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Books > Science & Mathematics > Biology, life sciences > Zoology & animal sciences > Vertebrates > Birds (ornithology)
First published in 1983 to celebrate the centennial of the American
Ornithologists' Union, Perspectives in Ornithology collects
together a series of essays and commentaries by leading authorities
about especially active areas of research on the biology of birds.
Readers will find in this collection a useful overview of many
major concepts and controversies in ornithology.
This book describes the results of a long-term study of the
ecology, evolutionary genetics and sociobiology of a seabird, the
Arctic Skua. This species is polymorphic: the birds show one of
three, genetically different forms of plumage - pale, intermediate
and dark. The forms vary in frequency from predominantly pale in
the north to dark in the south. The study was undertaken with the
aim of explaining how natural and sexual selection act to maintain
all three forms of skua in its populations. The results show that
natural selection for pale is balanced by sexual selection for
intermediate and dark. Models derived from Darwin's theories of
female choice and sexual selection in monogamous birds fit the
breeding data of the Arctic Skua. Darwibn's views on sexual
selection are fully confirmed. The study produced original data on
breeding ecology, demography, population regulation, sexual
behaviour and territoriality. A chapter on feeding ecology is also
included in the book, which gives a complete and largely original
account of the population ecology and sociobiology of a single
species of bird.
The Wildfowl Trust (founded by Sir Peter Scott in 1946) has worked
actively to promote wildfowl conservation over many years and this
volume will surely be recognised as one of its finest achievements.
Here in one volume the Wildfowl Trust, supported by the Nature
Conservancy Council, presents a synthesis of detailed data
collected by a wide range of enthusiasts on the distribution of
wildfowl and their major habitats. The importance of sensitive
conservation planning is stressed as is the vulnerability of
wetlands to modern technology. The international dimension of
wildfowl conservation is also well covered, especially by the clear
maps of ringing recoveries and migration routes. This book
emphasises the need for international action in conserving wetlands
and stresses the benefits enjoyed by the fortunate countries
endowed with these habitats. By their very presence the spectacular
flocks of wildfowl provide one of the strongest arguments to
convince laymen, planners and politicians that our wetlands are not
wastelands but a very precious and vulnerable part of our heritage.
The aim of the authors in writing this monograph has been to
provide a comprehensive and critical, but personal account of salt
glands. Papers on salt glands are scattered through a great many
different journals. There is therefore a great need for a synthesis
of what is known about salt glands. The means by which salt glands
perform their vital function of forming and excreting a
concentrated salt solution is of great biological importance in
understanding salt and water relations in the cells of all living
things. In addition to the basic physiology of salt glands there is
consideration of their ecological importance, their interaction
with other systems of the body, their role in non-marine birds and
reptiles and their evolution. Salt glands have interested
biologists from a wide range of disciplines. This book brings
together the scattered literature and will be a convenient source
of reference to those working in the field, as well as providing
information for comparative studies and for teaching purposes.
In the last few years there has been an excltmg upsurge in seabird
research. There are several reasons for this. Man's increased ex
ploitation of natural resources has led to a greater awareness of
the potential conflicts with seabirds, and of the use of seabirds
to indicate the damage we might be doing to our environment. Many
seabird populations have increased dramatically in numbers and so
seem more likely to conflict with man, for example through
competition for food or transmission of diseases. Oil exploration
and production has resulted in major studies of seabird
distributions and ecology in relation to oil pollution. The
possibility that seabirds may provide information on fish stock
biology is now being critically investigated. Some seabird species
have suffered serious declines in numbers and require conservation
action to be taken to reduce the chances that they will become
extinct. This requires an understanding of the factors determining
their population size and dynamics."
Originally published in 1986, this book is concerned with the ways
in which seabirds function as predators in the marine environment;
in particular about how they find and catch food and how much of it
they consume. It reviews both the feeding ecology of seabirds
(including adaptations for flight and diving) and also most of the
leading field studies (in polar, temperate and tropical regions)
that have quantitatively examined the interactions of seabird
communities with their prey.
Winner of the Richard Jefferies Society and White Horse Book Shop
Literary Prize 'splendid' -Guardian 'visionary' -New Statesman
Britain has all the space it needs for an epic return of its
wildlife. Only six percent of our country is built upon. Contrary
to popular myth, large areas of our countryside are not
productively farmed but remain deserts of opportunity for both
wildlife and jobs. It is time to turn things around. Praised as
'visionary' by conservationists and landowners alike, Rebirding
sets out a compelling manifesto for restoring Britain's wildlife,
rewilding its species and restoring rural jobs - to the benefit of
all.
Graham Martin takes the reader deep into the world of birds from a
new perspective, with a 'through birds' eyes' approach to
ornithology that goes beyond the traditional habitat or ecological
point of view. There is a lot more to a bird's world than what it
receives through its eyes. This book shows how all of the senses
complement one another to provide each species with a unique suite
of information that guides their daily activities. The senses of
each bird have been fine-tuned by natural selection to meet the
challenges of its environment and optimise its behaviour: from
spotting a carcase on a hillside, to pecking at minute insects,
from catching fish in murky waters, to navigating around the globe.
The reader is also introduced to the challenges posed to birds by
the obstacles with which humans have cluttered their worlds, from
power lines to windowpanes. All of these challenges need explaining
from the birds' sensory perspectives so that effective mitigations
can be put in place. The book leads the reader through a wealth of
diverse information presented in accessible text, with over 100
colour illustrations and photographs. The result is a highly
readable and authoritative account, which will appeal to
birdwatchers and other naturalists, as well as researchers in avian
biology. The author has researched the senses of birds throughout a
50-year career in ornithology and sensory science. He has always
attempted to understand birds from the perspective of how sensory
information helps them to carry out different tasks in different
environments. He has published papers on more than 60 bird species,
from Albatrosses and Penguins, to Spoonbills and Kiwi. His first
fascination was with owls and night time, and owls have remained
special to him throughout his career. He has collaborated and
travelled widely and pondered diverse sensory challenges that birds
face in the conduct of different tasks in different habitats, from
mudflats and murky waters, to forests, deserts and caves. In recent
years he has focused on how understanding bird senses can help to
reduce the very high levels of bird deaths that are caused by human
artefacts; particularly, wind turbines, power lines, and gill nets.
Marvel at the lives of hummingbirds with this collection of
photographs and information by award-winning author and wildlife
photographer Stan Tekiela. Their beauty captivates us. Their aerial
acrobatics enchant us. Hummingbirds are beloved backyard visitors.
They are dainty and elusive. A hummingbird sighting is a remarkable
event, one worthy of remembering, cherishing, and sharing with
others. Award-winning author, naturalist, and wildlife photographer
Stan Tekiela believes that hummingbirds are fascinating and
adorable birds. He spent more than 10 years traveling across the
country to observe and photograph the hummingbird's various
species, from ruby-throated to rufous. He documented every aspect
of the hummingbird's life: major events such as migration and
courtship, as well as everyday activities including feeding and
sleeping. The result is a striking portrayal of these amazing
animals in Hummingbirds. Stan's extraordinary photographs depict
the backyard birds in a new, unique fashion. His fascinating text,
drawn from detailed research and personal observations, provides
information about every aspect of the hummingbirds' lives.
Presented with headings and short paragraphs, the coffee-table book
is pleasurable to browse and easy to read. "They are wondrous and
beautiful," says Stan. "Watching them in action is almost magical."
Unmatched by any other book on the market, Hummingbirds is a
must-have for bird watchers, gardeners, and nature lovers.
The science of genetics has undergone a period of very rapid and
significant development in recent years, and the area of poultry
genetics has been no exception. This book provides a balanced and
up-to-date account of all the major areas of this subject from
Mendelian to modern molecular genetics. The book begins by tracing
the evolution of the domestic fowl (Gallus domesticus) from its
avian ancestors. Subsequent chapters cover important aspects of
poultry genetics, including cytogenetics, transmission genetics,
gene mapping, sex linkage, lethal genes, genetics of feathering and
plumage, and quantitative genetics. In each chapter, a concise
explanation of the genetic principles is followed by a full
discussion illustrated by key examples. In the latter part of the
book, recent advances in gene cloning and sequencing are examined.
In the area of molecular genetics, where the most rapid
developments have been made, more extensive background information
is given and a glossary of terms is included. The impact of these
exciting new developments on our understanding of gene structure
and organization, immunogenetics, and the evolution of proteins is
assessed. Finally, the uses of transgenic techniques and their
implications are discussed. This book provides a clear and useful
survey of the genetics and evolution of the domestic fowl, which
will be of interest to postgraduate students and researchers in the
fields of genetics, agriculture, and veterinary medicine, as well
as to poultry breeders, both commercial and non-commercial.
The biology of birds is diverse and frequently differs
significantly from that of other vertebrates. Many birds migrate or
fly at high altitudes, while egg-laying and feather production
places high demands on nutrient uptake and storage. This book is
the only comprehensive and up-to-date survey of avian biochemistry
and molecular biology available. It emphasises the similarities and
differences between birds and other vertebrates, concentrating on
new developments. The first section deals with protein, lipid and
carbohydrate metabolism, its hormonal control and the adaptations
that occur in birds. The second covers the avian genome, gene
expression, and avian immunology. Growth and embryological
development are also discussed. Avian Biochemistry and Molecular
Biology will be of interest to all those working on birds,
especially postgraduate students and researchers.
The ultimate field guide to the birds of Ghana, an indispensable
companion for any traveller to the region This spectacular new
edition of Birds of Ghana is the ultimate reference to the birds of
this rich and varied corner of Africa. Now fully revised and
expanded, this guide is essential for researchers, birders and
conservationists alike. This authoritative book covers all 773
species recorded in Ghana and neighbouring Togo, including details
of all residents, migrants and known vagrants. Over 150 stunning
colour plates depict every species and also comprehensively cover
all the distinct plumages and subspecies likely to be encountered.
Concise species accounts describe key identification features,
status, range, habitat and voice with fully updated distribution
maps for each species.
Biological invaders represent one of the primary threats to the
maintenance of global biodiversity, human health, and the success
of human economic enterprises. The continuing globalization of our
society ensures that the need to understand the process of
biological invasion will only increase in the future. There is also
a growing recognition that the study of biological invaders
provides a unique insight into basic questions in ecology and
evolution.
The study of exotic birds has had a particularly long history and
has come to represent a fascinating intersection between the study
of biological invasions, avian conservation biology, and basic
principles of ecology and evolution. Avian Invasions summarizes and
synthesizes this unique historical record and unravels the insights
that the study of exotic birds brings to all three of these
research strands. It includes chapters on the well-known
contributions of exotic bird study to ecological science, and on
the post-establishment evolution of introduced bird populations.
The result is the most comprehensive picture yet of the invasion
process.
Avian Invasions is aimed at professional avian biologists and
ornithologists as well as graduate students of avian ecology,
evolution and conservation. It also appeals to a more general
audience of invasion ecologists.
When seen hunting over a meadow, barn owls have an ethereal grace
and beauty that can be matched by no other bird. The barn owl has
an almost global distribution and has lived in close proximity to
humans since settlement and farming created the forest clearings
needed for hunting and places in which to nest. However, in many
countries, barn owl numbers are falling rapidly. This book explores
the relationships between barn owls and their prey worldwide, and
demonstrates how an understanding of such relationships can help in
the conservation of the species. In this comprehensive account,
Iain Taylor describes the biology and ecology of this species,
including the factors affecting breeding success, and causes of
mortality affecting the final recruitment of new birds into the
population. He concludes by suggesting ways in which we can manage
and conserve this beautiful bird for the future.
Woodlands offer birds an extremely wide range of habitats. In this
book, the variation in bird life in woodlands, and the factors that
influence bird numbers and distributions are examined. What birds
are found in which habitats? What effect does forestry and woodland
management have? How can we enhance bird populations by habitat
management? Are bird numbers and distributions in natural and
managed forests different - and if so, why? The gamut of British
woodland is covered, from ancient coppice and wood-pasture in the
lowlands, to recently-planted conifer forests in the uplands, and
comparisons are drawn with mainland Europe and North America. The
book discusses the effects of factors such as increased deer
numbers, air-pollution and new wood creation on lowland farms, all
of which are changing the face of our woodlands today. This book is
a must for all those interested in woodlands, and the birds which
live in them.
Despite the scale of change in agricultural methods in the late eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, farmland birds were little affected, with many benefiting from the appearance of extensive new resources. This book is an historical account of the impact of changes in farming methods on the bird populations of British farmland over the past 250 years. A comparison with modern experience shows significant differences, with the more recent changes in grassland management, herbicide use and harvesting methods leading to a loss of diversity in farmland and, consequently, resulting in steep declines in bird numbers.
Vertebrate Life distills the necessary information from vertebrate
anatomy, physiology, ecology, and behavioral studies and then helps
students see important connections across levels of biological
scale. The result is students come to understand how organisms
function effectively in their environments and how lineages of
organisms change through evolutionary time. Processing complex
detailed information about expansive phylogenies and diverse
anatomies can be difficult for even the most motivated students,
and Vertebrate Life addresses this challenge by combining
appropriately-detailed, clearly-written text with outstanding
phylogenies and figures, making it a thorough and engaging
reference for students and instructors alike. The text's impressive
illustration program helps students visualize complex concepts,
allowing them to parse difficult anatomical information. The 11th
edition will have an upgraded illustration program with several new
and revised figures, including layered figures presented in the new
enhanced eBook.
In this definitive work, Ernest Glen Wever establishes the
evolutionary importance of the reptile ear as the origin of the
higher type of auditory apparatus shared by man and the mammals.
Tracing the development of the auditory receptor in the living
reptiles, he examines the use of a variety of mechanisms and
principles of action by that receptor. While some of the material
in this book has appeared previously in journal articles, most of
it is presented here for the first time. Basing this study on his
twenty years of research at Princeton's Auditory Research
Laboratories, Professor Wever treats in anatomical and functional
detail the auditory mechanism in about 250 species and subspecies
of reptiles. The anatomical treatment rests on dissections and
histological examinations of the ears in serial section, and
portrays the relevant features in drawings that represent
particular views of reconstructions. The author evaluates the
performance of thesse ears electrophysiologically, in terms of the
electrical potentials of the cochlea, paying particular attention
to problems of the transmission of vibrations inward to the cochlea
and the actions there in stimulating the sensory cells. Professor
Wever finds that the cochlea emerged independently from the
non-auditory labyrinth in three different vertebrate groups:
fishes, amphibians, and reptiles. It was among the reptiles,
however, that the vertebrate ear took on a more advanced
configuration from which it further evolved along separate lineages
in the birds and mammals. Ernest Glen Wever is Eugene Higgins
Professor of Psychology Emeritus at Princeton University.
Originally published in 1978. The Princeton Legacy Library uses the
latest print-on-demand technology to again make available
previously out-of-print books from the distinguished backlist of
Princeton University Press. These editions preserve the original
texts of these important books while presenting them in durable
paperback and hardcover editions. The goal of the Princeton Legacy
Library is to vastly increase access to the rich scholarly heritage
found in the thousands of books published by Princeton University
Press since its founding in 1905.
Many of us have experienced the interruption, pleasant or
otherwise, of a bird singing from high in the trees or a lone
chirper perched outside a bedroom window and wondered what the song
was about. Following a world expert on birdsong from the woods of
Martha's Vineyard to the tropical forests of Central America, Don
Staop brings to life the quest to unravel this ancient mystery: Why
do birds sing and what do their songs really mean? In this creative
mixture of reportage, storytelling, and research, Stap distills the
complexities of the study of birdsong and unveils a remarkable
discovery that sheds light on the mystery of mysteries: why young
birds in the suborder oscines--the "true" songbirds--must learn
their songs while closely related birds are born with their songs
genetically encoded. As the story unfolds, Stap contemplates our
enduring fascination with birdsong, from ancient pictographs and
early Greek soothsayers to the story of Mozart's pet starling. He
identifies birds by their specific sounds and calls, and explains
the true function of a bird's song, from mating calls to claims of
territory. In a modern, noisy world, it is increasingly difficult
to hear the sounds of nature around us. Exploring birdsong takes us
to that rare place--in danger of disappearing forever--where one
hears only the planet's oldest music.
This is the long, catalog/marketing description of the
product.Noisy gannet colonies, cliffs dotted with kittiwakes,
marine islands housing puffins, and shorelines that teem with
shorebirds during migration -- these are some of the spell-binding
characteristics of Atlantic Canada's avifauna, which is rich in
species as well as large aggregations of individuals. Within the 12
panels of Atlantic Canada Birds, you will find 140 of the most
common and familiar species beautifully illustrated. The ecoregion
map to over 20 birding hotspots is a useful inclusion on the back
panel. Laminated for durability, this pocket folding guide is a
handy, portable companion for educators, learners, naturalists, and
birders who not only want to learn how to identify species but wish
to forge a deeper relationship with them. Made in the USA.
This book explores the factors affecting the survival of small
populations. As the human impact on Earth expands, populations of
many wild species are being squeezed into smaller and smaller
habitats. As a consequence, they face an increasing threat of
extinction. National and international conservation groups rush to
add these populations, species and sub-species to their existing
endangered and threatened lists. In nations with strong
conservation laws, listing often triggers elaborate plans to rescue
declining populations and restore their habitats. The authors
review these theoretical ideas, the existing data, and explore the
question: how well do small and isolated populations actually
perform? Their case study group is the song sparrows of Mandarte
Island, British Columbia. This population is small enough and
isolated enough so that all individuals can be uniquely marked and
their survival and reproduction monitored over many generations.
This is one of the strongest long-term ecological studies of a
contained vertebrate population, now in its 31st year.
A fascinating and important work of ornithology, which led E.O.
Wilson to call it "one of the most interesting discoveries I've
seen in animal sociobiology in years," "Ravens In Winter" is a
scientist's impassioned study to understand the mysterious social
habits of one of nature's most formidable birds, the raven.
Why do ravens, generally understood to be solitary creatures, share
food between each other during winter? This was the question Bernd
Heinrich asked himself as he was observing another one of his prime
research subjects, the highly social bumblebee. And it was during
these trips to Maine, the site of much of his research, where he
first noticed this "unusual" behavior of ravens. From an
evolutionary perspective, the raven's willingness to share food
challenged conventional wisdom. There was no biological imperative,
it seemed, to their communal spirit. The more Heinrich observed
their habits, the more odd the bird's behavior became. What started
as mere curiosity turned into an impassioned research project, and
"Ravens In Winter," the first research of its kind, explores the
fascinating biological puzzle of the raven's rather unconventional
social habits.
Along with reproduction, balancing energy expenditure with the
limits of resource acquisition is essential for both a species and
a population to survive. But energy is a limited resource, as we
know well, so birds and mammals - the most energy-intensive fauna
on the planet - must reduce energy expenditures to maintain this
balance, some taking small steps, and others extreme measures. Here
Brian K. McNab draws on his over sixty years in the field to
provide a comprehensive account of the energetics of birds and
mammals, one fully integrated with their natural history. McNab
begins with an overview of thermal rates - much of our own energy
is spent maintaining our 98.6[degrees]F temperature - and explains
how the basal rate of metabolism drives energy use, especially in
extreme environments. He then explores those variables that
interact with the basal rate of metabolism, like body size and
scale and environment, highlighting their influence on behavior,
distribution, and even reproductive output. Successive chapters
take up energy and population dynamics and evolution. A critical
central theme that runs through the book is how the energetic needs
of birds and mammals come up against rapid environmental change and
how this is hastening the pace of extinction.
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