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Raptors

UK raptors

Buzzards
Golden Eagle
Goshawk
Harriers
Hobby
Kestrel
Merlin
Osprey
Peregrine
Red Kite
Sparrowhawk

Also see:

British Owls

World raptors

Eagles
Falcons
Harriers
Vultures/Condors

Also see:

World Owls

Raptors of Mexico and Central America

William S. Clark & N. John Schmitt

2017

"The essential field guide to the raptors of Mexico and Central America Raptors are among the most challenging birds to identify in the field due to their bewildering variability of plumage, flight silhouettes, and behavior. Raptors of Mexico and Central America is the first illustrated guide to the region's 69 species of raptors, including vagrants. It features 32 stunning color plates and 213 color photos, and a distribution map for each regularly occurring species. Detailed species accounts describe key identification features, age-related plumages, status and distribution, subspecies, molt, habitats, behaviors, potential confusion species, and more. Raptors of Mexico and Central America is the essential field guide to this difficult bird group and the ideal travel companion for anyone visiting this region of the world."

Birds of Prey: Hawks, Eagles, Falcons, and Vultures of North America

Pete Dunne with Kevin T. Karlson

2017

"Always a popular group of birds, raptors symbolise freedom and fierceness, and in Pete Dunne's definitive guide, these traits are portrayed in hundreds of stunning colour photographs showing raptors up close, in flight, and in action – fighting, hunting, and nesting. These gorgeous photographs enhance the comprehensive, authoritative text, which goes far beyond identification to cover raptor ecology, behaviour, conservation, and much more. In returning to his forte and his first love, Pete Dunne has crafted a benchmark book on raptors: the first place to turn for any question about these highly popular birds, whether it's what they eat, where they live, or how they behave."

Raptors: The Curious Nature of Diurnal Birds of Prey

Keith L Bilstein

2017

"Keith L. Bildstein has watched and studied raptors on five continents and is well prepared to explain their critical importance, not only as ecological entities but also as inspirational tokens across natural and human-dominated landscapes. His book offers a comprehensive and accessible account of raptors, including their evolutionary history, their relationships to other groups of birds, their sensory abilities, their general natural history, their breeding ecology and feeding behavior, and threats to their survival in a human-dominated world. Biologically sound but readable, Raptors is a nontechnical overview of this captivating group. It will allow naturalists, birders, hawk-watchers, science educators, schoolchildren, and the general public, along with new students in the field of raptor biology, to understand and appreciate these birds, and in so doing better protect them."

Birds of Prey and Wind Farms: Analysis of Problems and Possible Solutions

Hermann Hötker, Oliver Krone, Georg Nehls

2017

"Birds of Prey and Wind Farms discusses the increase in number and capacity of wind farms in Germany and how this is affecting birds of prey. Several methods are used to study the behaviour of birds of prey in relation to wind farms, including telemetry data, field observations, and comparisons of turbine base areas. Special attention is given to the effects on different bird species and the impact wind farms may have on population growth and breeding success of birds of prey. Chapter 6 discusses the collision risks at wind turbines and provides an analysis of the fatalities. In the concluding chapter, ideas are put forward to help minimize conflicts, estimate risks, and offer practical recommendations for future research."

Flight Identification of Raptors of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East

Dick Forsman

Christopher Helm

2016

"This book is the ultimate flight-identification guide for the raptors of the Western Palaearctic, covering Europe, North Africa, the Middle East (including Arabia) to Central Asia. It provides identification information for all 60 species that regularly occur in the region. going to subspecific level wherever needed. The text covers every plumage and age in detail, with each species account accompanied by a range of photographs covering all the principal plumages. Based on this stunning photographic coverage, most of which has never been published before, this book represents a landmark in bird identification books and a major work for all raptor enthusiasts."

Raptor: A Journey Through Birds

James MacDonald Lockart

2016

"Of all the birds of the British Isles, the raptor reigns supreme, sparking the imagination like no other. In this magnificent hymn to these beautiful animals, James Macdonald Lockhart explores all fifteen breeding birds of prey on these shores – from the hen harrier swimming over the land in the dregs of a May gale on Orkney, to the ghostly sparrowhawk displaying in the fields around his home in Warwickshire. This is a book that will change how we think of our own skies."

Raptors in Focus: A Quest to Find Birds of Prey in Europe and Beyond

Dick Forsman

2016

"Join Dick Forsman, widely acclaimed as the world expert on the birds of prey of the Western Palearctic and beyond, in his quest to find and photograph all the raptors of Europe, throughout dozens of trips to all corners of the continent, over a period of more than a decade. The result is a remarkable book which will be on the 'wish list' of bird enthusiastics worldwide."

Identifying Birds of Prey: Quick Reference Guide for Eastern North America

Laura Erickson

2016

"An engaging quick-reference guide to the basics of identifying hawks, eagles, falcons, vultures, and kites in flight. Includes color photos and simplified outlines showing key features of each species, as well as range maps and comparison spreads Perfect for the beginning hawk watcher or for any outdoors-lover who wants to know more about daytime birds of prey."

Australian Predators of the Sky

Penny Olsen

2015

"This book begins with fascinating descriptions by award-winning natural history author Penny Olsen on the discovery and illustration of birds of prey in Australia, and their characteristics and ecology, followed by full-colour illustrations of each species by a variety of artists, accompanied by intriguing notes about the birds. 'Australian Predators of the Sky' comprises over 200 striking paintings, lithographs and engravings of all 34 Australian species-25 diurnal birds of prey such as eagles, hawks and falcons, and nine owls such as hawk-owls and barn-owls."

Birds of Prey

Todd Telander

Falcon Press

2015

"A field guide to the 55 birds of prey in North America. Anatomically correct illustrations of the birds in flight and on the ground and detailed descriptions about each bird's prominent physical attributes and natural habitat make it easy to identify birds in your backyard, favorite parks, and wildlife areas. Informative and beautiful to peruse, this is the essential resource when you're out in the field."

A Sparrowhawk's Lament: How British Breeding Birds of Prey are Faring

David Cobham with Bruce Pearson

2014

"In this handsomely illustrated book, acclaimed British filmmaker and naturalist David Cobham offers unique and deeply personal insights into Britain's birds of prey and how they are faring today. He delves into the history of these marvelous birds and talks in depth with the scientists and conservationists who are striving to safeguard them. In doing so, he profiles the writers, poets, and filmmakers who have done so much to change the public's perception of birds of prey. Thanks to popular television programs, the Victorian myth that any bird with a hooked beak is evil has been dispelled. However, although there are success stories - five birds of prey that were extinct have become reestablished with viable populations - persecution is still rife: so much so that one bird of prey, the Hen Harrier, became extinct in England as a breeding bird in 2013. Featuring drawings by famed wildlife artist Bruce Pearson, this book reveals why we must cherish and celebrate our birds of prey, and why we neglect them at our peril."

Australian High Country Raptors

Jerry Olsen

2014

"Australian High Country Raptors covers raptor species that regularly breed in the high country above 600 metres, from Goulburn in New South Wales down to the hills outside Melbourne, Victoria. Author Jerry Olsen explores the nature of these striking animals that are classified as Accipitriformes (hawks, falcons, kites and eagles), Falconiformes and Strigiformes (nocturnal owls). Comparisons between these high country raptors and lower-elevation breeders are also provided, in addition to comparisons with raptors found overseas, especially from North America and Europe. Australian High Country Raptors begins with a description of habitats and vegetation types in the high country, and which raptors are likely to be seen in each habitat type. It continues with sections on finding and watching raptors, raptor identification, hunting styles, food, breeding and behaviour, and conservation. Appendices provide species accounts for diurnal breeding species in the high country, with basic information about their ecology, distribution and conservation."

The Crossley ID Guide: Raptors

Richard Crossley, Jerry Liguori, Brian Sullivan

2013

"Part of the revolutionary Crossley ID Guide series, this is the first raptor guide with lifelike scenes composed from multiple photographs - scenes that allow you to identify raptors just as the experts do. Experienced birders use the most easily observed and consistent characteristics - size, shape, behavior, probability, and general color patterns. The book's 101 scenes - including thirty-five double-page layouts - provide a complete picture of how these features are all related. Even the effects of lighting and other real-world conditions are illustrated and explained. Detailed and succinct accounts from two of North America's foremost raptor experts, Jerry Liguori and Brian Sullivan, stress the key identification features. This complete picture allows everyone from beginner to expert to understand and enjoy what he or she sees in the field. The mystique of bird identification is eliminated, allowing even novice birders to identify raptors quickly and simply. Comprehensive and authoritative, the book covers all thirty-four of North America's diurnal raptor species (all species except owls). Each species is featured in stunning color plates that show males and females, in a full spectrum of ages and color variants, depicted near and far, in flight and at rest, and from multiple angles, all caught in their typical habitats. There are also comparative, multispecies scenes and mystery photographs that allow readers to test their identification skills, along with answers and full explanations in the back of the book. In addition, the book features an introduction, and thirty-four color maps accompany the plates."

Raptors: A Field Guide to Surveying and Monitoring

Jon Hardey, Humphrey Crick, Chris Wernham, Helen Riley, Brian Etheridge and Des Thompson

3rd edition

2013

"This is the Third Edition of the extremely popular and bestselling field guide to surveys and monitoring of raptors. Raptors: A Field Guide for Surveys and Monitoring aims to promote best practice for fieldwork, drawing on the knowledge and experience of more than 300 raptor specialists, especially members of the Raptor Study Groups. Incorporating new information and feedback from raptor fieldworkers on the second edition, it covers all birds of prey (diurnal raptors and owls) which occur regularly in Britain and Ireland. At a time when many raptors in Britain and Ireland are recovering from low populations in the mid to late 20th Century, or earlier, there are increasing demands for high quality information on numbers, distribution and population trends of birds of prey. As with earlier editions, Raptors: A Field Guide for Surveys and Monitoring is written for people who watch, survey and monitor raptors. It is hoped that it will provide a starting point for anyone wanting to begin a raptor study, and indeed that it will help inspire a new generation of raptor ecologists."

The Book of Raptors

Marcos Lacasa

2013

"The Book of Raptors is the answer for all those bird fans who have longed to have a book that offers both a high technical quality and that is also illustrated. More than 20 top level scientists and specialists have developed the 23 chapters covering those raptors that are most representative of Europe. The best nature photographers, some of whom have been awarded the world's most prestigious prizes, bring colour to a book that gives us a different perspective from everything published beforehand. All the basic information about each of the species dealt with is summarized in a fact sheet at the end of each chapter thereby leaving the rest of the text to explain the recent experiences of management and previously unpublished characteristics, sharing with the reader through scientific rigour, in an entertaining and direct manner, all the information needed to become an expert in the world of the birds of prey."

The Raptors of Iowa

James F. Landenberger

2013

"This long-awaited collection of James Landenberger's paintings of Iowa birds of prey presents thirty-two full-page, full-color species, from the common turkey vulture to the red-shouldered hawk of Mississippi River woodlands to the little northern saw-whet owl. Four naturalists who have devoted their lives to conserving wilderness habitats and species have written essays to complement the paintings."

Ecology of the Cooper's Hawk in North Florida

Brian A. Millsap, Timothy F. Breen and Laura M. Phillips

Fish And Wildlife Service

US Department Of The Interior

2013

From the abstract:

We studied adult Cooper's hawks Accipiter cooperii on two study areas in north Florida from 1995 to 2001, an area dominated by large plantations managed for northern bobwhite Colinus virginianus and an area of mixed farmland and woods with no direct bobwhite management. We monitored 76 Cooper's hawk nesting attempts at 31 discrete nest areas, and radio-tagged 19 breeding males and 30 breeding females that we radio-tracked for up to 5 y. Nesting density (565 to 1,494 ha per occupied nest area) was comparable but productivity (1.8 and 2.8 young fledged per occupied and successful nest area, respectively) was lower than for the species elsewhere. Prey may have been more limiting than in other areas studied because chipmunks Tamias striatus , an important prey elsewhere, were absent. Annual Cooper's hawk survival averaged 84% for males and 81% for females, except in 1998 when survival was substantially lower.

Ecology and Conservation of European Forest-Dwelling Raptors

Editor: Ińigo Zuberogoitia, José Enrique Martínez

2012

"This book, prepared by a leading group of European specialists in birds of prey, has been designed to review the current research in European forest-dwelling raptors. It deals with the methodologies used to assess the status of owls and raptors, their demographic trends, some relevant aspects of their biology and the potential impact on their populations of some traditional and emerging threats. It is thus a splendid tool to evaluate what happens today with this key group of birds and to plan future research programs directed to improve the conservation of European forest biodiversity."

Neotropical Birds of Prey: Biology and Ecology of a Forest Raptor Community

Editor: David F. Whitacre

2012

"The Peregrine Fund conducted a significant eight-year-long research program on the raptor species, including owls, in Tikal National Park in Guatemala to learn more about Neotropical birds of prey. Impressive and unprecedented in scale, this pioneering research also involved the development of new methods for detecting, enumerating, and studying these magnificent but often elusive birds in their forest home. Beautifully illustrated with photographs of previously little-known species, the resulting book is the most important single source for information on the lowland tropical forest raptor species found in Central America. Neotropical Birds of Prey covers twenty specific species in depth, including the ornate hawk-eagle, the barred forest-falcon, the bat falcon, and the Mexican wood owl, offering thorough synopses of all current knowledge regarding breeding biology and behavior, diet, habitat use, and spatial needs. Contributors to this landmark work also show how the populations fit together as a community with overlapping habitat and prey needs that can put them in competition with reptiles and mammalian carnivores as well, yet differ from one another in their nesting or feeding behaviors and population dynamics."

The Raptor Guide of Southern Africa

Ulrich Oberprieler

2nd edition

2012

A 380 page guide with over 800 colour photographs and detailed text describing distribution, behavoir, status, ecology and identification. Covers all diurnal and nocturnal raptors of Southern Africa.

Hawks in Flight

Pete Dunne, David Allen Sibley and Clay Sutton

2012

"Among the world's most popular birds, hawks can be some of the most difficult birds to identify. They're most often seen flying high above and at a distance. In the first edition of Hawks in Flight, Pete Dunne, David Sibley, and Clay Sutton presented a holistic method of hawk identification, using general body shape, the way they move, and the places they are most likely to be seen. The new edition of Hawks in Flight, which Roger Tory Peterson called a "landmark", integrates an array of carefully selected photographs, David Sibley's superb illustrations, and a clear, information-packed text and takes raptor identification to a higher level. This edition covers all of the raptors that breed in North America, including those with limited ranges in Florida, the Southwest, and Texas. Picking up where its predecessor ended by including two decades of raptor identification refinement, Hawks in Flight summarizes and places in users' hands an identification skill set that used to take years to master. The unique alchemy of Dunne, Sibley, and Sutton – including their collective experience of more than one hundred years watching hawks – make Hawks in Flight a singular achievement and a must-have for anyone interested in hawks."

Hawks at a Distance: Identification of Migrant Raptors

Jerry Liguori

Princeton University Press

2011

"The ultimate must-have guide for identifying migrant raptors, Hawks at a Distance is the first volume to focus on distant raptors as they are truly seen in the field. Jerry Liguori, a leading expert on North American raptors, factors in new information and approaches for identifying twenty-nine species of raptor in various lighting situations and settings. The field guide's nineteen full-color portraits, 558 color photos, and 896 black-and-white images portray shapes and plumages for each species from all angles. Useful flight identification criteria are provided and the accompanying text discusses all aspects of in-flight hawk identification, including flight style and behavior. Concentrating on features that are genuinely observable at a distance, this concise and practical field guide is ideal for any aspiring or experienced hawk enthusiast."

Birds of Prey of Australia: Field Guide

Stephen Debus

2nd edition

2012

"Birds of Prey of Australia is an illustrated field guide to diurnal raptors, a bird group that many people find among the most difficult birds to identify. Raptors are popular and iconic birds, and important ecologically as well as in legislation, with some species listed as threatened. Birds of Prey of Australia will enable people to more easily identify them. It also provides a brief overview of the biology of raptors and an indication of the current state of knowledge on them. Birds of Prey of Australia has been completely revised and updated, with 15 years of new data, a section on difficult species-pairs (split-images providing direct contrast), and rearranged in modern field-guide format, making it easy to use and enabling rapid identification of 'difficult' raptors."

Hawks and Owls of Eastern North America

Chris G. Earley

2012

"With their legendary nocturnal behavior, a preference for remote habitats, changing migratory patterns, and swift flight speeds, birds of prey are particularly difficult to identify and track. "Hawks and Owls of Eastern North America" depicts the subtle differences and rich diversity among these magnificent birds. Precise identification notes and more than 200 crisp, clean photographs aid in quick and accurate classifications of a variety of raptors. The book profiles 39 species among the New World vultures, osprey, kites, eagles, hawks and allies, falcons, owls and vagrants."

Birds of Prey in the UK: On a Wing and a Prayer

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds

"Birds of Prey in the UK: On a Wing and a Prayer has been produced collaboratively by 26 organisations. It highlights the value and importance of birds of prey in the UK and the conservation success story they represent. It seeks to separate fact from myth, based on evidence and not anecdote. We have published this because, as a group of organisations, we are concerned that a small number of people see birds of prey as a threat and portray their recovery as being 'out of control'. Some people go further, breaking the law, with serious and sad consequences for birds of prey in some parts of the UK. As champions of the natural environment, we can only be content when the populations and distributions of our birds of prey recover fully. For this to happen, full legal protection must be maintained and action taken to stop illegal killing. We wish to see healthy populations of all wildlife and collectively are doing much to restore special habitats, secure more sustainable land management and introduce people to the spectacle of our native wildlife."

Guide to British Birds of Prey

Simon Norman

Occasional Publication Volume 143

Field Studies Council

2012

"Produced in conjunction with the Hawk and Owl Trust, this chart will help you to identify birds of prey in flight in the UK. Colour images of perched and flying birds show all 15 of the species of day-flying birds of prey which breed in the UK. Information on the habitat and range, size, status and flight pattern of each species is given in the text. To help confirm your identification, we have included particular hints for each species as well as highlighting the main areas of confusion."

Hawk Ridge: Minnesota's Birds of Prey

Laura Erickson

University of Minnesota Press

2012

"Written by one of Minnesota's best-known bird authorities, with images by one of the state's favorite illustrators, Hawk Ridge is as fun as it is informative. It introduces the state's raptors, from the rare visitor to the most familiar hawk, noting the signature traits of each species osprey wings, for instance, are crooked to help them catch fish; vultures urinate on their legs to cool themselves as well as their nesting, breeding, and migrating habits. Did you know that Sharp-shinned Hawks banded at Hawk Ridge have been found throughout Central America and even into South America, and also, in midwinter, in Wisconsin? Laura Erickson offers a broad perspective (a bird's-eye view!), making sense of the raptor's role in the larger ornithological scheme. With descriptions of various species and helpful distinctions between species, families, and orders the book gives readers a clear idea of which raptors might be seen in Minnesota, when, where, and how often. It also includes a hawk migration primer that explains the movements that bring these birds in such awe-inspiring numbers to places like Hawk Ridge. Filled with curious facts and practical information for expert and amateur bird-watcher alike, Hawk Ridge is at once a guide to the hawks of Minnesota and a beautifully illustrated album of the most regal members of the avian kingdom."

Birds of Prey of the Indian Subcontinent

Rishad Naoroji

2011

"Birds of Prey of the Indian Subcontinent is a complete guide to the raptors of the Indian subcontinent, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and the Maldives. The huge diversity of habitat types and altitudinal variation gives rise to a correspondingly large avifauna. The diurnal birds of prey are well represented – 70 species of hawk, buzzard, kite, harrier, eagle, vulture, falcon and falconet are found in the region. Each species is shown in all usual plumage forms, in flight and at rest. The species accounts cover all aspects of field identification, and also include sections on distribution, behaviour, status and population."

Raptors of the West: Captured in Photographs

Kate Davis, Rob Palmer, Nick Dunlop

2011

"With their striking looks, keen vision, and hunting prowess, the birds of prey – eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls – have long captured the human imagination. Now this collection of some of the most remarkable and action-packed raptor photographs ever taken, can inspire your own imagination to take flight. This book, the latest collaboration by award- winning photographers Rob Palmer and Nick Dunlop and author/photographer Kate Davis, is a glorious photographic ode to the forty-four birds of prey that roam the skies of the American West."

RSPB British Birds of Prey

Marianne Taylor

2010

"This book is a celebration of British raptors, with 200 stunning colour photographs. An authoritative text examines the biology and ecology of each species, following their fortunes as British breeding birds from historical times to the present day. This book will serve as a showcase of these fabulous birds and highlight the diverse work of the RSPB in ensuring their survival."

Asian Raptors: Science and Conservation for Present and Future

2010

Proceedings of the 6th International Conference on Asian Raptors held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia on 23-27th June 2010.

How Fast Can a Falcon Dive?: Fascinating Answers to Questions About Birds of Prey

Peter Capainolo and Carol A Butler

2010

"This book explores the world of raptors in a way that will appeal to bird lovers and biology enthusiasts alike. Ornithologist Peter Capainolo and science writer Carol A. Butler define and classify raptors, explore the physical attributes of birds of prey, view how their bodies work, and explain the social and physical behaviors of these species - how they communicate, hunt, reproduce, and more. From stories of red-tailed hawks making their homes on the ledges of Manhattan skyscrapers to their role in protecting California's vineyards from flocks of grape-loving starlings, the authors explore how these predators of the sky have adapted to the human world."

The Eagle Watchers: Observing and Conserving Raptors around the World

Editor: Ruth E Tingay and Todd E Katzner

2010

"This book was written by people who have dedicated years to the study of eagles, to provide an insider's view for all readers, but especially those who have never been up close and personal with these magnificent yet often misunderstood creatures. In their stories, twenty-nine leading eagle researchers share their remarkable field experiences, providing personal narratives that don't feature in their scientific publications. They tell of their fear at being stalked by grizzly bears, their surprise at being followed by the secret police, their embarrassment when accidentally firing mortar rockets over a school gymnasium, and their sense of awe at tracking eagles via satellite. The reader experiences the cultural shock of being guest of honor at a circumcision ceremony, the absurdity of sharing an aquatic car with the Khmer Rouge, and the sense of foreboding at being press-ganged into a frenzied tribal death march through the jungle. The Eagle Watchers covers twenty-four species on six continents, from well known (bald eagle; golden eagle), to obscure (black-and-chestnut eagle; New Guinea harpy eagle), and from common (African fish eagle) to critically endangered (Philippine eagle; Madagascar fish eagle). The diverse experiences vividly described in this book reveal the passion, dedication, and sense of adventure shared by those who study these majestic birds and strive for their conservation."

Raptors of New Mexico

Editor: Jean-Luc E. Cartron

2010

"Did you know that the turkey vulture has been seen by pilots soaring as high as 20,000 feet? Or that the Greater Roadrunner scoots along on two spindly legs at speeds of up to 15 miles per hour as it chases down rattlesnakes and hummingbirds for food? These and 143 other species of birds found in the U.S. Southwest are featured in this handy field guide. Arizona birding experts Kurt and Cindy Radamaker have co-authored this easy-to-use guide, which features accurate color illustrations of each species along with range maps and text on characteristics and natural history."

Raptors of the Northeast

Thomas Bosakowski, Dwight G Smith

2010

"A guide to the hawks, owls, vultures, and other raptors of this region of the United States. This is a useful tool for students, educators, amateur naturalists, and wildlife professionals, providing details on the natural history of these fascinating birds, enhanced by color photos."

The Raptor Guide of Southern Africa

Ulrich Oberprieler and Burger Cillie

1st edition

2009

"All Southern African raptors are described, both diurnal and nocturnal species in a user-friendly system of 11 groups which are colour-coded and cross-referenced. This comprehensive text emphasises field recognition, behaviour, feeding methods, breeding and the origin of the name. It includes concise information that indicates measurements, distribution, habitat preference, food and status. It features English, Afrikaans, French, German, Portuguese and scientific names. There are distribution maps that indicate abundance and migratory patterns. It contains both old and new 'Roberts numbers' that are indicated, and features over 600 excellent colour photographs to indicate males, females, juveniles, other colour variations and flight patterns. It also includes colour illustrations of all flight patterns and sonograms to interpret the calls of owls. A comprehensive section on confusing birds is included. This is a must for every birdwatcher and raptorphile."

Raptors: A Field Guide to Surveying and Monitoring

Jon Hardey, Humphrey Crick, Chris Wernham, Helen Riley, Brian Etheridge and Des Thompson

2nd edition

2009

"This is the 2nd edition of the extremely popular and bestselling field guide on the survey and monitoring of raptors. As with the first edition, the guide is written for people who watch, survey and monitor raptors and it provides detailed descriptions of survey methods for all species of raptor (Accipitriformes, Falconiformes and Strigiformes) which occur regularly in Britain and Ireland. At a time when many raptors in Britain and Ireland are recovering from low populations in the mid to late 20th Century, or earlier, there is a growing demand for high quality information on numbers, distribution and population trends of these birds. This book aims to promote best practice for survey and monitoring. It is hoped that it will provide a starting point for anyone wanting to begin a raptor study, and indeed that it will help inspire a new generation of raptor ecologists. The field guide has been written and edited by experienced professionals, members of the Scottish Raptor Monitoring Group, drawing on the knowledge and experience of over 300 raptors specialists. The 2nd edition of this field guide has been updated to take account of feedback received from raptor fieldworkers based on their experience of using the book, as well as reviewers. It also includes a new section featuring high quality, full colour photographs of raptor feathers for identification purposes. This section contains 55 pictures clearly showing the wing formula and diagnostic features for 22 species of raptor, including separate photographs for males and females of sexually dimorphic species. These photographs have been supplied by Marian Cieslak and Boleslaw Dul, the authors of the excellent field guide, "Feathers: Identification for Bird Conservation", from the Natura Publishing House. Combined with the species accounts, the detailed introduction to survey and monitoring techniques contained in part one, and a CD of key raptor calls, the photographs help to create a more comprehensive guide for those interested in the study of raptors."

Raptor Survey And Monitoring: A Field Guide For African Birds Of Prey

Gerard Malan

2009

"If you wish to conduct a raptor survey, either for birds nesting in trees, on cliffs or on the ground, but want to use recognised fieldwork techniques honed by southern African raptor ecologists over 160 years, this book is for you. It is unique in that it describes how to conduct aerial surveys for tree and cliff nesting raptors - a fast-expanding field. The aim of the book is therefore to bring together both practical and contemporary knowledge in one volume. In doing so, the book presents standardized and accepted methods on how to: (1) set up and conduct raptor surveys, and (2) collect comparable, reliable and useful inventory data to monitor raptor diversity for a range of applications."

Collins Birds of Prey

Benny Gensbol and Walther Thiede

2008

"The most complete guide to the 49 species of bird of prey (eagles, vultures, hawks, buzzards, osprey and falcons) found in Europe Every species has a comprehensive descriptive entry, with the most up-to-date information on population, distribution, status, behaviour, habitat, voice, breeding biology, food and hunting techniques. In addition, a separate section deals with the more detailed identification of the species - major ID characteristics, proportions, regional variations, young, juvenile and adult variation, ID of perched birds, ID of flying birds and a section on other similar species that can be easily confused. Illustrated with 55 maps, nearly 200 photographs and nearly 1,000 illustrations, this book is essential reading for anyone interested in the birds of prey of Europe."

The State of North America's Birds of Prey

Editor: Keith L. Bildstein, Jeff P. Smith, Ernesto Ruelas Inzuna, and Richard R. Veit

Nuttall Ornithological Club / American Ornithologists' Union

2008

"Written by 22 of the hemisphere's best-known raptor migration specialists, the book includes a brief history of raptor conservation in North America, the principles and methods for the use of migration counts to determine population trends, regional overviews of trends in migration counts, a report on the conservation status of 20 species of birds of prey, a description of the data management system, and recommendations for the operation of raptor migration monitoring sites. The book is scientifically rigorous and quite technical. Most serious students of raptor and bird populations will likely want this ground-breaking report, which may have limited appeal for the casual hawk watcher."

The Raptors of Europe & Middle East

Dick Forsman

Revised edition (paperback)

2007

"This book presents the most complete and up to date guide to the recognition of the diurnal raptors of Europe and the Middle East yet published. It is written by an acknowledged expert, the author of many definitive identification articles and veteran of countless tours and expeditions. Over 700 high quality colour photographs have been specially chosen to show the plumages of each age and sex class of every species found in Europe and the Middle East, back up by a detailed text enabling birdwatchers to get to grips with even the most difficult species. The photographs are complemented by almost 100 drawings focussing on particular identification details, and the whole is fully referenced with a list of nearly 300 key papers and articles. This book sets a new standard for raptor watching and identification in Europe and further afield."

Raptor Research and Management Techniques

Editor: David M. Bird and Keith L. Bildstein

2007

"This is the much anticipated and thoroughly updated version of the popular but long out of print "Raptor Management Techniques Manual". Produced by the Raptor Research Foundation, this is a comprehensive work designed for use by raptor researchers and conservationists and natural-resource managers around the world. Each chapter has been authored by experts in the field and has undergone rigorous review. Not an all-inclusive manual or detailed 'how-to' book, this new work reflects the state of the art in raptor research, with up-to-date information on various techniques, and numerous references to additional sources for details and cautions regarding various field and laboratory techniques and management tools. Beginning with a general review of the field of raptor research, it includes insights into field-study techniques, information on the energetics, physiology, pathology, and toxicology of raptors; it covers reduction of management and researcher disturbance, mitigation, population monitoring at migration watchsites, captive breeding, the augmentation of wild populations, and rehabilitation, and concludes with chapters on public education and legal considerations. This book will enhance standardisation in the field, speed improvement in techniques and help those who study and manage birds to better protect them."

Raptors of Eastern North America

Brian K. Wheeler

Princeton University Press

2007

"The Wheeler Guides will help birders and biologists navigate the pitfalls of raptor identification, including raptors' often extreme variation by age and sex as well as the existence of numerous "confusion" species. The plumage section discusses more plumage variations - and in greater consistency, depth, and clarity - than any previously published guide. The text - informed by years of study and consultation with local, state, provincial, and regional experts - covers all aspects of raptor biology in an easy-to-read and consistent format. It provides the most up-to-date information available on status and distribution, taking into account the recent alteration of some species' ranges due to pesticide bans and introduction programs."

Raptors of Western North America

Brian K. Wheeler

Princeton University Press

2007

"The Wheeler Guides will help birders and biologists navigate the pitfalls of raptor identification, including raptors' often extreme variation by age and sex as well as the existence of numerous "confusion" species. The plumage section discusses more plumage variations - and in greater consistency, depth, and clarity - than any previously published guide. The text - informed by years of study and consultation with local, state, provincial, and regional experts - covers all aspects of raptor biology in an easy-to-read and consistent format. It provides the most up-to-date information available on status and distribution, taking into account the recent alteration of some species' ranges due to pesticide bans and introduction programs."

Raptors: A Field Guide to Surveying and Monitoring

Jon Hardey, Humphrey Crick, Chris Wernham, Helen Riley, Brian Etheridge and Des Thompson

2006

"This publication, written by experienced professionals, is aimed at people who watch, survey or monitor raptors. It provides detailed descriptions of survey methods for all species of raptor (Accipitriformes, Falconiformes, and Strigiformes), which regularly occur in the United Kingdom. This publication, including a CD-ROM containing raptor calls, sets out to promote best practice for the survey and monitoring of raptors. It is hoped that it will provide a starting point for anyone wanting to begin a raptor study, and indeed to encourage a new generation of raptor ecologists. Written and edited by members of the Scottish Raptor Monitoring Group, this book draws on the knowledge and experience of over 300 raptor specialists. "Raptors: A Field Guide to Survey and Monitoring" has been funded by Scottish Natural Heritage, with assistance from the other Statutory Conservation Agencies in Britain and Ireland, as well as non-government bodies concerned with birds of prey."

The Pocket Guide to the Birds of Prey of Britain and Europe

Peter Hayman and Rob Hume

2006

"This definitive guide to the birds of prey in Europe is a detailed exploration of the habitat, feeding, and breeding of each of the nine raptor families in Europe, which include vultures, kites, harriers, hawks, buzzards, eagles, falcons, owls, and shrikes. Organized by bird of prey family, well-researched, up-to-date information is given for each species, including how to correctly identify the bird, while a combination of Peter Hayman's unique drawings and stunning photography of the birds in action celebrate the living bird. Also included is a full reference system of symbols, which reveal at a glance the habitat and distribution of each bird, and when each species can be seen."

Raptors of North America: Natural History and Conservation

Noel Snyder and Helen Snyder

2006

"Ornithologists Noel and Helen Snyder have spent nearly fifty years studying and photographing birds of prey in their natural habitat. The result of decades of firsthand field studies combined with key biological and conservation studies by other experts, "Raptors of North America" presents a comprehensive and captivating account of our continent's birds of prey."

Birds of Prey of the Indian Subcontinent

Rishad Naoroji

2006

"A complete guide to the raptors of the Indian subcontinent. Lavishly illustrated with 24 colour plates and around 600 photos, each species is shown in all usual plumage forms, in flight and at rest. The species accounts cover all aspects of field identification, and also include sections on distribution, behaviour, status and population. The Indian subcontinent comprises the countries of India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and the Maldives. This region encompasses a great diversity of habitat types and a full range of altitudinal variation, and has a correspondingly large avifauna. The diurnal birds of prey are well represented - 70 species of hawk, buzzard, kite, harrier, eagle, vulture, falcon and falconet are found in the region. Anyone birding in the Indian subcontinent will find this book an invaluable aid to identifying and understanding the region's diverse raptor avifauna."

Neotropical Raptors: Proceedings of the Second Neotropical Raptor Conference, Iguazu, Argentina, 2006

Editor: Keith L. Bildstein, David R. Barber, Andrea Zimmerman

2006

Migrating Raptors of the World: Their Ecology and Conservation

Keith L. Bildstein

2006

"Bildstein, whose knowledge of the phenomenon of raptor migration is comprehensive, provides an accessible account of the history, ecology, geography, science, and conservation aspects surrounding the migration of approximately two hundred species of raptors between their summer breeding sites and their wintering grounds. He summarizes current knowledge about how the birds' bodies handle the demands of long-distance migration and how they know where to go. Migrating Raptors of the World also includes the ecological and conservation stories of several of the world's most intriguing raptor migrants, including the Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Bald Eagle, Western Honey Buzzard, Northern Harrier, Grey-faced Buzzard, Steppe Buzzard, and Amur Falcon."

Birds of Prey

Usborne Spotter's Guide

"One of Usborne's most enduring and well-known series has been given an exciting new look. Each guide has been completely updated and has a striking new cover. It makes perfect companions for enthusiasts keen to discover the many fascinating aspects of the natural world with full-colour illustrations of around 100-200 different species per title that have been reproduced from the original artwork using the latest technology. It provides ideal field guides for both children and adults and incredible value for money."

Raptors of the World

James Ferguson-Lees and David Christie

Princeton Field Guides

Princeton University Press

2006

"This new field guide covers all of the world's kites, vultures, harriers, hawks, buzzards, eagles, and falcons. Based on essential sections of the widely acclaimed handbook Raptors of the World by the same authors, but with updated text, maps, and plates, it shows every species in a selection of different plumages, with concise facing texts and distribution maps. It provides an easy-to-use and portable reference to one of the world's largest, most popular, and most challenging avian groups."

Raptors in Your Pocket: A Guide to Great Plains Birds of Prey

Dana Gardner and Nancy Overcott

University of Iowa Press

2006

"This newest addition to Iowa's successful series of laminated guides is a welcome aid to identifying the many challenging raptors of the Great Plains, from northern Minnesota to northern Texas. Illustrator Dana Gardner has created fourteen panels, showing twenty-six species perched and in flight with complete plumage variations - dark phases, light phases, and juvenile and adult male and female forms. The text also includes: length and wingspan, common and scientific names, and status, such as common resident or winter visitor. Raptors are notoriously hard to identify, and Gardner has worked hard to make this guide useful for beginning birders, as well as those more experienced in the field."

Birds of Prey Rescue: Changing the Future for Endangered Wildlife

Pamela Hickman

2006

"Birds of prey, otherwise known as raptors, have been respected and admired yet also feared and loathed throughout their existence. They are meat-eating birds and extremely well-equipped for the hunt, with powerful eyesight, ultra-sensitive hearing, and sharp talons. Despite these apparent advantages, many birds of prey species are seriously endangered or threatened. This latest addition to the Firefly Animal Rescue series profiles the dedicated people and projects around the world helping raptors to survive. Illustrated with 50 spectacular color photographs, Birds of Prey Rescue also addresses the general biological issues and challenges in preserving a future for endangered wildlife."

Birds of Prey: Winged Hunters of the Sky

Paul D. Frost

2006

Raptors of the World (Concise edition)

James Ferguson-Lees and David Christie

Christopher Helm

2005

"Raptors of the World (Helm, 2001) is the definitive handbook to this most popular group of birds. This new field guide uses all of the plates from Raptors of the World, with a concise, revised text on facing pages, to create a conveniently-sized, lightweight field reference covering all 340 raptor species. Several of the plates have been reworked and repainted for this guide. The book also has an updated colour distribution map for each species. Much of the extensive introductory material has been retained in this guide, with the addition of a complete species list containing all subspecies and brief details of their ranges. Armed with this guide, birders will be able to identify with confidence any raptor encountered anywhere in the world."

Hawks from Every Angle: How to Identify Raptors in Flight

Jerry Liguori

Princeton University Press

2005

"Hawks from Every Angle takes hawk identification to new heights. It offers a fresh approach that literally looks at the birds from every angle, compares and contrasts deceptively similar species, and provides the pictures (and words) needed for identification in the field. Jerry Liguori pinpoints innovative, field-tested identification traits for each species from the various angles that they are seen. Featuring 339 striking color photos on 68 color plates and 32 black and white photos, Hawks from Every Angle is unique in presenting a host of meticulously crafted pictures for each of the 19 species it covers in detail - the species most common to migration sites throughout the United States and Canada. All aspects of raptor identification are discussed, including plumage, shape, and flight style traits."

Raptors and Owls of Georgia

R.A. Galvez, L. Gavashelishvili and Z. Javakhishvili

2005

A detailed field guide to the 45 species of raptors and owls recorded in Georgia including residents, migrants, and rare visitors. Information includes sections on identification, behaviour, confusing species, habitat, food source, nesting, and population status of each species within Georgia. The text is in Georian and English.

Raptors of California

Hans Peeters and Pam Peeters

University of California Press

2005

"Featuring descriptions of every diurnal California raptor, this state-of-the-art, beautifully illustrated guide is the first to combine identification of these important birds with a comprehensive discussion of their natural history. Raptors of California notes well-established field marks in addition to introducing several new pointers that help distinguish especially difficult species. More than a field guide, the book also includes information on raptor anatomy, foraging, reproduction, movement, where and how to observe raptors, human-raptor interactions, raptor conservation, endangered species, caring for injured hawks, falconry, and more. Of special interest is the inclusion of previously unpublished descriptions of raptor behavior and many fascinating anecdotes and vivid observations from the field that provide new insights into the lives of these captivating birds. * Covers 27 species, with range maps for the 18 species regularly occurring in California * 104 color figures include photographs and wash drawings illustrating habitats, anatomy, field marks, and behavior * 12 full-page color plates show the various plumages of each species--including rarities--as well as their appearance in flight."

The Raptor Almanac: A Comprehensive Guide to Eagles, Hawks, Falcons and Vultures

Scott Weidensaul

2004

"The Raptor Almanac is a comprehensive reference to the 310 species of diurnal (day-flying) birds of prey worldwide, including hawks, eagles, falcons, and vultures. For the birder or naturalist who wants to go beyond the fundamentals, and especially for anyone fascinated by birds of prey, The Raptor Almanac gathers virtually every important fact about these birds in an accessible and entertaining manner. This inspiring, all-inclusive book covers raptor evolution, taxonomy, behaviour, courtship and breeding, nesting, migration, human/bird interaction, environmental threats, and conservation efforts - from the well-known programs to reintroduce the California condor and peregrine falcon, to lesser-known efforts to preserve the snail kite and the ferruginous hawk."

Raptors Of China

English translation of Chinese publication

2004

Introductory chapters that cover classification and taxonomy, habits, migration, evolution, field identification, raptors and man, and conservation and research in China, followed by accounts of species recorded in China.

Raptors Worldwide: Proceedings of the 6th World Conference on Birds of Prey and Owls

Editors: R.D. Chancellor and B.U. Meyburg

Papers presented at the 6th World Conference on Birds of Prey & Owls held in May 2003 in Budapest, Hungary. Includes a special section on Vultures which comprises 12 papers on different Old and New World species and their conservation together with eight special studies providing a comprehensive picture of the recent catastrophic decline of species in the genus Gyps in Southern Asia, particularly India and Pakistan, the hitherto inexplicable cause of which was first revealed during this conference. Other special sections are devoted to Falcons and Eagles respectively, including accounts of the unrivalled conservation work carried out in Hungary on such endangered species as the Saker Falcon and Imperial Eagle, forming an object lesson for other countries. Other sections are devoted, among others, to such wide-ranging topics as Population Limitation, Taxonomy, Electrocutions, Raptor/Human Conflicts and Environmental Contaminants.

Spatial Analysis in Raptor Ecology and Conservation

Editor: R. Rodriguez-Estrella and L.A. Bohorquez Tapia

2004

"This book contains a series of GIS modeling state-of-the-art applications in raptor ecology and conservation. Ricardo Rodriguez-Estrella and Luis A. Bojorquez-Tapia compile selected papers from presentations at the Raptor Research Foundation meeting held in La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico in 1999, as well as articles from recognized authors in raptor ecology. This book provides a valuable synthesis of the most relevant methodological issues in spatial modeling, and thus useful for upper-level and graduate students, wildlife biologists, managers, and practitioners in the fields of biodiversity, conservation, and environmental planning."

Hawks and Owls of Great Lakes Region

Chris Earley

2004

A study of the owls and hawks found in the Great Lakes region of North America.

Birds of Prey in a Changing Environment: Based on the Proceedings of a SNH, BOU and JNCC Conference Dec 2002

Editors: D.B.A. Thompson, S.M. Redpath, A.H. Fielding, M. Marquiss, and C.A. Galbraith

2003

"Birds of prey are among the most fascinating and exciting of animals to observe and study. As predators they are at the heart of some of the most contentious conservation issues of the day. This book reflects this interest and presents substantial new data drawn from studies by professional and amateur ornithologists. Although this book focuses on birds of prey in the UK, it also includes work undertaken in Spain, France and Iceland. Taken as a whole, this is a remarkable collection of papers which will appeal to bird watchers, researchers, land managers, decision makers and the general public."

A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors

William S. Clark and Brian K. Wheeler

2003

"North America boasts a great and bewildering variety of eagles, vultures, true hawks, buteonine hawks and falcons. This book illustrates all 42 diurnal raptors found in North America at rest and in flight, in male, female, adult, juvenile and sub-adult plumages, with all usual colour morphs depicted. This array of photographs is backed up by a concise text which highlights key fieldmarks, covers potential confusion species and gives other relevant information such as measurements, range and flight style."

Eagles, Hawks and Falcons of Australia

David Hollands

2nd edition

2003

"Swift, sleek, predatory and breathtakingly beautiful in action, birds of prey have always had a fascination for man. In Eagles Hawks and Falcons of Australia, David Hollands has achieved his goal of finding studying and photographing all twenty-four diurnal birds of prey in Australia. This comprehensive and authoritative work is divided into three sections: the essays – written to capture the spirit of each bird as well as to present the ornithological facts; the field guide – designed to summarize the facts likely to be used in the field, including many new observations previously unpublished; the color plates – over one hundred and fifty superb photographs depicting each species in a dramatic and original format, taken both at the next and in flight. This magnificent book is essential reading for all raptor enthusiasts and for every serious ornithologist. For this second edition of Eagles Hawks and Falcons of Australia, David Hollands has revised the whole text and made additions to several chapters, based on recent field expeditions. The color sections have been expanded to make room for a number of new photographs."

A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors

William S. Clark and Brian K. Wheeler

2003

"North America boasts a great and bewildering variety of eagles, vultures, true hawks, buteonine hawks and falcons. This book illustrates all 42 diurnal raptors found in North America at rest and in flight, in male, female, adult, juvenile and sub-adult plumages, with all usual colour morphs depicted. This array of photographs is backed up by a concise text which highlights key fieldmarks, covers potential confusion species and gives other relevant information such as measurements, range and flight style."

Raptors of the Pacific Northwest

Thomas Bosakowski and Dwight G. Smith

2002

Raptors in the New Millennium: Proceedings of the World Conference on Birds of Prey and Owls

Editors: R Yosef, ML Miller and D Pepler

Papers presented at the joint meeting of the Raptor Research Foundation and the World Working Group on Birds of Prey & Owls held at Eilat, Israel, 2-8 April 2000.

Birds of Prey: Hunters of the Sky

Alan Richards

2002

Birds Of Prey: Health And Disease

Editor: John E. Cooper

3rd edition

2002

"Raptor biology has evolved enormously since the publication of the original edition of this book under the title Veterinary Aspects of Captive Birds of Prey. With the help of leading international experts, John E. Cooper has updated and expanded this classic reference to include all the latest data on the health and diseases of raptors. While still serving the needs of veterinary surgeons who treat birds of prey, Birds of Prey: Health & Disease also appeals to a wide readership of falconers, avian researchers, breeders, rehabilitators and zoo staff. Important changes to this new edition are the inclusion of data on free–living birds, additional material on fractures, pathology, legislation and poisons, and new sections on neonatology, health monitoring, captive–breeding and host–parasite relations. This book reviews all aspects of birds of prey, giving invaluable up–to–date information on diseases and pathology, but also looking at the history of the subject, the origins of terms, the evolution of current thinking and ending with a reliable list of primary references for further reading."

Raptors of the Rockies

Kate Davis

2002

Raptors of the World

James Ferguson-Lees and David Christie

Christopher Helm

2001 (revised 2005)

This covers the world's 313 raptor species. 112 colour plates show adult, juvenile and some immature plumages plus main geographical races. The accompanying text provides additional identification information such as length, wingspan, male-to-female proportion, shape and flight. Further species information includes distribution and movements, habitat, voice, food, socio-sexual behavoir, breeding and population information. The text includes line drawings illustrating specific points about identification and behaviour.

A concise edition of this book, Raptors Of The World: Field Guide, was published in 2005.

Hawks Of North America: Peterson Field Guides

William S. Clark and Brian K Wheeler

2001

This guide includes all 39 species of North American hawks and other diurnal raptors, including eagles, falcons, and vultures. Color paintings and photographs show each species in various color morphs and plumages, which are aso described in detail.

Birds of Prey of Australia: Field Guide to Australian Raptors

Stephen Debus

2001

Reprint of 1998 edition. 150 pages with colour and b/w illustrations.

The View from Hawk Mountain: The Story of the Worlds First Raptor Sanctuary

Michael Harwood

2001

"For years the rocky north-facing slope of Hawk Mountain in eastern Pennsylvania attracted scores of hunters who would shoot hawks, falcons, and eagles out of the sky. In 1934, Maurice Broun came to Hawk Mountain to establish the world's first sanctuary for birds of prey. Today, the mountain's famous lookout attracts thousands of birders, nature-lovers, and scientists to marvel at the river of raptors that annually comes streaming by. The story of how Hawk Mountain went from hunting hotspot to a thriving research centre with an important role in raptor conservation is told in vivid prose."

A Photographic Guide to Birds of Prey of Southern, Central and East Africa

David Allan

2nd edition

2000

"This compact, easy-to-use format is the ideal pocket-sized book for a travelling companion. It contains authoritative text describing key identification features and full-colour photographs depicting each of the 88 species."

Raptor Watch: A Global Directory of Raptor Migration Sites

Editors: Jorje I. Zalles and Keith L. Bildstein

BirdLife International

2000

At least 63 percent of the world's raptors migrate. "Raptor Watch", compiled from contributions by over 800 observers worldwide, is a guide to 388 hotspots where these birds can be seen in their thousands. A repository of information for the specialist, this book is also a strategy document enabling conservationists working at the local and national level to co-operate globally to protect raptor migration networks.

Report of the UK Raptor Working Group

Joint Nature Conservation Committee

"The UK Raptor Working Group was established to consider issues arising from perceived conflicts between the recovery of some bird of prey populations and their impact on game birds, moorland management and racing pigeons. This report summarises the submissions made to the Working Group by a wide range of individuals, organisations and leading authorities."

Raptors at Risk: Proceedings of the Fifth World Conference on Birds of Prey and Owls, Midrand, Johannesburg, South Africa, 4-11 August 1998

Editors: R. D. Chancellor and B. U. Meyburg

2000

Includes the paper Effects Of Predators On Their Prey: Some Generalisations by Ian Newton.

"This volume comprises the Proceedings of the 5th World Conference on Birds of Prey and Owls held by WWGBP in Midrand, South Africa, 4-11 August 1998, and attended by over 250 ornithologists from all continents. The volume contains 895 pages, with 90 original papers, many diagrams, maps, line drawings and photographs."

Raptor Migration in Israel and the Middle East: A Summary of 30 Years of Field Research

Hadoram Shirihai, Reuven Yosef, Dan Alon, Guy Kirwan and R. Spaar

2000

"Published for the Raptors 2000 Congress (held under the auspices of the Raptor Research Foundation and the World Working Group on Birds of Prey), this is an immensely useful compilation of information on the history of raptor research in Israel. Well organised and readable, with fine illustrations, this book is a worthy addition to raptor literature."

A Field Guide to the Raptors of Europe, the Middle East and North Africa

William S. Clark

Oxford University Press

1999

"In this comprehensive new identification guide, Bill Clark presents the latest information on tried and tested field marks for identifying the diurnal raptors, both perched and in flight. Many of these field marks are the result of his own extensive experience in identifying raptors, and have never before been published. Forty-eight stunning colour plates, especially painted for this volume by artist N. John Schmitt, depict all the plumages for every raptor found in the Western Palearctic region, both regularly occurring and vagrant. The plates are augmented by a forty-page colour photograph section. The accompanying text provides the essential clues to identification. These include detailed plumage descriptions for each age, sex, and colour morph, as well as sections describing flight, moult, behaviour, and distribution for every species. The text also contains useful sections on similar species - notoriously difficult to identify - and how to distinguish them. Each account concludes with the range of measurements for length, wing span, and weight."

First Field Guide to Birds of Prey of Southern Africa

David Allan

1999

"These natural history guides have been developed in the hope that young people and anyone with a budding interest in natural history will take up the challenge to learn the secrets of southern Africa's fascinating fauna and flora. They are a resource for the beginner, providing information at a glance through superb photographs, maps and easy-to-read text."

The Raptors of Europe & Middle East

Dick Forsman

1998 (Revised 2003 / 2007)

"This book presents the most complete and up-to-date guide for the recognition of the diurnal raptors of Europe and the Middle East. More than 700 high quality color photographs have been specifically chosen to demonstrate the plumage of each age and sex class of every species found in Europe and the Middle East. The photographs are complemented by almost 100 line drawings focusing on particular identification details, and are backed up by a detailed text enabling birdwatchers to recognize even the most difficult species. The latest information, much of it previously unpublished, describes the plumage and soft part coloration of each category of bird, and compares and contrasts with similar plumages of species which may cause confusion. The book discusses the difficulties caused by stage of moult, variation in light conditions, and changes in silhouette arising from different flight types. Fully referenced with a list of nearly 300 key papers and articles, this book is an essential reference to the field identification of every species, age, and sex class of raptors."

Ecology and Conservation of Raptors in Forests

Steve J. Petty

1998

"In this work, background information is provided on the status and ecology of raptors (birds of prey) in Britain and the legislation that gives them full protection. Based on this information, management techniques are proposed that should improve man-made conifer forests in the uplands for this group of birds, and the food webs upon which they are dependent."

Birds of Prey of Australia: Field Guide to Australian Raptors

Stephen Debus

1998

"This comprehensive, illustrated field guide to the birds of prey of Australia highlights the unique or special Australian species, and what can be done to help those at risk. This book is intended for professional and amateur ornithologists; naturalists; bush-walkers; conservationists; tourists."

Birds of Prey of Africa

Alan Kemp, SASOL, P. Harman, and Peter Hayman

1998

"Covering the raptors and owls of Africa and its islands, this reference provides both photographic, illustrative and textual references to all species. The photographs are drawn from the portfolios of wildlife photographers including Nigel Dennis, Peter Steyne, Warwick Tarboton and others. The text focuses on identification, and describes each bird at perch and in flight. Salient features of adult, juvenile and, where appropriate, subadult, are described, and current distribution, habitat and status are noted. Finally, comparisons are drawn with similar species. The illustrative content depicts all plumage relevant to identification (male, female and immature, as well as dark and pale forms), helping readers distinguish the often confusing and similar wing patterns. Colour maps accompany each species account, depicting common, less common, breeding and non-breeding distribution throughout the continent."

Holarctic Birds of Prey.: Proceedings of an International Conference

Editors: R. D. Chancellor, B. U. Meyburg and J.J. Ferrero

1998

"This volume comprises the proceedings of the International Conference on Holarctic Birds of Prey and Owls held by WWGBP in conjunction with the Spanish nature conservation organisation ADENEX in April 1995 at Badajoz, Extremadura, Spain and attended by over 400 ornithologists. The volume contains 680 pages, with 59 original papers."

The Raptors of Arizona

Editor: Richard L. Glinski

1998

"Thousands of birdwatchers come to Arizona each year seeking rare or intriguing species, and for those watching the skies the additional sighting of a bird of prey is a reward in itself. The Grand Canyon state boasts the most dramatic assortment of raptors in North America: hawks, eagles, falcons, kites, and owls, plus vultures and condors. Here can be found nearly all the raptor species of the continental United States and also established populations of species associated with Mexico, such as the Gray Hawk, Common Black-Hawk, Zone-tailed Hawk, and Whiskered Screech-Owl. Arizona's raptors are found in an unrivaled diversity of habitats, from saguaro cactus forests where tiny Elf Owls nest to the Vermilion Cliffs, where the gigantic California Condor was introduced in 1996. Yet many species live in habitats that are now jeopardized by degradation or development, making an understanding and appreciation of raptors crucial to their survival. The Raptors of Arizona brings together the knowledge and insights of 29 raptor and wildlife authorities who provide original information and syntheses on Arizona's 42 raptor species, with an emphasis on aspects of their natural history in Arizona. A chapter on each bird includes its description, a range map, and information on its distribution, habitat, life history, and status. Additional chapters cover conservation, habitats, where and when to watch raptors, and the sport of falconry. The book is enhanced by 42 full-color illustrations by Richard Sloan, one of the premier wildlife artists in North America, whose paintings were commissioned by the Arizona Wildlife Foundation specifically for this project."

Raptor In-Hand Identification Guide

William S. Clark and Reuven Yosef

1998

"In-hand guide written to aid ringers (banders) to properly identify, age, and sex diurnal raptors that are captured for marking. Each species account begins with a short description of the species giving the type and several diagnostic characters. This is followed by a section of similar species, each with characteristics to separate it from the species of this account. Also included is the conservation status for each of the species, based on Tucker & Heath (1994) and del Hoyo et al (1994)."

Predation in Vertebrate Communities: The Bialowieza Primeval Forest as a Case Study

B. Jedrzejewska and W. Jedrzejewski

1998

"This volume presents carnivores, raptors and their prey in the complicated net of interrelationships, and shows them against the background of their biotic and abiotic settings. It is based on long-term research conducted in the best preserved woodland of Europe's temperate zone. The role of predation, whether limiting or regulating prey (ungulate, rodent, shrew, bird, and amphibian) populations, is quantified and compared to parts played by other factors: climate, food resources for prey, and availability of other potential resources for predators."

Birds of Prey

J. MacKenzie

Key Porter Books

1997

"Shows and describes the appearance, range, and habits of different species within each of the seven main families of raptors and accipiters."

Australian Raptor Studies II

Editor: Gregory Czechura, Stephen Debus

Royal Australian Ornithologists Union

1997

"A compilation of papers from the Australasian Raptor Association's second annual conference at Currumbin Sanctuary, Queensland in April 1996.This volume features topics on various Owl species, Diurnal Raptors, and Education and Rehabilitation of raptors in Australia."

Raptors: North American Birds of Prey

Noel & Helen Snyder

1997

"This reprint makes available in paper binding a splendid introduction to the biology and conservation of 34 species, with clearly written, informative text and well-chosen photographs. Originally published in 1991 under the title, Birds of Prey; Natural History and Conservation of North American Raptors."

Raptors in Human Landscapes: Adaptations to Built and Cultivated Environments

Editors: David M Bird, Daniel E Varland and Juan J Negro

1996

"This collection of papers considers the ways in which raptors have adapted to man-made landscapes and structures. It covers the impact of human activity, conditions associated with urban, cultivated and industrial landscapes, and the provision of artificial nest sites and platforms. Cases are drawn from around the world, including North and South America, Europe, Africa and elsewhere; and a broad range of species groups are included, such as falcons, accipiters, eagles, and kites."

Raptors: The Birds of Prey

Scott Weidensaul

1996

An ornithological guide to 310 species of diurnal birds of prey worldwide, including hawks, eagles, falcons and vultures. Includes the latest advances in biology and ecology, with coverage of raptor evolution, taxonomy, behaviour, courtship and breeding, nesting, migration, human/bird interaction, environmental threats and conservation efforts.

A Photographic Guide to Birds of Prey of Southern, Central and East Africa

David Allan

1st edition

1996

"This guide is aimed directly at the field identification of the birds of prey of Southern, Central and East Africa. Where males differ from females, photographs have been included to show the different plumages, as well as those of juveniles. Colour illustrations depict the underwing and upperwing patterns of the birds in various plumages. Silhouettes help the reader locate the correct bird and for each species a map shows the bird's distribution."

A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors

William S. Clark and Brian K. Wheeler

1995

198 pages.

The Wind Masters: Lives of North American Birds of Prey

Pete Dunne

Houghton Mifflin

1995

"The director of New Jersey's Cape May Bird Observatory takes readers inside the minds of hawks, falcons, eagles, vultures, and North America's other birds of prey, exploring the behavior of each from a bird's eye's view."

Australian Birds of Prey

Penny Olsen

1995

"Authoritative natural history and biology of these raptors, with comprehensive identitification information and illustrations to each species. Ecology, reproduction, nutrition, behaviour, health and conservation issues are all included, along with the interaction of the birds with humans."

Which Bird of Prey is that? Field Guide To The Identification Of Australian Birds Of Prey

Gordon Beruldsen

"Of all the groupings of birds in the world few capture the awe and admiration inspired by the diurnal birds of prey, the raptors. Identification of raptors thus becomes an important segment of birdwatching. One of the major difficulties with raptor identification is that many of our birds of prey are frequently seen on the wing high in the sky and often at a great distance. This book provides a general easy to follow guide to distant identification of Australian eagles, hawks, harriers, kites, falcons and goshawks in normal weather conditions."

Books on Hawks and Owls: An Annotated Bibliography

Richard R. Olendorff, Dean Amadon, and Saul Frank

Proceedings Volume 6, Number 2

Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology

1995

89 pages.

Birds Of Prey

Nicholas Hammond

Hamlyn Behaviour Guides

Hamlyn

1994

"A guide that focuses on British and European raptors describing their often highly specialised behavioural features."

Raptor Conservation Today

Editors: R. D. Chancellor and B. U. Meyburg

"This volume comprises the proceedings of the IV World Conference on Birds of Prey and Owls held in Berlin, Germany, 10-17 May 1992. The conference was attended by over 500 participants from all over the world, including, for the first time, a large contingent from the countries of Eastern Europe and the former USSR."

Birds of Prey: A Portrait of the Animal World

Leonard Lee Rue III

1994 (2000)

Birds of Prey

F. Scholz

1993

"Lavishly illustrated with 500 colour photographs of sharp-shinned hawks, American kestrels, merlins, peregrine falcons, ospreys, golden eagles, ferruginous hawks, bald eagles, and nine other North American raptors. Birds of Prey features shots so close the birds loom as large as life. Scholz has combined instructive line drawings and engaging and informative text with Merrick's stunning photos to create the most magnificent and comprehensive books on birds of prey. The book includes a section on techniques for the artist and carver, with a 66-photo sequence detailing the steps involved in painting an American kestrel, and photos and tips on sculpting heads and making eyes to create life-like raptor carvings."

Birds of Prey and Ground Birds of Australia

Editor: Penny Olsen, Francis Crome, Jerry Olsen

The National Photographic index of Australian Wildlife

Angus & Robertson

1993

Australian Raptor Studies

Editor: Penny Olsen

1993

Papers originally presented at the Australasian Raptor Association conference on September 21st-22nd 1989."

Raptors: Birds of Prey

John Hendrickson

1992

"A portfolio of stunning color photographs is accompanied by a text which details these avian predators' (eagles, hawks, falcons, owls, and vultures) adaptations as well as their ability to survive in a world which continually threatens their existence."

Birds of Prey of the British Isles

B.P. Martin

1992

"This book explores the history and current status of Britain's 23 birds of prey, including owls as well as the diurnal species. It contains details of their diet, behaviour, field characteristics, habitats, breeding, migration and movements. The paintings cover all the species and their eggs."

The Pocket Guide to Birds of Prey of Britain and Northern Europe

Philip Burton

1992

"This new addition to the pocket guide series forms an introduction to the raptors of Europe, east to the Urals and south to the Mediterranean. From Sparrowhawk to Kestrel, and Gyrfalcon to Egyptian Vulture, each bird is illustrated, while two pages of data provide a summary of principal identification features, habitat, nesting, feeding and annual movements. Separate information panels show length, wingspan, weight and breeding biology. Distribution maps are also included."

Birds Of Prey Bulletin No.4

Editors: R. D. Chancellor and B. U. Meyburg

"A collection of twenty-eight new and original studies by 41 authors from 20 countries world-wide on birds of prey and owls covering a wide range of topics concerning the biology, ecology, status and conservation of these birds. Contributions include: Trends, Status and management of the White-tailed Sea Eagle, Distribution and Status of the Cinereous Vulture, Evaluation of some Breeding Parameters in a population of Eagle Owls, Status and Biology of the Bearded Vulture, Replacement of Mates in a Persecuted Population of Goshawks, Status and Distribution of Diurnal Raptors in Japan, the Migration of Birds of Prey and Storks in the Straits of Messina."

Classic Natural History Prints: Birds Of Prey

Joseph Wolf

S. Peter Dance

1991

"Wolf, well known to ornithologists and print collectors, was one of the most famous bird artists of the 19th-century. This is a collection of his prints of birds of prey, and includes the Snowy Owl, the Gyrfalcon and the Golden Eagle."

Raptors in Israel: Passage and Wintering Populations

Editor: David Yekutiel

1991

"This book from the International Birdwatching Center at Eilat contains six papers, covering the Eilat migration, Kefar Kassem migration survey, surveys in the Northern valleys, wintering raptors, a guide to where to watch raptors in Israel, and a full checklist of raptors of Israel."

A Review Of Raptor Population Monitoring

Crick, H.Q.P., Baillie, S.R. & Percival, S.M.

British Trust for Ornithology

1990

72 page report.

Hawks, Eagles and Falcons of North America

Paul A. Johnsgard

1990

Reprint 2002

"A comprehensive reference discusses all aspects of raptors, including their biology, habitat, and behavior, and offers identification information."

Birds Of Prey

Editor: Ian Newton, Penny Olsen

Merehurst Press / Silverwater / Facts On File / Murdoch Books

1990

Reprinted in 2000 by Weldon Owen

Reprinted in 2001 by Fog City Press

"Describes various kinds of eagles, hawks, condors, ospreys, falcons, and vultures, provides information on their characteristics, behavior, and range, and explains why many face extinction."

1990 edition


2000 edition

The Hawkwatcher: Adventures Among Birds of Prey in the Wild

D.A. Orton

Foreword: Wilson Stephens

Collins / Unwin Hyman

1989

"Having devoted much of his life to studying hawks in all parts of Britain, Dick Orton recounts some of his experiences, including stories about the ospreys of Speyside, golden eagles of Sutherland, buzzards in Devon, merlins in the Welsh Marches and the rare peregrine falcon. The author is a regular contributor to "The Field" and other ornithological journals. He has written several books including a monograph on merlins."

Birds of Prey

Philip Burton

Gallery Books

1989

"This is a complete illustrated guide to the worlds raptors. Written in clear concise language that will appeal to layman and expert ornithologist alike, the text describes the evolution of these impressive birds, explaining their remarkable range of adaptation and specialization, their feeding and mating habits, their annual migrations-and in some cases their tragic vulnerability in a world dominated by man."

Raptors in the Modern World

Editors: R. D. Chancellor and B. U. Meyburg

1989

Includes the paper The Control Of Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Nesting Densities by Ian Newton.

Proceedings of the 3rd  World Conference on Birds of Prey and Owls. The papers are presented in five main sections: raptors on migration and wintering; population biology; biology and conservation of rare diurnal raptors; owls; and raptors in polluted environments. These are followed by three shorter sections: habitat analysis and census techniques; promotion of legislation; education in raptor conservation.

Proceedings of the Northeast Raptor Management Symposium and Workshop

Editors: B.G. Pendleton, M.N. LeFranc, Jr., M.B. Moss, C.E. Ruibal, M.A. Knighton, and D.L. Krahe

1989

Includes the keynote address from the symposium Population Limitation In Raptors by Ian Newton.

The symposium was held on 16-18 May 1988 at Syracuse, New York.

Handbook of North American Birds, Volume 4, Diurnal Raptors (Part 1)

Editor: Ralph S. Palmer

Yale University Press

1988

Flight Strategies of Migrating Hawks

Paul Kerlinger

1989

"Hawks fly at very high altitudes, sometimes over water, and thus their flight behavior and migration patterns are extremely difficult to study. Now, based on nearly ten years of research, this book provides the most complete analysis to date of how hawks migrate. Paul Kerlinger has employed both direct observations and radar techniques to obtain a much more accurate understanding of the migratory behavior of hawks and the "decisions" they make in flight. And, he has integrated data on the flight behavior of raptors in general with information about their ecology, physiology, evolution, and nonmigratory behavior. Kerlinger begins with an overview, discussing ecology and geography, research methods, natural history, and evolution, and atmospheric structure. He then addresses specific aspects of flight behavior: aerodynamics, morphology, mechanics, direction, altitude, flocking, water crossing, speed selection, daily distance traveled, and flight strategies. Kerlinger describes each aspect of behavior quantitatively, testing mechanistic hypotheses. In conclusion, he examines how migrants integrate these behavioral components. Throughout the text he draws comparisons between the migratory flight behavior of hawks and that of other taxa. By means of such comparisons, researchers can gain insight into the selective pressures that shape the behavior of migrant species."

Handbook of North American Birds, Volume 5, Diurnal Raptors (Part 2)

Editor: Ralph S. Palmer

Yale University Press

1988

Hawks and Owls of the World: A Distributional and Taxonomic List

Dean amadon, John Bull

1988

Eric Hosking's Birds of Prey of the World

Eric and David Hosking with Jim Flegg

1987

176 pages with many colour photographs.

Hawks: Peterson Field Guides

William S. Clark and Brian K Wheeler

1987

Identifies all species of North American hawks, eagles, falcons, vultures, kites, and ospreys, describing their characteristics and markings.

Birds of Prey of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East

Benny Gensbol

1986

"This handbook covers 46 species of raptor recorded as breeding in Britain and Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. The introduction covers the general characteristics, hunting methods, migration, breeding and biology of these birds whose numbers have been drastically reduced through persecution by poisoning, shooting and egg stealing. The main text contains detailed facts on each species including distribution, population estimates and trends, migration, habitat, voice, breeding and foraging methods. The final section is designed to aid the identification of birds of prey in flight, and has details of plumage, variants, juveniles and the likelihood of confusion with other species."

Birds Of Prey Bulletin No.3

Editors: R. D. Chancellor and B. U. Meyburg

"Proceedings of the Western Hemisphere Meeting of the World Working Group on Birds of Prey, November 1985, Sacramento, California, USA."

Conservation Studies on Raptors

Editor: I. Newton and R.D. Chancellor

BirdLife International

1985

Proceedings of the ICBP World Conference on Birds of Prey, April 1982, Thessaloniki, Greece.

Comprises 6 main sections:

• Part I: Mediterranean Raptors
• Part II: Tropical Forest Raptors
• Part III: Migration Of Raptors
• Part IV: The Peregrine Falcon
• Part V: Management And Conservation Of Raptors
• Part VI: The Biology Of Vultures

Birds Of Prey Bulletin No.2

Editors: R. D. Chancellor and B. U. Meyburg

Hawk Watch: A Guide for Beginners

Debbie Keller, Pete Dunne, Rene Kochenberger

New Jersey Audubon Society

1984

An 80 page guide with black and white illustrations. Subsequently reprinted by Cape May Observatory.

Birds of Prey of Britain and Europe

Ian Wallace

Oxford University Press

1983

"Ian Wallace draws upon "Birds of the Western Palearctic" in this guide to European raptors. It is illustrated in colour with Ian Willis' paintings. The text covers individual species and families, their behaviour and other characteristics."

Birds of Prey of Greece

G. Handrinos and A. Demetropoulos

1983

"Greece still has a large variety of diurnal and nocturnal raptors. This diversity, which is the greatest in any European country, is one of the most beautiful elements of the Greek heritage. The book contains approximately 95 references to species, their habitat, appearance and biological characteristics. Includes numerous maps on migratory habits."

Birds Of Prey Bulletin No.1

Editors: R. D. Chancellor and B. U. Meyburg

Birds of Prey of Southern Africa: Their Identification & Life Histories

Peter Steyn

1982

Recent Advances In The Study Of Raptor Diseases

Editor: J.E. Cooper and A.G. Greenwood

1981

The Study Of Raptor Populations

Donald R. Johnson

1981

Hawks in Focus: A Study of Australia's Birds of Prey

Jack Cupper, Lindsay Cupper

1981

A study of the 24 Australian diurnal raptors with colour photographs and distribution maps.

The Birds of Prey of the British Islands

Illustrations: J.C. Harrison

Text: David Evans

1980

20 tipped-in colour plates by Harrison. Limited edition of 275 copies.

Population Ecology of Raptors

Ian Newton

Poyser

1979

"This work provides a synthesis of recently discovered facts concerning population regulation in raptors. The author details their social behaviour, their dispersion, numbers, movements, breeding, and mortality. He also deals with the effects of pesticides and other pollutants on raptors. Including all relevant material and information from around the world, this book provides a sound basis for further research and more effective conservation. Contents: Relationship Between the Sexes; Dispersion; Breeding Density; Winter Density; Problems Concerning Nest-Sites; Breeding Strategies; Breeding Rates; Behaviour in the Breeding Season; Fidelity to Breeding Areas; Movements; Mortality; Human Persecution; DDT and Other Organo-Chlorines; Other Pollutants and Pesticides; Conservation Management; Breeding from Captive Birds; Conclusions; Bibliography; Scientific Names of Raptors."

Birds of Prey in Suffolk 1973-1978

A.R.J. Paine

1978

Birds of Prey of Britain and Europe

Miroslav Bouchner

Collins

1977

Birds of Prey : Their Biology and Ecology

Leslie Brown

British Birds of Prey

L.H. Brown

New Naturalist 60

1976

"Leslie Brown's account of our 15 resident, 7 vagrant and 2 migrant species of eagles, falcons, hawks and vultures in Britain presents a great mass of scientific information about these birds in a manner as attractive to the general reader as to the dedicated ornithologist. Each of the resident species is discussed in detail - its status, past and present; its feeding and hunting behaviour; its life history; its breeding behaviour; migration and the threats to its survival. Then the biology of the birds of prey, changes in their habitat and status, their food habits, breeding behaviour, their territories and populations are examined in depth in separate chapters."

Birds Of Prey

Philip Brown

White Lion

1976

Raptors of California

Robert D. Mallette; Gordon I. Gould

1976

Birds of Prey In Europe

Maarten Bijleveld

1974

263 pages.

Flight Identification of European Raptors

R.F. Porter, Ian Willis, Steen Christiensen, Bent Pors Nielsen

1974 (3rd ed 2002)

A guide to the identification of the 38 species of European Raptors in flight. The birds are presented in 7 group of species with similar characteristics. The sections are: The Buzzards and Honey Buzzard; The Eagles and Osprey; The Harriers and Kites; The Vultures; The Large Falcons; The Small Falcons and Black-winged Kite; The Accipiters. There are 80 photographs and 78 line drawings of birds of prey in flight (including adult male and female and immature), as seen from above and below, which highlight specific identification detail.

Birds of Prey in the Field: A Guide to the British and European Species

Roger Harkness and Colin Murdoch

1971

"Designed for use in the field, this book gives much practical advice to the observer on the identification of British and European birds of prey. The authors have included a valuable series of pencil drawings which have been specially prepared to assist in identification, and the photographs have been chosen to show mainly birds in flight."

African Birds Of Prey

Leslie Brown

1971

A study of Africa's 89 diurnal raptors and 31 owls.

Birds Of Prey: A Ladybird Book

John Leigh-Pemberton

Wills & Hepworth

1970

"John Leigh-Pemberton's beautiful illustrations will help children - and adults - to identify any birds of prey thay might see. The clear, interesting and reliable text will stimulate many people to take an even greater interest in bird life."

Eagles, Hawks and Falcons of the World

Leslie Brown and Dean Amadon

1968

"A two volume, comprehensive survey of current knowledge of the diurnal birds of prey of the world. A single volume concise edition was also published."

Field Guide To The Hawks Of Australia

H.T. Condon

4th edition

1966

Birds Of Prey Of The World

Mary Louise Grossman and John Hamlet

Line Drawings by Jo McManus

Bonanza Books

1964

496 pages.

Birds Of Prey

Philip Brown

Andre Deutsch

1964

Hawks, Owls and Wildlife

John J. Craighead and Frank C. Craighead

1956

Reprint published by Dover Publications in 1969.

Bird Recognition 2: Birds Of Prey and Waterfowl

James Fisher

1951

182 pages with black and white illustrations, maps and charts.

The Hawks And Owls Of Ontario

L.L. Snyder

Handbook No. 2

Royal Ontario Museum of Zoology

1947

Preface:

"This handbook has been prepared as an introduction to the study of the hawks and owls of Ontario. Sections are devoted to some general consideration of the biology of these birds, including their place, role and interrelationships in nature, and to their systematic classification; a list is given of all species and subspecies that occur, or have occurred, in Ontario. Specific accounts present information relative to the distribution and numbers of each species in the province, and include such brief descriptions of plumages and behaviour as may be helpful in identifying these birds in life. Information relative to the food materials found in the examination of five hundred and eighty-two stomachs of hawks and owls taken in Ontario is presented graphically. Although this information is incomplete in certain respects it is indicative of food tendencies of most species during the period of their residence in the province. Pen-and-ink drawings of each species illustrate the text. These are the work of Mr. T. M. Shortt of the Museum's staff. Criticisms of the text and aid in food analyses, by various members of the staff, have in large measure assisted in the construction of this booklet.

Hawks Of North America

John Bichard May

National Association of Audubon Societies

1935

A Monograph Of The Birds Of Prey (Order Accipitres)

H. Kirke Swann

Colour plates: H. Grönvold others

Wheldon & Wesley

1930-1945

Originally published in 12 (?) parts. Subsequently collected in two volumes. In total comprises 1024 pages with 40 colour plates and 16 photogravure plates.

The Hawks And Owls Of The United States In Their Relation To Agriculture

A.K. Fisher

Division Of Ornithology And Mammology Bulletin No. 3

US Department of Agriculture

Government Printing Office

1893

From the prefatory letter:

The statements herein contained respecting the food of the various hawks and owls are based on the critical examination, by scientific experts, of the actual contents of about 2,700 stomachs of these birds, and consequently may be fairly regarded as a truthful showing of the normal food of each species. The result proves that a class of birds commonly looked upon as enemies to the farmer, and indiscriminately destroyed whenever occasion offers, really rank among his best friends, and with few exceptions should be preserved, and encouraged to take up their abode in the neighborhood of his home. Only six of the 73 species and subspecies of hawks and owls of the United States are injurious. Of these, three are so extremely rare they need hardly be considered, and another (the Fish Hawk) is only indirectly injurious, leaving but two (the Sharp-shinned and Cooper's Hawks) that really need be taken into account as enemies to agriculture. Omitting the six species that feed largely on poultry and game, 2,212 stomachs were examined, of which 56 per cent contained mice and other small mammals, 27 per cent insects, and only 3 per cent poultry or game birds. In view of these facts the folly of offering bounties for the destruction of hawks and owls, as has been done by several States, becomes apparent, and the importance of an accurate knowledge of the economic status of our common birds and mammals is overwhelmingly demonstrated.

Our Birds Of Prey; Or The Eagles, Hawks, And Owls Of Canada

Henry G. Vennor

1876

From the introduction:

"The Natural History of Canada has received a very fair share of attention from Naturalists both at home and abroad, but in no one department of this fascinating study can the ground yet be said to be well trodden. In commencing work in this field some thirteen years ago, I chose as a special object of investigation our Birds of Prey, as affording a field perhaps less trodden than others."

Outlines Of A Natural Arrangement Of The Falconidae

Robert Ridgway

Government Printing Office

1875

[Extracted From Bulletin Of The United States Geological And Geographical Survey Of The Territories, No. 4, Second Series]

Opening lines:

"Until very recently, the Birds of Prey have been classified entirely according to their external characters, the primary division being into three so-called families; as follows: (1) Vulturidae, or vultures, characterized by their naked heads, sluggish habits, and filthy food; (2) Falconidae, or falcons, hawks, eagles, and other diurnal birds of prey, distinguished by their feathered head and predatory nature; and (3) Strigidae, or owls, known from both the preceding by having the eyes directed forward, instead of laterally, and by being nocturnal."

Studies of the American Falconidć: Monograph of the Genus Micrastur

Robert Ridgway

Proceedings of The Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia

1875

Opening lines:

"No group of American hawks has presented more numerous difficulties in the way of elucidating and strongly characterizing its species; and so complex are the obstacles presented in this case, that the conclusions of authors, who have made the genus Micrastur a subject of special study, are very conflicting. The brevity and otherwise unsatisfactory nature of the original descriptions of the older species is the main difficulty, but the perplexing stages of plumage, which in this genus are very remarkable, and so far as we know entirely peculiar among the Falconidae, add still more to the confusion into which their synonymy has fallen. In the latter we have reference to the fact, perhaps not yet generally known, that two distinct phases of color, a gray and a rufescent, occur in some of the species at all stages of growth, which circumstance has but very recently been taken into consideration in defining the specific characters."

Catalogue Of The Accipitres or Diurnal Birds Of Prey In The Collection Of The British Museum

R. Bowdler Sharpe

Printed By Order Of The Trustees

Printed by Taylor & Francis

1874

Preface:

"This volume contains a complete account of all the species of Diurnal Birds of Prey known at present, 377 in number, of which only about twenty-five are desiderata in the Collection of the British Museum. In the year 1848, when the Catalogue of Accipitres prepared by the late Mr. George Robert Gray was published by order of the Trustees, 198 species were contained in the Museum. This Catalogue has been prepared by Mr. R. B. Sharpe, one of the Senior Assistants in the Department of Zoology."

The Birds Of Europe

Vol. I: Raptores

John Gould

Published by the author

1837

This is the first volume of the five volume Birds Of Europe which was originally published in 22 parts between 1832 and 1837.

From the preface:

"It has been frequently remarked that the productions of distant countries have received a much larger share of attention than those objects by which we are more immediately surrounded; and it is certainly true, that while numerous and costly illustrations have made us acquainted with the Ornithology of most other parts of the world, the Birds of Europe, in which we are, or ought to be, most interested, have not received that degree of attention which they naturally demand. The present work has been undertaken to supply this deficiency, and I cannot but feel highly gratified that a number of concurring circumstances have enabled me to carry my intentions into effect with comparative facility, and I hope to the entire satisfaction of the whole of the Subscribers; this I am induced to believe is the case from the patronage with which the work has been honoured since its commencement. .....

Perhaps I may be allowed to add, that not only by far the greater number of the Plates of this work, but all those of my Century of Birds, of the Monograph of the Trogons, and at least three fourths of the Monograph of the Toucans have been drawn and lithographed by Mrs. Gould, from sketches and designs by myself always taken from nature. The remainder of the drawings have been made by Mr. Lear, whose abilities as an artist are so generally acknowledged that any comments of my own are unnecessary.

Descriptions Of The Rapacious Birds Of Great Britain

William MacGillivray

MacLachan & Stewart, Edinburgh

1836

484 pages with a few woodcuts in the introductory section. There are no species illustrations.

From the preface:

It is not entirely consistent with the object of this Treatise, to offer a formal arrangement of the Predaceous Birds that are dispersed over the globe; nor is the knowledge of its author sufficient to enable him to perform such a task, in a manner satisfactory, either to himself or to others. The general observations which he presumes to lay before his readers will therefore be confined to those species, genera, and families, which occur in our own island. The Rapacious Birds of this country are all included in the genera Falco and Strix of Linnaeus, or the two great families of Falconine and Strigine Birds, the former comprehending Eagles and Hawks, the latter Owls. The Order of Rapacious Birds, however, embraces, besides these two families, another, that of the Vultures, which has no representative among the species that are found in Britain, and of which, so far as I know, only two individuals of a single species ha^ been seen at large in that country.