Herons and their close relatives, the egrets and bitterns, comprise sixty species in total and are found all over the world except in polar regions, and are a strikingly beautiful part of the wetlands they inhabit. They are particularly abundant and popular in South West USA, especially Florida. Herons are a diverse group, easily recognised by their long legs, necks and bills. Many species are notable for their sociality as they feed, roost, and nest together in single or mixed species assemblages. The authors have extensive experience of research and observation of these birds and this book provides an up to date comprehensive review of the herons of the world. Covering their biology, distribution, description, systematics, breeding, feeding, and conservation, James Hancock and James Kushlan have distilled their lifetimes' research on the heron into one volume. This volume is complemented by beautiful colour paintings especially painted for the book, colour photographs, and distribution maps.

Herons and egrets are a striking and beautiful part of wetland habitats throughout the world. They are a diverse group, and easily recognised due to their conspicuous adaptations to their typical environment and aquatic food supply. Often bold in their behaviour, they stalk the water margins and reed beds in search of fish and amphibians, which they catch and consume with ease. The author has spent a lifetime in pursuit of herons and the secrets of their ecology. In this book, the only complete review of the world's herons currently in print, James Hancock distils his knowledge into a concise review of all 47 species and recognised subspecies. The text comprises a thumbnail sketch, including descriptions of the appearance, distribution, conservation status, feeding, and breeding ecology of each species. Over 150 wonderful colour photographs, most by the author, show all the recognisable forms of each species, illustrating the variety and beauty of these birds. As a valuable reference and a fine photo collection, this book will find a place on the shelves of bird lovers everywhere.