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This page collects together other bird related books published Cambridge University Press that are not included in the series that are listed on other pages.

Cambridge University Press pages

The Natural History Of Birds (Buffon)

Cambridge Library Collection

Other bird related books

Bird Migration Across the Himalayas: Wetland Functioning Amidst Mountains and Glaciers

Editor: Herbert HT Prins, Tsewang Namgail

2017

"Birds migrating across the Himalayan region fly over the highest peaks in the world, facing immense physiological and climatic challenges. The authors show the different strategies used by birds to cope with these challenges. Many wetland avian species are seen in the high-altitude lakes of the Himalayas and the adjoining Tibetan Plateau, such as Bar-Headed Geese. Ringing programmes have generated information about origins and destinations, and Bird Migration Across the Himalayas is the first to present information on the bird's exact migratory paths. Capitalising on knowledge generated through satellite telemetry, the authors describe the migratory routes of a multitude of birds flying over or skirting the Himalayas. The myriad of threats to migratory birds and the wetland system in the Central Asian Flyway are discussed, with ways to mitigate them. Bird Migration Across the Himalayas will inform and persuade policy-makers and conservation practitioners to take appropriate measures for the long-term survival of this unique migration."

Avian Cognition

Editor: Carel ten Cate, Susan D. Healy

2016

"The cognitive abilities of birds are remarkable: hummingbirds integrate spatial and temporal information about food sources, day-old chicks have a sense of numbers, parrots can make and use tools, and ravens have sophisticated insights in social relationships. Avian Cognition describes the full range of avian cognitive abilities, the mechanisms behind such abilities and how they relate to the ecology of the species. Synthesising the latest research in avian cognition, a range of experts in the field provide first-hand insights into experimental procedures, outcomes and theoretical advances, including a discussion of how the findings in birds relate to the cognitive abilities of other species, including humans. The authors cover a range of topics such as spatial cognition, social learning, tool use, perceptual categorization and concept learning, providing the broader context for students and researchers interested in the current state of avian cognition research, its key questions and appropriate experimental approaches."

Diving Physiology of Marine Mammals and Seabirds

Paul J. Ponganis

2015

"Analysing the physiological adaptations of marine mammals and seabirds, this book provides a comprehensive overview of what allows these species to overcome the challenges of diving to depth on a single breath of air. Through comparative reviews of texts on diving physiology and behaviour from the last seventy-five years, Ponganis combines this research into one succinct volume. Investigating the diving performance of marine mammals and seabirds, this book illustrates how physiological processes to extreme hypoxia and pressure are relevant to the advancement of our understanding of basic cellular processes and human pathologies. This book underscores the biomedical and ecological relevance of the anatomical, physiological and molecular/biophysical adaptations of these animals to enable further research in this area. An important resource for students and researchers, this text not only provides an essential overview of recent research in the field, but will stimulate further research into the behaviour and physiology of diving."

Birds and Climate Change: Impacts and Conservation Responses

James Pearce-Higgins and Rhys E Green

Cambridge University Press

2014

"From the red grouse to the Ethiopian bush-crow, bird populations around the world can provide us with vital insights into the effects of climate change on species and ecosystems. They are among the best studied and monitored of organisms, yet many are already under threat of extinction as a result of habitat loss, overexploitation and pollution. Providing a single source of information for students, scientists, practitioners and policy-makers, this book begins with a critical review of the existing impacts of climate change on birds, including changes in the timing of migration and breeding and effects on bird populations around the world. The second part considers how conservationists can assess potential future impacts, quantifying how extinction risk is linked to the magnitude of global change and synthesising the evidence in support of likely conservation responses. The final chapters assess the threats posed by efforts to reduce the magnitude of climate change."

The Social Life of Greylag Geese: Patterns, Mechanisms and Evolutionary Functions in an Avian Model System

Editor: Isabella BR Scheiber, Brigitte Weiss, Josef Hemetsberger, Kurt Kotrschal

2013

"The flock of greylag geese established by Konrad Lorenz in Austria in 1973 has become an influential model animal system and one of the few worldwide with complete life-history data spanning several decades. Based on the unique records of nearly 1000 free-living greylag geese, this is a synthesis of more than 20 years of behavioural research. It provides a comprehensive overview of a complex bird society, placing it in an evolutionary framework and drawing on a range of approaches, including behavioural (personality, aggression, pair bonding and clan formation), physiological, cognitive and genetic. With contributions from leading researchers, the chapters provide valuable insight into historic and recent research on the social behaviour of geese. All aspects of goose and bird sociality are discussed in the context of parallels with mammalian social organisation, making this a fascinating resource for anyone interested in integrative approaches to vertebrate social systems."

Guano and the Opening of the Pacific World: A Global Ecological History

Gregory T Cushman

2012

"For centuries, bird guano has played a pivotal role in the agricultural and economic development of Latin America, East Asia and Oceania. As their populations ballooned during the Industrial Revolution, North American and European powers came to depend on this unique resource as well, helping them meet their ever-increasing farming needs. Guano and the Opening of the Pacific World explores how the production and commodification of guano has shaped the modern Pacific Basin and the world's relationship to the region. Marrying traditional methods of historical analysis with a broad interdisciplinary approach, Gregory T. Cushman casts this once little-known commodity as an engine of Western industrialization, offering new insight into uniquely modern developments such as environmental consciousness and conservation movements; the ascendance of science, technology and expertise; international relations; and world war."

Birds and Habitat: Relationships in Changing Landscapes

Robert J. Fuller

2012

"The successful conservation of bird species relies upon our understanding of their habitat use and requirements. In the coming decades the importance of such knowledge will only grow as climate change, the development of new energy sources and the needs of a growing human population intensify the, already significant, pressure on the habitats that birds depend on. Drawing on valuable recent advances in our understanding of bird-habitat relationships, Birds and Habitat provides the first major review of avian habitat selection in over twenty years. It offers a synthesis of concepts, patterns and issues that will interest students, researchers and conservation practitioners. Spatial scales ranging from landscape to habitat patch are covered, and examples of responses to habitat change are examined. European landscapes are the main focus, but Birds and Habitat has far wider significance to similar habitats worldwide, with examples and relevant material also drawn from North America and Australia."

The Boreal Owl: Ecology, Behaviour and Conservation of a Forest-Dwelling Predator

Erkki Korpimäki & Harri Hakkarainen

2012

"Synthesising the results of unique long-term studies of boreal owls, The Boreal Owl: Ecology, Behaviour and Conservation of a Forest-Dwelling Predator explores hunting modes, habitats and foods, prey interactions, mating and parental care, reproduction, dispersal, survival and mortality, population regulation and conservation in boreal forests. Providing a detailed introduction to the species, the authors study the complex interactions of boreal owls with their prey species. They examine the inter-sexual tug-of-war over parental care, and the behavioural and demographic adaptations to environmental conditions that predictably and markedly fluctuate both seasonally and multi-annually. They also question whether boreal owls are able to time their reproductive effort to maximise lifetime reproductive success. Discussing the effect of modern forestry practices on owl populations, The Boreal Owl: Ecology, Behaviour and Conservation of a Forest-Dwelling Predator also examines how boreal owls could be managed to sustain viable populations."

Granivorous Birds in Ecosystems: Their Evolution, Populations, Energetics, Adaptations, Impact and Control

Editor: Jan Pinowski, S. Charles Kendeigh

Cambridge University Press

2012

"This book was first published in 1977. It deals with the importance of weed seed and grain-eating birds in natural and agricultural environments. These birds are to be found worldwide and are a component of man-made ecosystems where they are associated with man's main food crops. An analysis is made of their evolution and genetics, population dynamics, energy and food requirements, impact on ecosystems and control. Principles, procedures and basic data are presented that can be applied to the evaluation and control of pest species anywhere in the world. In this synthesis volume full use is made of the systems approach, the ecological and evolutionary aspects of the study are integrated. In linking the studies with fundamental work on bioenergetics, new insights are provided into the behavioural and applied aspects of granivory. Studies which encompass archaeological and anthropological investigations form a backcloth for the detailed interpretation of the population biology and bioenergetics of birds."

Winged Sentinels: Birds and Climate Change

Janice Wormworth and Cagan H. Sekercioglu

2011

"'The ability of the birds to show us the consequences of our own actions is among their most important and least appreciated attributes. Despite the free advice of the birds, we do not pay attention', said Marjory Stoneman Douglas in 1947. From ice-dependent penguins of Antarctica to songbirds that migrate across the Sahara, birds' responses provide early warning signs of the impact of climate change. Winged Sentinels: Birds and Climate Change uses colourful examples to show how particular groups of birds face heightened threats from climate change and to explore how we can help birds adapt in a warming world. Generously illustrated with colour photographs, the book is a fascinating insight into what climate change means for birds, and the potential consequences of ignoring these warning signs."

Bird Conservation and Agriculture

Jeremy D. Wilson, Andrew D. Evans, Philip V. Grice

Cambridge University Press

2009

"Writing for researchers, professionals and graduate students, the authors summarize the collapse of populations of many farmland bird species in the 20th century, one of the biggest conservation problems of the day. They firstly set the historical context of change in agriculture and bird communities since the 18th century, and introduce the bird communities of agricultural land today. They then provide an overview of this very active area of applied conservation science, including in-depth case studies of 16 species that, taken together, illustrate the many ways that agricultural intensification has affected bird populations. Moreover, they show how this evidence base, coupled with recent greening of agriculture policy, has provided opportunities to manage agricultural land to better integrate the needs of food production and bird conservation. They conclude by looking forward to challenges that the conservation of bird populations on agricultural land is likely to face in the near future."

Birds

Dale Serjeantson

2009

"Birds is the first book to examine bird remains in archaeology and anthropology. Providing a thorough review of the literature on this topic, it also serves as a guide to the methods of study of bird remains from the past and covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy and osteology, taphonomy, eggs, feathers, and bone tools. It examines the myriad ways in which people have interacted with birds in the past. The volume also includes discussion on the consumption of wild birds, the domestication of birds, cockfighting and falconry, birds in ritual and religion, and the role of birds in ecological reconstruction, providing an up-to-date survey of current knowledge on these topics. Birds will be an invaluable resource for undergraduate and graduate students interested in zooarchaeology and human-animal relations, as well as professional zooarchaeologists, archaeologists, and anthropologists interested in birds and people of the past."

Studies of Mascarene Island Birds

Editor: Anthony William Diamond

2009

"First published in 1987, this volume presents the scientific results of an expedition, promoted by the British Ornithologists' Union, to study the endangered birds of the Mascarene Islands in the Indian Ocean. This group of islands is of unique importance to bird conservation and is perhaps best known as the last home of the famous dodo. Thirty endemic species of birds are already extinct and the populations of several others are now so small as to be of doubtful validity. The data presented here will enable the appropriate government departments and conservation bodies to proceed on the basis of a sound knowledge of the needs of the threatened birds, and it is hoped that the survival of at least a proportion of the unique wildlife of this island group can be ensured. Studies of Mascarene Island Birds will also provide the keen amateur ornithologist with a serious interest in conservation with a direct appreciation of field work aimed at protecting rate species in their natural habitat."

Salt Glands in Birds and Reptiles

M. Peaker & J. L. Linzell

Cambridge University Press

2009

"The aim of the authors in writing this monograph has been to provide a comprehensive and critical, but personal account of salt glands. Papers on salt glands are scattered through a great many different journals. There is therefore a great need for a synthesis of what is known about salt glands. The means by which salt glands perform their vital function of forming and excreting a concentrated salt solution is of great biological importance in understanding salt and water relations in the cells of all living things. In addition to the basic physiology of salt glands there is consideration of their ecological importance, their interaction with other systems of the body, their role in non-marine birds and reptiles and their evolution. Salt glands have interested biologists from a wide range of disciplines. This book brings together the scattered literature and will be a convenient source of reference to those working in the field, as well as providing information for comparative studies and for teaching purposes."

Speciation and Patterns of Diversity

Editor: Roger Butlin, John Bridle and Dolph Schluter

Cambridge University Press

2009

"Bringing together the viewpoints of leading ecologists concerned with the processes that generate patterns of diversity, and evolutionary biologists who focus on mechanisms of speciation, this book opens up discussion in order to broaden understanding of how speciation affects patterns of biological diversity, especially the uneven distribution of diversity across time, space and taxa studied by macroecologists. The contributors discuss questions such as: Are species equivalent units, providing meaningful measures of diversity? To what extent do mechanisms of speciation affect the functional nature and distribution of species diversity? How can speciation rates be measured using molecular phylogenies or data from the fossil record? What are the factors that explain variation in rates? Written for graduate students and academic researchers, the book promotes a more complete understanding of the interaction between mechanisms and rates of speciation and these patterns in biological diversity."

Bird Song: Biological Themes and Variations

C.K. Catchpole and J.B. Slater

2nd edition

2008

"Bird song is one of the most remarkable and impressive sounds in the natural world, and has inspired not only students of natural history, but also great writers, poets and composers. Extensively updated from the first edition, the main thrust of the book is to suggest that the two main functions of song are attracting a mate and defending territory. It shows how this evolutionary pressure has led to the amazing variety and complexity we see in the songs of different species throughout the world. Writing primarily for students and researchers in animal behavior, the authors review over 1000 scientific papers and reveal how scientists are beginning to unravel and understand how and why birds communicate with the elaborate vocalizations we call song. Highly illustrated throughout and written in straightforward language, Bird Song also holds appeal for amateur ornithologists with some knowledge of biology."

Neuroscience of Birdsong

Editor: H. Philip Zeigler, Peter Marler

2008

"Speech has long been thought of as a uniquely defining characteristic of humans. Yet song birds, like humans, communicate using learned signals (song, speech) that are acquired from their parents by a process of vocal imitation. Both song and speech begin as amorphous vocalizations (subsong, babble) that are gradually transformed into an individualized version of the parent's speech, including dialects. With contributions from both the founding forefathers and younger researchers who represent the future of this field, this book provides a comprehensive summary of birdsong neurobiology, and identifies the common brain mechanisms underlying this achievement in both birds and humans. Written primarily for advanced graduates and researchers, there is an introductory overview covering song learning, the parallels between language and birdsong and the relationship between the brains of birds and mammals; subsequent sections deal with producing, processing, learning and recognizing song, as well as with hormonal and genomic mechanisms."

The Little Owl: Conservation, Ecology and Behavior of Athene noctua

Dries van Nieuwenhuyse, Jean-Claude Genot and David H. Johnson

2008/2011

"Our understanding of the basic biology of owls is poor compared to that of other bird species. The Little Owl, Athene noctua, has become one of the best models for biological and conservation research, due to its commonness and the fact that it occupies nest-boxes very easily. In this unique book the authors synthesise the substantial literature, and detail current information regarding the Little Owl. They discuss its wide-ranging ecology, genetics and subspecies and population status by country. In addition, they outline a strategy and monitoring program for its conservation. The book features an outstanding bibliography of literature on the Little Owl, listing publications dated from 1769 to 2007, in many languages, including Russian, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian and Dutch. Whilst being an invaluable resource for academic researchers, its straightforward style holds undoubted appeal for amateurs and enthusiasts."

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Skua and Penguin: Predator and Prey

Euan Young

Cambridge University Press

2005

"Areas of barren rock and scree around the edge of Antarctica provide a breeding ground for two of the continent's most well-known species of bird: the south polar skua and the Adélie penguin. This book considers the relationship between these two species, taking as its study site Ross Island. Through detailed observations of the foraging ecology of the skua, the traditional view that skuas are totally dependent on penguin eggs and chicks for food is challenged. In addition, studies of the impact of skuas on penguin breeding and the extent to which the skua breeding cycle is functionally related to that of the penguin provide further evidence to suggest that the two species occur together independently as a consequence of limited breeding space, rather than as a result of a distinct predator-prey relationship."

Social Influences on Vocal Development

Editor: Charles T. Snowdon & Martine Hausberger

2005

"For at least 30 years, there have been close parallels between studies of birdsong development and those of the development of human language. Both song and language require species-specific stimulation at a sensitive period in development and subsequent practice through subsong and plastic song in birds and babbling in infant humans leading to the development of characteristic vocalisations for each species. This book illustrates how social interactions during development can shape vocal learning and extend the sensitive period beyond infancy and how social companions can induce flexibility even into adulthood. Social companions in a wide range of species including birds and humans but also cetaceans and nonhuman primates play important roles in shaping vocal production as well as the comprehension and appropriate usage of vocal communication."

Ecology and Evolution of Cooperative Breeding in Birds

Editor: Walter Koenig and Janis Dickinson

2004

"Cooperative breeders are species in which more than a pair of individuals assist in the production of young. Cooperative breeding is found in only a few hundred bird species world-wide, and understanding this often strikingly altruistic behaviour has remained an important challenge in behavioural ecology for over 30 years. This book highlights the theoretical, empirical and technical advances that have taken place in the field of cooperative breeding research since the publication of the seminal work Cooperative Breeding in Birds: Long-term Studies of Behavior and Ecology. Organized conceptually, special attention is given to ways in which cooperative breeders have proved fertile subjects for testing modern advances to classic evolutionary problems including those of sexual selection, sex-ratio manipulation, life-history evolution, partitioning of reproduction and incest avoidance. It will be of interest to both students and researchers interested in behaviour and ecology."

Egg Incubation: Its Effects on Embryonic Development in Birds and Reptiles

Editor: D. Charles Deeming, Mark W. J. Ferguson

2004

"This book reviews comprehensively incubation effects on embryonic development in birds and reptiles and presents the first ever synthesis of data from these two vertebrate classes. The book is in three parts. The first deals with the structure, shape and function of eggs. The second examines the effects of the four main parameters on the process of incubation: temperature, water relations, respiratory gas exchange, and turning. The third section deals with early embryonic development and the methods used to investigate and manipulate the embryo. Further chapters deal with aestivation, megapodes and oviparity. International experts in each field have contributed to this extensively referenced volume and it will be of great interest not only to research biologists, but also to bird and reptile breeders, whether in commercial organisations or in zoos."

Avian Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Lewis Stevens

2004

"The biology of birds is diverse and frequently differs significantly from that of other vertebrates. Many birds migrate or fly at high altitudes, while egg-laying and feather production places high demands on nutrient uptake and storage. This book is the only comprehensive and up-to-date survey of avian biochemistry and molecular biology available. It emphasises the similarities and differences between birds and other vertebrates, concentrating on new developments. The first section deals with protein, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, its hormonal control and the adaptations that occur in birds. The second covers the avian genome, gene expression, and avian immunology. Growth and embryological development are also discussed. Avian Biochemistry and Molecular Biology will be of interest to all those working on birds, especially postgraduate students and researchers."

Birds, Scythes and Combines: A History of Birds and Agricultural Change

Michael Shrubb

2003

"Birds, Scythes and Combines provides an historical perspective to changes in farmland bird populations in Britain over the past 250 years. Includes introductory chapters on agricultural history and farmland birds. Subsequent chapters deal with arable farming systems, enclosure, hedges, drainage, weeding and pesticides, grassland and stock, Winter food resources and labour, machines and buildings."

Monogamy: Mating Strategies and Partnerships in Birds, Humans and Other Mammals

Editor: Ulrich H. Reichard, Christophe Boesch

2003

"Why do males of some species live with a single mate when they are capable of fertilizing more than one female's eggs? Why do some females pair only with one male, and not with several partners? Why do birds usually live in pairs and feed chicks together whilst mammals often live in larger groups with females rearing their young without male help? These questions form the central theme of this book. Social monogamy is a complex, multi-faceted phenomenon that does not always correspond with reproductive monogamy, so a paired male may not necessarily be raising his own offspring. Exploring the variables influencing and maintaining the fascinating diversity of social, sexual and reproductive monogamous partnerships in birds, mammals and humans, this book provides clues to the biological roots of monogamy for students and researchers in behavioural ecology, evolutionary anthropology, primatology, zoology and ornithology."

Bird Song: Biological Themes and Variations

C.K. Catchpole and J.B. Slater

2003

"This book explores the study of bird song from the biological viewpoint, reviewing the literature written on the subject and considering its intricate nature. It is written with a wide readership in mind so that, while undergraduate and postgraduate students of biology may gain particularly from it, both professional biologists interested in bird behaviour and amateur ornithologists with some knowledge of biology will also find it a mine of information."

Prodigious Birds: Moas and Moa Hunting in New Zealand

Atholl Anderson

2003 (orig publ 1990)

"Prodigious Birds brings together the entire field of moa-related research, some 150 years of enquiry. The moa was a large flightless bird, hunted into extinction by the Maori tribes of New Zealand before the arrival of Europeans. Atholl Anderson brings an historical perspective to the development of moa research and its formative debates, analytical methods and results, reviewing evidence from palaeontology, biology, archaeology, ethnography and history."

Conserving Bird Biodiversity: General Principles and their Application

Editor: Ken Norris, Deborah J. Pain

2002

"The earth's biodiversity currently faces an extinction crisis that is unprecedented. Conservationists attempt to intervene in the extinction process either locally by protecting or restoring important species and habitats, or at national and international levels by influencing key policies and promoting debate. Reliable information is the foundation upon which these efforts are based, which places research at the heart of biodiversity conservation. The role of research in such conservation is diverse. It includes understanding why biodiversity is important, defining 'units' of biodiversity, priority-setting for species and sites, managing endangered and declining populations, understanding large-scale processes, making predictions about the future and interfacing with training, education, public awareness and policy initiatives. Using examples from a wide range of bird conservation work worldwide, researchers consider the principles underlying these issues, and illustrate how these principles have been applied to address actual conservation problems for students, practitioners and researchers in conservation biology."

Bird Nests and Construction Behaviour

Mike Hansell

2000

"Bird Nests and Construction Behaviour provides a broad view of our understanding of the biology of the nests, bowers and tools made by birds. It illustrates how, among vertebrates, the building abilities of birds are more impressive and consistent than for any other builders other than ourselves, yet birds seem to require no special equipment, and use quite uncomplicated behaviour. In doing so, the book raises general issues in the field of behavioural ecology including the costs of reproduction, sexual selection and the organisation and complexity of behaviour. Written for students and researchers of animal behaviour, behavioural ecology and ornithology, it will nevertheless make fascinating reading for architects and engineers interested in understanding how structures are created by animals."

Wetland Birds: Habitat Resources and Conservation Implications

Milton W. Weller

1999

"A study of the ecology of wetland birds that identifies patterns of habitat use and typical bird communities that result from the use of resources such as food, cover and breeding sites."

Barn Owls: Predator-Prey Relationships and Conservation

Iain Taylor

1994, revised 2004

"This book explores the relationships between barn owls and their prey worldwide, and demonstrates how an understanding of such relationships can help in the conservation of the species. In this comprehensive account, Iain Taylor describes the biology and ecology of this species, including the factors affecting breeding success, and causes of mortality affecting the final recruitment of new birds into the population. He concludes by suggesting ways in which we can manage and conserve this beautiful bird for the future."

Bird Migration

Thomas Alerstam

Cambridge University Press

1993

"The aim of this book is to give an overview of the whole migration phenomenon. The first of the three main sections presents the life histories and migratory habits of nine different ecological categories of birds. The second section investigates the course and timing of flight journeys, flight behaviour, fuel economy, flocking, and the hazards from disorientation and predation. The final section covers bird navigation."

The Ecology of Bird Communities, Volume 2: Processes and Variations

John A. Wiens

1992

"The two volumes of John Wiens' Ecology of Bird Communities have applications and importance to the whole field of ecology. The books contain a detailed synthesis of our current understanding of the patterns of organisation of bird communities and of the factors that may determine them, drawing from studies from all over the world. By emphasizing how proper logic and methods have or have not been followed and how different viewpoints have developed historically and have led to controversy, the scope of these books are extended far beyond the study of birds. Processes and Variations discusses the way in which bird community patterns have been interpreted. This second volume examines how the complexity and variability of natural environments may influence efforts to discern and understand the nature of these communities. Graduate students and professionals in avian biology and ecology will find these volumes a valuable stimulus and guide to future field studies and theory development."

The Ecology of Bird Communities, Volume 1: Foundations and Patterns

John A. Wiens

1992

"The two volumes of John Wiens' Ecology of Bird Communities are already recognised as having applications and importance beyond the study of birds to the wider study of ecology in general. The books contain a detailed synthesis of our current understanding of the patterns of organisation of bird communities and of the factors that may determine them, drawing from studies from all over the world. The author, however, does more than simply review recent findings in bird community ecology. By emphasizing how proper logic and methods have or have not been followed and how different viewpoints have developed historically and have led to controversy, he extends the scope of these books far beyond the study of birds. Volume 1 Foundations and Patterns explores why avian community ecologists ask the questions they do and what philosophical and methodological approaches they have used to answer such questions. Most of the book is devoted to a critical evaluation of what is known about the nature and organisation of bird communities."

The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Ornithology

Editor: M. Brooke and T. Birkhead

1991

"Comprehensive encyclopedia, arranged by subject rather than alphabetically, covering all aspects of avian science. With contributions from an international team of ornithologists, it covers anatomy and physiology, movement, birds ancient to modern, daily activities of birds, distribution, migration and navigation, populations, breeding, behaviour, and relationships with man, including conservation."

Cooperative Breeding in Birds

Editor: Peter B. Stacey and Walter D. Koenig

1990

"Cooperative breeding is an unusual kind of social behaviour, found in a few hundred species worldwide, in which individuals other than the parents help raise young. Understanding the apparently altruistic behaviour of helpers has provided numerous challenges to evolutionary biologists. This book includes detailed first-hand summaries of many of the major empirical studies of cooperatively breeding birds. It provides comparative information on the demography, social behaviour and behavioural ecology of these unusual species and explores the diversity of ideas and the controversies which have developed in this field. The studies are all long-term and consequently the book summarises some of the most extensive studies of the behaviour of marked individuals ever undertaken. Graduate students and research workers in ornithology, sociobiology, behavioural ecology and evolutionary biology will find much of value in this book."

A Photographic Guide to the Birds of Jamaica

Audrey Downer, Robert Sutton

Cambridge University Press

1990

"A field guide to the birds of Jamaica including many birds never photographed before. It is a compilation of knowledge gleaned over a 25-year period of bird watching, bird ringing and bird song recording. All endemic species and subspecies unique to the Caribbean are described in detail."

The Birds of Cambridgeshire

P.M.M. Bircham

1989

"David Lack produced the first Birds of Cambridgeshire in 1934 for the Cambridge Bird Club. Since then the avifauna of the county has changed dramatically and the body of the information gathered, largely by amateur birdwatchers, has grown enormously. The bulk of the book is, like Lack's original, an annotated systematic list of the species recorded, but the book is made even more valuable by the inclusion of introductory chapters dealing with the Cambridgeshire countryside and where to go birdwatching. Graham Easy's excellent line drawings illustrate some of the county's characteristic species."

Ospreys: A Natural And Unnatural History

Alan Poole

Cambridge university Press

1989

A study of the natural history and biology of the Osprey. Includes sections on the successful conservation projects in Scotland and New England.

Studies of Mascarene Island Birds

Editor: Anthony William Diamond

1987

Reprint: 2009

Save The Birds

Anthony W. Diamond, Rudolf L. Schreiber, David Attenborough, Ian Prestt

Cambridge University Press

1987

"Save the Birds is about the endangered birds of the world, why they are threatened, and what actions are being taken and should be taken to ensure their survival. This unique book spearheads an international campaign for the conservation of the world`s threatened birdlife - the save the birds world campaign. Written by experts for a broad audience ranging from children and teachers to conservationists, scientists, government leaders, and policy makers. Covers all the major natural environments of the earth, with examples of the endangered species of those environments. With over 600 colour illustrations (500 colour photographs, 55 specially commissioned bird portraits, 60 maps and diagrams) the book provides a unique visual record of the rare and endangered bird species of our planet."

Farming and Birds

Raymond J. O'Connor and Michael Shrubb

Cambridge University Press

1986

Reprint: 1990

"This attractively illustrated book reviews the effects of agricultural development on bird populations in Britain. Examining modern farmland as a bird habitat, it explains the changes, both in habitat structure and in available resources, that have occurred as a result of mechanisation and use of agrochemicals. Farmland bird communities are described, and their composition related to farm structure and land use. Based extensively on empirical data extracted from the British Trust for Ornithology's Common Bird Census and from nest histories recorded in the BTO'S Nest Record Scheme, the book presents an important analysis of the position of agricultural bird populations under modern farming systems. Particular examination has been made of the impact of changing methods, rotations and crops, which have been underestimated in the past. Resulting from the co-operation between a professional ornithologist and a working cereal farmer, this book provides an objective and informed view of the impact of British agriculture on bird populations."

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Wildfowl in Great Britain

Myrfyn Owen, G.L. Atkinson-Willes, and D.G. Salmon

Cambridge University Press

1986

"Here in one volume the Wildfowl Trust, supported by the Nature Conservancy Council, presents a synthesis of detailed data collected by a wide range of enthusiasts on the distribution of wildfowl and their major habitats. The importance of sensitive conservation planning is stressed as is the vulnerability of wetlands to modern technology. The international dimension of wildfowl conservation is also well covered, especially by the clear maps of ringing recoveries and migration routes. This book emphasises the need for international action in conserving wetlands and stresses the benefits enjoyed by the fortunate countries endowed with these habitats. "

The book includes maps of ringing recoveries and migration routes and line drawings by Sir Peter Scott.

Seabirds: Feeding Ecology and Role in Marine Ecosystems

Editor: J.P. Croxall

1986

Reprint: 2009

"Originally published in 1986, this book is concerned with the ways in which seabirds function as predators in the marine environment; in particular about how they find and catch food and how much of it they consume. It reviews both the feeding ecology of seabirds (including adaptations for flight and diving) and also most of the leading field studies (in polar, temperate and tropical regions) that have quantitatively examined the interactions of seabird communities with their prey."

Coastal Waders and Wildfowl in Winter

Editor: P. R. Evans, J. D. Goss-Custard, W. G. Hale

Cambridge University Press

1986

Reprint in 2011

"This 1984 book arose from an international meeting held at Texel in the Netherlands in April 1981 to discuss the feeding requirements and behaviour of shorebirds and coastal wildfowl. The book was designed both for general ornithologists, so that they may advise planners concerned with coastal wetlands, and for research workers interested in bird ecology and behaviour. The book is divided into three sections, each the responsibility of one of the editors, who provides a brief section introduction. The first covers bird numbers in relation to food resources; the second relates population densities to social and individual behaviour of birds within the flocks, and the third examines the role of areas of particular significance to migrant shorebirds along the route from West Africa to the high-latitude breeding grounds stretching from Greenland to western Siberia. This volume was produced in conjunction with the British Ornithologists' Union."

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The Arctic Skua: A study of the ecology and evolution of a seabird

Peter O'Donald

Cambridge University Press

1983

Perspectives in Ornithology: Essays Presented for the Centennial of The American Ornithologists' Union

Editor: Alan H. Brush and George A. Clark Jr.

1983

Reprint 2009

"First published in 1983 to celebrate the centennial of the American Ornithologists' Union, Perspectives in Ornithology collects together a series of essays and commentaries by leading authorities about especially active areas of research on the biology of birds. Readers will find in this collection a useful overview of many major concepts and controversies in ornithology."

The Shelduck: A Study in Behavioural Ecology

I.J. Patterson and Chris Furse

1982

A 276 page study.

Biology of Behaviour

Donald M. Broom

Cambridge University Press

1981

A Nature Conservation Review

Derek A. Ratcliffe

Cambridge University Press

1977

Reprint: 2011

"Analyses and describes the range of variation in the wild flora and fauna of Britain and identifies important sites that exemplify this rich heritage. These key sites were chosen to represent all the main types of natural and semi-natural vegetation with their characteristic communities of plants and animals. The range of habitats, communities and species is classified under major formations, and in Volume 1, these are subdivided and described. In Volume 2, the 735 chosen sites are described. They include areas in both public and private ownership as well as nature reserves. Location and size are given, with an account of other specific features. The internationally applicable criteria for evaluating and selecting key sites are also fully discussed. Cambridge University Press published the Review on behalf of the Nature Conservancy Council and the Natural Environment Research Council."

Buy reprint of volume 2 from amazon.co.uk

Granivorous Birds in Ecosystems: Their Evolution, Populations, Energetics, Adaptations, Impact and Control

Editor: Jan Pinowski, S. Charles Kendeigh

Cambridge University Press

1977

Reprint: 2012

"Deals with the importance of weed seed and grain-eating birds in natural and agricultural environments. These birds are to be found worldwide and are a component of man-made ecosystems where they are associated with man's main food crops."

Bird Vocalizations: Their Relations to Current Problems in Biology and Psychology

Editor: R.A. Hinde

1969

Bird Navigation

G.V.Y. Matthews

2nd edition

1968

"Many species of birds travel thousands of miles from their breeding grounds to their winter quarters, to return again the following spring. How do they find their way? How is it that young and inexperienced birds are able to travel independently of their parents and still reach their destination? The first edition of Dr Matthews' monograph, published in 1955, summarised the experimental work which had been done up until that time and this second edition has built upon that important contribution, with extensive changes. Several developments are described, namely, the discovery that birds can orientate with reference to star patterns, the use of radar to follow migration by night as well as by day, and the attachment of miniature radio-transmitters to birds so that their individual flights can be followed. A new class of unexplained 'nonsense' orientation is also brought to light."

Bird-Song: The Biology of Vocal Communication and Expression in Birds

W.H. Thorpe

Cambridge University Press

1961

Darwin's Finches

David Lack

1947 (Reissued 1961 & 1983)

Classic study of the Darwin's Finches of the Galapagos.

A Waterhen's World

Eliot Howard

Cambridge University Press

1940

A 64 page study with many illustrations.

Birds Display: An Introduction to the Study of Bird Psychology

E.A. Armstrong

1940

International Wildfowl Inquiry, Vol. II The Status and Distribution of Wild Geese and Wild Duck in Scotland

J. Berry

1939

A report on status and distribution of geese and ducks that examines reasons for declining numbers. The book has sections on Greylag Geese, Greater White-fronted Geese, Bean Geese, Pink-footed Geese, Snow Geese, Brant Geese and Canada Geese. The second section of the book covers 21 species of ducks.

An Introduction To The Study Of Bird Behaviour

H. Eliot Howard

Cambridge University Press

1929