, the Ruddy Duck, and the Double-crested Cormorant.Species accounts, each with a stunning color photograph, provide detailed coverage of the habitats, biology, and relative abundance of mid-Atlantic nesting birds. Up-to-date maps reflect changes in their breeding ranges and distributions over the past two decades. Of perhaps greatest value are the comparative analyses with data from the first statewide survey conducted in the 1980s. Treasured by birdersand an invaluable reference for ornithologists, conservationists, and land use plannersthis book will significantly influence our understanding and management of avian species in the region for the next decade.Trade ReviewAn invaluable reference... This book will significantly influence our understanding and management of avian species in the region for the next decade. A must have for birders of the region! -- Ian Paulson Guardian 2011 This is likely to remain the gold-standard reference on Maryland's birds-at least until a third atlas appears in, say, 2030. -- Scott Weidensaul Maryland Yellowthroat 2011 My favorite new naturalist reads these days if the 2nd Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Maryland and the District of Columbia. -- Stephanie Mason Audubon Naturalist News 2011Table of ContentsForewordPrefaceAcknowledgmentsAcronyms and AbbreviationsIntroductionThe History of Grid-based Ornithological AtlasesProceduresCoverageThe EnvironmentRepresentative Maryland HabitatsResultsConservationUsing the Species AccountsSpecies AccountsAdditional Accounts of Potential Nesting BirdsAppendixesA. Safe Dates for Maryland and DC Breeding BirdsB. Total Species per Block, First and Second AtlasesC. Quarterblock ResultsD. Abundance DefinitionsE. Nonavian Fauna CitedF. Plants CitedReferencesIndex
£61.20
University of Pennsylvania Press John James Audubon
Book SynopsisIn John James Audubon: The Nature of the American Woodsman, Gregory Nobles shows that one of Audubon's greatest creations was himself. Nobles explores the central irony of Audubon's true nature: the man who took so much time and trouble to depict birds so carefully left us a bold but deceptive picture of himself.Trade ReviewGregory Nobles illuminates different sides of the indefatigable explorer’s personality, actions, and life. As Audubon joined his adopted country in some of the shameful aspects of its history, he also embodied much of its good: hope, perseverance, and democratic values—for whites, anyway. Despite Audubon’s contradictions, we can still admire him for his relentless quest to document the feathered residents of North America. * American Birding Association *Historian Gregory Nobles explicates the man in all his complexity. . . . Deftly dissecting the multifaceted life of the Frenchman who came to embody the American pioneer more than any natural-born citizen, Nobles balances fresh anecdotes with skepticism [and] delivers a captivating portrait of a self-taught, self-made man who out of passion to paint America's birds illustrated a country ripe with possibilities. * American History *Nobles’s John James Audubon, beautifully produced by the University of Pennsylvania Press . . . delivers, competently and fluently, what its subtitle promises—an investigation of Audubon’s personal brand, the ‘American Woodsman.' * American Historical Review *Nobles . . . skillfully provides a readable account of this self-proclaimed ‘American woodsman.’ The author deems Audubon ‘America’s first celebrity scientist,’ who went to great lengths to promote himself as an artist, an entrepreneur, and a ‘gentleman of science.’ * Choice *This welcome new contribution to Audubon studies moves us several steps forward. . . . Nobles’s thorough contextualization and discussion of the evidence render his argument persuasive and original in its depth and thoroughness. * Early American Literature *The ten chapters of this excellent book review the life and times of John James Audubon in a refreshingly honest manner, detailing Audubon’s development as a brilliant bird artist and scientist and, most importantly, his careful creation of an image of himself as an ‘American woodsman.’ There have ben many biographies of Audubon, but this one is unique in its in-depth discussion of Audubon’s character and his lifelong attempt to become a greater national figure and bird artist than his predecessor, Alexander Wilson…A very informative and delightful read. [Recommended] to anyone with an interest in art, nature, or American history. * Pennsylvania Heritage *More than a century and a half after his death, John James Audubon-flamboyant, intense, garrulous, insecure, and yet gifted beyond measure-remains one of the most compelling figures in American history. In this fine new biography, Gregory Nobles brings 'the American Woodsman' back to full, vivid life, capturing the artist's many facets as Audubon himself captured the essence of his beloved birds. * Scott Weidensaul, author of Of a Feather: A Brief History of American Birding *Compulsively readable and fascinating. Gregory Nobles's bottom-to-top assessment of the entire tableau of Audubon lore is terrific. * Daniel Lewis, author of The Feathery Tribe: Robert Ridgway and the Modern Study of Birds *An elegant book that adroitly weaves together a portrait of a man of genius and an account of the cultural and economic worlds in which he worked. * Ann Fabian, author of The Skull Collectors: Race, Science, and America's Unburied Dead *Table of ContentsIntroduction. Creating Art, Science, and Self Chapter 1. Becoming Audubon, Becoming American Chapter 2. Hearing Birds, Heeding Their Call Chapter 3. Making an Odyssey for Art and Ornithology Chapter 4. Going into Business with The Birds of America Chapter 5. Struggling for Status in Science Chapter 6. Suffering for Science as the "American Woodsman" Chapter 7. Putting People into the Picture Chapter 8. Exploring the Ornithology of Ordinary People Chapter 9. Forging a Legacy, Finding a Discipline Chapter 10. Bringing Audubon Back to Life Notes Index Acknowledgments
£27.90
Rutgers University Press Do Hummingbirds Hum Fascinating Answers to
Book SynopsisIn Do Hummingbirds Hum? George C. West, who has studied and banded over 13,500 hummingbirds in Arizona, and Carol A. Butler provide an overview of hummingbird biology for the general reader, and more detailed discussions of their morphology and behavior for those who want to fly beyond the basics.Trade Review"West and Butler's book is a very refreshing change of pace on a variety of subjects regarding the hummingbird. It is a delight to find such a comprehensive and concise treatment of the most commonly asked questions regarding the lives of these tiny little beasts." -- Bob Sargent * co-founder The Hummer/Bird Study Group, Inc *"Do Hummingbirds Hum? is a well-organized and nicely researched book that will be a wonderful addition to any hummingbirder's library." -- Nancy Newfield * Naturalist, Hummingbird Bander *"An interesting compendium of knowledge about these marvelous little birds. This volume contains a wealth of information concerning hummingbird biology from the seemingly trivial facts to somewhat complex considerations. Highly recommended." * Choice *"This volume excels in compiling research on this interesting avian lineage and presents the material in an accessible and enjoyable manner." * Quarterly Review of Biology *Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments One. Hummingbird Basics Two. Systems and Senses Three. Feathers and Bones Four. Reproduction Five. Flight and Migration Six. Dangers and Defenses Seven. Attracting and Feeding Eight. Identifying and Photographing Nine. Research and Conservation Appendices References Index
£20.69
LUP - University of Georgia Press Neighborhood Hawks A Year Following Wild Birds
Book SynopsisFollows in the tradition of writings from Henry David Thoreau, Terry O'Connor and J.A. Baker, with John Lane using the red-shouldered hawks that live in his neighborhood to explore the concept of “commensalism”, the idea that two species can live near each other without harming or benefitting the other.
£23.60
CABI Publishing Development of Brain and Behaviour in the Chicken
Book SynopsisAs a model organism, the chick has provided valuable insights into broad issues of development in higher animals. The complex interactions between genetic, hormonal and environmental factors which occur in the developing chick provide a potent argument against unitary causal explanations for differences in behaviour. Study of the behaviour of the chick is also relevant to poultry science and the welfare of domesticated birds. This book reviews research on the development of brain and behaviour in the chick and juxtaposes this with similar work on other avian and, to a lesser extent, mammalian species. It begins by outlining the developmental stages of the chick embryo, including the effects of environmental stimulation. Behaviour and the neurochemistry of development and memory formation in the posthatching period are then discussed. The transitions that occur during the first two to three weeks of posthatching life are described, particularly in terms of changing hemispheric dominanceTable of Contents1: Development of brain and behaviour before hatching 2: Development of the central nervous system and activity patterns 3: Hatching 4: Development of the sensory systems 5: Environmental influences on development of the embryo 6: Tactile and vestibular stimulation 7: Auditory stimulation 8: Visual stimulation 9: Other factors that may influence development of the embryo 10: Intersensory stimulation during development 11: Early learning after hatching 12: Filial imprinting 13: Sexual imprinting 14: Fear behaviour 15: Alarm calling 16: Learning to feed 17: Social hierarchies in young chicks 18: Sleep 19: Cycles of Behaviour 20: Brain development after hatching 21: Asymmetrical development of the forebrain hemispheres 22: Cellular and molecular correlates of memory formation 23: Development of the commissures and decussations 24: Maturation of synapses 25: Behavioural transitions in early posthatching life 26: Transitions in general behaviour 27: Transitions in fear behaviour 28: Transitions in behaviours related to feeding 29: Transitions in eye and ear use 30: Summary of the rapid transition phases of development 31: Transitions into adult behaviour 32: Comparison with development in other species 33: Comparison to other avian species 34: Comparison to mammalian species 35: Can a brain be domesticated? 36: Cognitive abilities of birds 37: Issues of animal welfare
£122.62
Oregon State University Halcyon Journey In Search of the Belted
Book SynopsisIn this first book on belted kingfishers, Marina Richie plunges headfirst - just like a kingfisher would - into their lives, following them from her backyard to archives around the world. Weaving natural history, mythology, and memoir, Richie celebrates the belted kingfisher through a journey of discovery across multiple seasons.
£19.96
MP-OSU Oregon State Universi Among Penguins A Bird Man in Antarctica
Book SynopsisThe year he graduated from college, 22-year-old Noah Strycker was dropped by helicopter in a remote Antarctic field camp with two bird scientists and a three months' supply of frozen food. His subjects: more than a quarter million penguins. With wit, curiosity, and a deep knowledge of his subject, Strycker weaves a captivating tale of penguins and their researchers at the end of the Earth.
£19.96
Oregon State University Penguins in the Desert
Book SynopsisEvery year, hundreds of thousands of Magellanic penguins gather to breed at Punta Tombo, Argentina, along a windswept edge of the Patagonian desert, and for more than three decades, biologist Dee Boersma has joined them. Penguins in the Desert follows both the penguins and Boersma through a season of their remarkable lives.
£16.96
Temple University Press,U.S. Birding the Delaware Valley
Book SynopsisPlaces all the excitement and opportunity of the Delaware Valley's 335 species of birds within convenient reach. With detailed directions like behind the airport, follow the shabby road off to the left, and lock the car and walk the railroad tracks, this book tells the birder how to get to the best locations and what to do when he's there.Trade Review"Splendid...extremely useful for anyone birding in your favored area...A Model for other regions of the country." --Roger Tory Peterson
£19.94
John Wiley and Sons Ltd Avian Evolution
Book SynopsisKnowledge of the evolutionary history of birds has much improved in recent decades. Fossils from critical time periods are being described at unprecedented rates and modern phylogenetic analyses have provided a framework for the interrelationships of the extant groups. This book gives an overview of the avian fossil record and its paleobiological significance, and it is the only up-to-date textbook that covers both Mesozoic and more modern-type Cenozoic birds in some detail. The reader is introduced to key features of basal avians and the morphological transformations that have occurred in the evolution towards modern birds. An account of the Cenozoic fossil record sheds light on the biogeographic history of the extant avian groups and discusses fossils in the context of current phylogenetic hypotheses. This review of the evolutionary history of birds not only addresses students and established researchers, but it may also be a useful source of information for anyone else with an inTrade Review"Of all the works on the evolution of birds, it is the most modern, complete summary, with just enough fossil figures (no reconstructions), including 16 central color pencils, morphological descriptions and of genealogical trees. A mine of reflections that illuminate our current settlements" Ornithos, 24:5 (2017)Table of ContentsForeword ix Preface xi Acknowledgments xiii Chapter 1 An Introduction to Birds, the Geological Settings of Their Evolution, and the Avian Skeleton 1 Birds Are Evolutionarily Nested within Theropod Dinosaurs 2 The Geological Settings of Avian Evolution in a Nutshell 4 Characteristics of the Avian Skeleton 6 Chapter 2 The Origin of Birds 18 Archaeopteryx: The German “Urvogel” and Its Bearing on Avian Evolution 19 The Closest Maniraptoran Relatives of Birds 22 Feather Evolution 32 The Origin of Avian Flight 37 Chapter 3 The Mesozoic Flight Way towards Modern Birds 43 Jeholornithids: Early Cretaceous Long-Tailed Birds 44 Confuciusornis, Sapeornis, and Kin: Basal Birds with a Pygostyle 45 Ornithothoraces and the Origin of Sustained Flapping Flight Capabilities 50 The Ornithuromorpha: Refinement of Modern Characteristics 55 Ornithurae and the Origin of Modern Birds 59 Chapter 4 Mesozoic Birds: Interrelationships and Character Evolution 64 The Interrelationships of Mesozoic Birds: Controversial Phylogenetic Placements and Well-Supported Clades 65 Character Evolution in Mesozoic Birds 68 Ontogenetic Development of Mesozoic Birds 81 Chapter 5 The Interrelationships and Origin of Crown Group Birds (Neornithes) 84 Phylogenetic Interrelationships of Neornithine Birds 85 The Mesozoic Fossil Record of Neornithine-Like and Neornithine Birds 88 Chapter 6 Palaeognathous Birds (Ostriches, Tinamous, and Allies) 94 The Interrelationships of Extant Palaeognathae 95 Early Cenozoic Palaeognathous Birds of the Northern Hemisphere 95 Long-Winged Ostriches, Rheas, and Tinamous 97 Short-Winged Palaeognathous Birds 101 Biogeography: A Textbook Example of Gondwanan Vicariance Has Been Dismantled 105 Chapter 7 Galloanseres: “Fowl” and Kin 107 Galliformes: From Herbivorous Forest Dwellers to Seed Eaters of Open Landscapes 108 The Waterfowl 113 Gastornithids: Giant Herbivorous Birds in the Early Paleogene of the Northern Hemisphere 118 Dromornithids (Mihirungs or Thunderbirds): Gastornis-Like Birds from Australia 120 Pelagornithids: Bony-Toothed Birds 121 Chapter 8 The “Difficult-to-Place Groups”: Biogeographic Surprises and Aerial Specialists 125 The Columbiform Birds: Doves, Sandgrouse, … and Mesites? 126 The Hoatzin: A South American Relict Species 127 Turacos and Cuckoos 129 Bustards 131 The “Wonderful” Mirandornithes, or How Different Can Sister Taxa Be? 132 Strisores: The Early Diversification of Nocturnal Avian Insectivores 136 Chapter 9 Shorebirds, Cranes, and Relatives 147 Charadriiformes: One of the Most Diverse Groups of Extant Birds 148 From Rail to Crane 156 Chapter 10 Aequornithes: Aquatic and Semi-Aquatic Carnivores 161 Loons: Foot-Propelled Divers of the Northern Hemisphere 162 Pelagic Tubenoses and Albatrosses 164 Penguins: More Than 60 Million Years of Flightlessness 168 The Polyphyletic “Pelecaniformes” and “Ciconiiformes” 174 Late Cenozoic Turnovers in Marine Avifaunas 187 Chapter 11 Cariamiforms and Diurnal Birds of Prey 189 Seriemas and Allies: Two Species Now, Many More in the Past 190 Diurnal Birds of Prey: Multiple Cases of Convergence among Raptorial Birds 197 Chapter 12 The Cenozoic Radiation of Small Arboreal Birds 204 The Courol and Mousebirds: Two African Relict Groups 205 The Long Evolutionary History of Owls 210 Parrots and Passerines: An Unexpected Sister Group Relationship and Its Potential Evolutionary Implications 212 Trogons, Rollers, and Woodpeckers: Cavity-Nesters with Diverse Foot Morphologies 223 Chapter 13 Insular Avifaunas Now and Then, on Various Scales 233 Islands and Isolated Continents as Refugia 234 The Evolution of Flightlessness in Predator-Free Environments 235 Insular Gigantism and Islands as Cradles of Unusual Morphologies 241 Glossary 245 References 248 Index 289
£999.99
John Wiley and Sons Ltd Infectious Diseases of Wild Mammals and Birds in
Book SynopsisWritten by veterinary pathologists, epidemiologists and clinicans, this is the definitive reference covering infectious diseases found in wild mammals and birds in Europe.Trade ReviewThis book provides the scientific community working with free-living wildlife a comprehensive resource on the diseases affecting these animals in Europe. However, it is also a useful resource for wildlife professionals globally as much of the information is applicable regardless of location." (Doody's, 2 August 2013) “I have already learned lots while reviewing it, and I would thoroughly recommend this to be on the bookshelf of any vet or biologist with a significant interest in wildlife, conservation or zoological medicine. In addition, it is also available in electronic format for approximately two-thirds the price, representing not only good value, but also an ideal format for taking into the field where it would be extremely useful.” (Veterinary Record, 23 March 2013) “Dolores Gavier-Widen, J. Paul Duff & Anna Meredith edit INFECTIOUS DISEASES OF WILD MAMMALS AND BIRDS IN EUROPE (9781405199056, $169.99), a key title covering the diagnosis and treatment of diseases in European wildlife, and is a recommended pick for any specialty collection strong in veterinary experiences around the world. From risks to human health and livestock and pets to how diseases spread in the wild, wildlife vaccination and disease surveillance techniques, and classification, this is written by clinicians and pathologists from across Europe and assembles a powerful technical compendium of details for vets, conservation biologists, and wildlife researchers alike.” (Midwest Book Review, 1 March 2013) Table of ContentsNotes on Contributors vii Preface xi Cover Image Acknowledgements xiii Acknowledgements xiv Section 1 Viral Infections 1 1. Herpesvirus Infections 3 2. Influenza Virus Infections 37 3. Avian Paramyxovirus Infections 59 4. Circovirus Infections 67 5. Calicivirus Infections 73 6. Lyssavirus Infections 86 7. Morbillivirus Infections 99 8. Orbivirus Infections 119 9. Flavivirus Infections 128 10. Pestivirus Infections 146 11. Picornavirus Infections 168 12. Parvovirus Infections 181 13. Poxvirus Infections 191 14. Adenovirus Infections 210 15. Retrovirus Infections 219 16. Papillomavirus and Polyomavirus Infections 225 17. Coronavirus Infections 234 18. Bunyavirus Infections 241 19. Other Virus Infections 249 Section 2 Bacterial Infections 263 20. Mycobacteria Infections 265 21. Yersinia Infections 293 22. Tularaemia 303 23. Pasteurella Infections 310 24. Brucellosis 318 25. Anthrax 329 26. Chlamydiaceae Infections 336 27. Borrelia Infections 345 28. Rickettsiales Infections 363 29. Mycoplasma Infections 372 30. Escherichia Infections 381 31. Salmonella Infections 386 32. Campylobacter Infections 398 33. Leptospira Infections 402 34. Coxiella burnetii Infection 409 35. Listeria Infections 413 36. Clostridium Species and Botulism 417 37. Other Bacterial Infections 428 Section 3 Fungal and Yeast Infections 453 38. Aspergillosis 455 39. Yeast Infections 462 40. Other Fungal Infections 466 41. Harmful Algal Blooms including Cyanobacterial Toxicosis 476 42. Mycotoxicosis 482 Section 4 Prion Infections 487 43. Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies 489 Section 5 Appendices 497 Appendix 1. Some Wildlife Related Emerging Diseases (WiREDS) in Europe 499 Appendix 2. Selected Zoonotic Pathogens with European Wildlife Reservoirs/Hosts 501 Appendix 3. Selected Socio-Economically Important Wildlife Related Pathogens and Diseases in Europe 503 Appendix 4. Wildlife Pathogens with Arthropod Vectors 505 Appendix 5. Pathogens Suspected of Causing Wild Population Declines, or of Conservation Importance 506 Appendix 6. Diseases by Clinical Presentations, Mammals 507 Appendix 7. Diseases by Clinical Presentations, Birds 509 Appendix 8. Species (Family)-Specific Wildlife Diseases in Europe 511 Subject Index 513
£999.99
Johns Hopkins University Press Ospreys
Book SynopsisA fascinating look at one of the greatest conservation success stories of the modern era: the wildly popular, unique, and thrilling raptor, the Osprey. Ospreys are one of the few bird species that are found throughout the world. From forests in Hokkaido to rivers in Oregon and islands off Australia, Ospreys steal the show as nature lovers easily watch them build their massive nests and tend to their young. The fact that the Osprey is one of the few large birds that can hover adds to its mystique, and to watch it plunge into the water, emerging with a fish clutched in its talons, is truly a sight one will remember. As widespread as Ospreys are, not long ago they were under threat of extinction. During the 1950s and '60s, scientists tied the decline of Osprey populations to the heavy use of DDT and other human pollutants. In the 1980s, Ospreys began a slow recovery due to the efforts of conservationists and through the resilience of the adaptable raptors themselves. Today they are agaiTrade ReviewA must have for those with a serious interest in Ospreys.—Ian Paulsen, Birdbooker Report[Poole's] excellent book is easy reading and very informative. It is also full of great color photographs and informative maps. I recommend it to anyone interested in these fascinating birds.—Fritz H. Brock, Wildlife ActivistNo other book contains as much information from everywhere within the bird's almost uniquely global range . . . [Ospreys: The Revival of a Global Raptor] is a very well-written, clear and enjoyable account of a bird that has almost universal popularity in the modern world . . . I recommend it strongly.—Ian Francis, Scottish BirdsWith such a cosmopolitan species and the breadth of topics he touches upon, Poole has done an admirable job constructing a cohesive narrative . . . Poole's very readable prose makes it accessible for the layperson despite the quantity of information presented . . . I thoroughly enjoyed reading [Ospreys: The Revival of a Global Raptor] and would highly recommend it to both novice naturalist and experienced birder alike.—Robert F. Foster, The Canadian Field-NaturalistMost people with any interest in natural history (and quite a few who claim no interest) know the story of the Osprey, and all of them would enjoy reading—and learn much—from this lavishly illustrated book . . . Poole's enthusiasm shines through, and the geographic breadth of the information he brings together is impressive.—Michael Scott, Conservation BiologyTable of ContentsPreface Chapter 1. Introduction: This Famed Bird Chapter 2. A Hawk That Fishes Chapter 3. The Geography of Ospreys Chapter 4. Finding Food Chapter 5. At the Nest Chapter 6. On the Wing: Incredible Journeys Chapter 7. Threats and Solutions Chapter 8. Looking Ahead Bibliography Index
£40.91
Johns Hopkins University Press The Secret Perfume of Birds
Book SynopsisThe untold story of a stunning discovery: not only can birds smell, but their scents may be the secret to understanding their world. Winner of the PROSE Award for Best Book in Popular Science and MathematicsThe puzzling lack of evidence for the peculiar but widespread belief that birds have no sense of smell irked evolutionary biologist Danielle Whittaker. Exploring the science behind the myth led her on an unexpected quest investigating mysteries from how juncos win a fight to why cowbirds smell like cookies. In The Secret Perfume of Birdspart science, part intellectual history, and part memoirWhittaker blends humor, clear writing, and a compelling narrative to describe how scent is important not just for birds but for all animals, including humans. Whittaker engagingly describes how emerging research has uncovered birds' ability to produce complex chemical signals that influence their behavior, including where they build nests, when they pick a fight, and why they fly away. Mate Trade ReviewFrom tangerine-scented auklets to mossy-smelling juncos, birds are more fragrant than you might think.—Simon Ings, NEW SCIENTISTWhittaker blends science writing and memoir to explore how birds make use of odors in her delightful debut. Whittaker's a natural explainer, and her willingness to poke fun at herself only enhances her fascinating account. Fans of Jon Dunn and Jonathan Meiburg will be charmed.—Publishers WeeklyA delightfully meandering account...Whittaker presents a new lens for bird lovers to view common species, and she had me wondering what some of my favorite birds smell like... The book's greatest success is how it depicts the reality of doing science...It takes a diverse group of perspectives—and the humility to reconsider our biases—to truly understand our world.—Ryan Mandelbum, Scientific AmericanWhittaker's wide-ranging book combines memoir, intellectual history, and the results of her own scientific research on avian chemical communication, which challenges the long-held belief in ornithology that birds don't have a sense of smell. Whittaker also discusses her unorthodox academic career and her personal life (including her roller derby alter ego 'Chunk Rock Girl'), adding zest to the science.—Library JournalBeautifully written.—BirdWatchingFull of vivid descriptions of fieldwork adventures, fun facts about bird scents, detailed scientific explanations that always stay very readable....A charming and readable background to a little-studied area of ornithology.—BTO News (British Trust for Ornithology)Whittaker convincingly busts the myth of avian anosmia....[The Secret Perfume of Birds]rewards the reader with fascinating insights into the fields of animal behaviour and chemical communication.—The Inquisitive BiologistTable of ContentsPreface. Follow Your NoseChapter 1. The Most Ancient and Fundamental SenseChapter 2. Following the Bird's NoseChapter 3. Deciphering the Secrets of SmellsChapter 4. What Does Sexy Smell Like?Chapter 5. Making Scents of BacteriaChapter 6. Thanks for SharingChapter 7. MHC: Magical Happiness Controller?Chapter 8. Girl PowerAfterword. A Breath of Fresh AirAcknowledgmentsGlossaryReferencesIndex
£20.70
Cornell University Press When Birds Are Near
Book SynopsisTrade ReviewDevoted birders and readers with a more general interest in wildlife will appreciate this lovely collection. * Publisher's weekly *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Nighthawks: Lake Perez 2. Spotted Owls 3. Birding in Traffic 4. Buried Birds 5. The Problem with Pretty Birds 6. Red-headed Love Child 7. Crane, Water, Change: A Migratory Essay 8. The Black and White 9. One Single Hummingbird 10. Assault on the French Canal Bridge 11. Wild Swans 12. The Snowy Winter 13. Koan 14. This Is My Tribe 15. In the Eyes of the Condor 16. Little Brown Birds 17. The Keepers of the Ghost Bird 18. The Hour (or Two) before the Dawn 19. Secret of Owls 20. Guardian of the Garden 21. Chasing the Ghost of the Imperial Woodpecker 22. Extralimital 23. Death and the Rose-breasted Grosbeak 24. Birding on Bleaker Island 25. Nest Watcher 26. My Bird Problem
£17.09
Cornell University Press Bird Talk
Book SynopsisBird Talk delves into new scientific developments to reveal the complexities of how birds make, learn, and use sound in a bewildering array of songs and calls. The beauty of birdsong is one of the joys of nature, and this book reveals how songs are learnt and performed, why the quality of a male''s repertoire can affect his mating success, and how birds use song-matching and countersinging in territorial disputes. Bird Talk illustrates how birds communicate through visual signals too, from the dazzling feathers of a Peacock to the jumping displays a Jackson''s Widowbird performs to show off his long tail. Plumage features such as the red bill shield of a Pukeko can indicate dominance, and how aggressive wing-waving is used to ward off impostors.Bird Talk will help you understand how birds communicate in a range of situations, whether in harmony or in conflict, providing essential new insight into avian intelligence.Trade ReviewI highly recommend this book for anyone who is passionate about ornithology and birding, and interested in expanding their knowledge about the different ways that birds communicate, as well as the impacts of human activity on birdsong and other behavior. * San Francisco Book Review *Bird Talk: An Exploration of Avian Communication is a very good and surprisingly relatively inexpensive way to expand one's knowledge of birds and what we know about how they communicate by song, movement, physical appearance, and smell. [The book makes] scientific information easily available, effortless to read and process, primarily through the use of stunning visual material to engage our eyes and spike our interest. * 10,000 Birds *
£22.79
Cornell University Press Elusive Birds of the Tropical Understory
Book SynopsisTrade ReviewThe beauty of this book is the often larger than life photographs of subtly colored antbirds, wood- creepers, furnariids (''ovenbirds''), hummingbirds, flycatchers, and other birds that, for the average birder, often take considerable effort and luck to see well. * The Wilson Journal of Ornithology *Table of ContentsIntroduction, by John W. Fitzpatrick and Jeffrey D. Brawn Challenges to Biodiversity Conservation in Panama, by Samuel Valdés Díaz Portraits in Words and Pictures Ruddy Quail-Dove, by Scott K. Robinson White-tipped Sicklebill, by Christoph Hinkelmann Band-tailed Barbthroat, by Christoph Hinkelmann Green Hermit, by Christoph Hinkelmann Long-billed Hermit, by Jay J. Falk White-whiskered Puffbird, by John P. Whitelaw Golden-olive Woodpecker, by John P. Whitelaw Black-crowned Antshrike, by Corey Tarwater Russet Antshrike, by Phred M. Benham Checker-throated Stipplethroat, by John W. Fitzpatrick White-flanked Antwren, by Scott K. Robinson Chestnut-backed Antbird, by Thomas W. Sherry Bicolored Antbird, by Jeffrey D. Brawn Spotted Antbird, by Jonathan Patrick Kelley Ocellated Antbird, by Henry S. Pollock Black-faced Antthrush, by Henry S. Pollock Black-faced Antthrush, by Henry S. Pollock and Jeffrey D. Brawn Cocoa Woodcreeper, by Jeffrey D. Brawn Plain Xenops, by Phred M. Benham Buff-throated Foliage-gleaner, by Jared D. Wolfe Ruddy-tailed Flycatcher, by Thomas W. Sherry Ants and Ant Followers, by John P. Whitelaw Sulphur-rumped Flycatcher, by Thomas W. Sherry Golden-crowned Spadebill, by John P. Whitelaw and Alexander F. Skutch Flycatcher, by Scott K. Robinson Ochre-bellied Flycatcher, by John W. Fitzpatrick Avian Malaria in the Forest Understory, by Emma I. Young Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant, by John W. Fitzpatrick Eye-ringed Flatbill, by Jared D. Wolfe Olivaceous Flatbill, by Jonathan Patrick Kelley Yellow-breasted Flycatcher, by John P. Whitelaw Southern Bentbill, by Thomas W. Sherry Ectoparasites on Panamanian Birds, by Sergio E. Bermúdez Castillero Mountain Elaenia, by Peter A. Hosner Long-billed Gnatwren, by Jeffrey D. Brawn and Henry S. Pollock Scaly-breasted Wren, by Henry S. Pollock and John P. Whitelaw White-breasted Wood-Wren, by Jeffrey D. Brawn and Henry S. Pollock Gray-breasted Wood-Wren, by Caroline Dingle Song Wren, by Henry S. Pollock Black-faced Solitaire, by K. Greg Murray Hummingbird Tongues: An Ingenious Adaptation, by John P. Whitelaw Ruddy-capped Nightingale-Thrush, by Scott K. Robinson Slate-throated Redstart, by Ronald L. Mumme Rictal Bristles, by John W. Fitzpatrick Blue-black Grosbeak, by Henry S. Pollock Gray-headed Tanager, by Jeffrey D. Brawn
£29.45
Texas A & M University Press Finding Birds on the Great Texas Coastal Birding
Book SynopsisThe Texas coast offers rich avian treasures for expert birders and beginners alike, if only they know where to look. For those familiar with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's maps to the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, this book on the Upper Texas Coast offers more - more information, more convenient and detailed maps, more pictures, more finding tips, and more birding advice from one of the trail's creators, Ted Lee Eubanks Jr., and trail experts Robert A. Behrstock and Seth Davidson. For those new to the trail, the book is the perfect companion for learning where to find and how to bird the very best venues on this part of the Texas coast.In an opening tutorial on habitat and seasonal strategies for birding the Upper Texas Coast, the authors include tips on how to take advantage of the famous (but elusive) fallouts of birds that happen here. They then briefly discuss the basics of birding by ear and the rewards of passive birding before turning to the trail itself and each of more than 120 birding sites from the Louisiana-Texas border, through Galveston and Houston, to just south of Freeport.While not intended as a field identification guide, the book contains more than 175 color photographs of birds and their coastal habitat, giving readers an excellent feel for the trail's diversity and abundance. Whether you are making your annual spring pilgrimage to Texas, leisurely traveling with the family along the coast, or wondering what to do during a layover in Houston, using this book as your guide to the trail will greatly enhance your birding experience.
£18.36
Stephen F. Austin State University Press Roads, Peoples, Birds, Mountaintops, and
Book SynopsisRoads, Peoples, Birds, Mountaintops, and Billabongs recounts the unparalleled 3-year adventure around the world of a passionate ornithologist and an aspiring entrepreneur in an overweight Jeep camping van, 1959–1962. In this expedition around the world, Dean Fisher, with only one companion and a vehicle that broke down endlessly, speaks not only of the birds and natural history, but also the people and cultures encountered, not to mention the many challenges that had to be solved. This was all done long before international travel had become commonplace or bird guides were available for most of the places he visits. For many years, those of fascinated by his accounts urged him to write down these tales of adventure so they wouldn’t be lost. Finally, he has done so, and now we can all share in his incredible journey, from a time that seems quite distant and more innocent.
£22.46
