Description
Book SynopsisSynthesises and analyses the masses of data on the behavioural ecology of harriers. This work offers a comparison of breeding systems among harriers in the northern and southern hemispheres, and includes a phylogeny of the harriers, based on DNA findings. It is illustrated with line drawings of these impressive birds.
Trade Review... the book is remarkably compact, written in an engaging and easily accessible style, and features many beautiful line drawings by the authors twin brother, John ... We recommend that everyone with even a passing interest in how and why birds do what they do, as well as all those who take study of behaviour, ecology and evolution more seriously, should add this volume to their bookshelves.
...a book that is full of ideas and insight. * IBIS *
Table of ContentsPreface ; 1. Introduction: Changing perspectives - from natural history to behavioural ecology ; 2. Evolution and peculiarities of the harriers ; 3. Aerial displays: Mate choice and reverse dimorphism ; 4. Of mice and harriers: Who wins the arms race? ; 5. Mating patterns: Polygyny and deception ; 6. Copulation patterns and sperm depletion ; 7. Sex ratio and egg size manipulation ; 8. Food and reproduction in the tropics ; 9. Clutch size and latitude ; 10. Synthesis ; References ; Index
