Philip's birds of the world - Dr Andrew Gosler

The most comprehensive, single-volume photographic reference work of birds ever produced - features top-quality colour images and expert descriptions of 1,300 individual species, plus a complete listing of all known species in the world today.The book begins by tracing the evolution of birds and takes an in-depth look at their incredibly varied adaptations. After explaining the principles of bird classification and identification, and how the latest DNA findings have helped us to re-evaluate bird relationships, the major families of birds are described, including main characteristics, principal species, total number of species, any noteworthy features, and conservation status; in addition each family is illustrated by a representative species.In the main part of the book, the species photographs and descriptive entries are arranged by zoogeographical region: Nearctic, Neotropical, Palaearctic, Afrotropical, Oriental and Australasian. (Broadly speaking this translates as North America, Central and South America, Europe and Mediterranean, Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and Australiasia). Each region is introduced with a concise account of the birds of the region and maps identifying significant bird-watching locations. Then each species entry covers the key elements of description, behaviour, habitat and distribution, and notes key conservation concerns.Philip's Photographic Guide to Birds of the World is an essential reference for all bird enthusiasts, whether active and committed bird watchers or bird-lovers who want to learn more about these fascinating creatures. With many birdwatchers travelling widely on vacation, this work will be a valuable addition to a reference collection.Dr Andrew Gosler, the general editor, is University Research Lecturer in Ornithology, University of Oxford; President of the Oxford Ornithological Society; and a member of the International Ornithological Committee.Main map scale: