Firefly Encyclopedia of Birds - by Christopher Perrins (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

"Truly authoritative, but very readable, review of the more than 9,800 bird species on our planet... This well-done reference should be useful for the academic library but also for general public with its easy-to-read text. Indeed, many serious birders may well want to have this hefty volume on their home shelves."
--American Reference Books Annual

The ultimate reference to the vast world of birds.

Like no other group in the animal kingdom, birds capture our imagination. Comprehensive and up-to-date, the Firefly Encyclopedia of Birds is the definitive single-volume guide to these infinitely fascinating creatures.

Entries written by a team of renowned biologists and conservationists give a systematic account of every bird family, covering form and function, distribution, diet, social behavior and breeding biology. With one-eighth of all bird species now under threat, special attention is given to environmental and conservation issues. The Encyclopedia's core articles are complemented by special features that provide detailed coverage of particular topics. Photo stories showcase superb examples of wildlife photography.

The clear, easy-to-read text of the Encyclopedia is enhanced by about 1,000 photographs revealing the enormous diversity of birds in their natural habitats, from Arctic tundra to tropical rain forest. In addition, a wealth of beautifully detailed color and line illustrations depict representative species from each family and highlight characteristic behaviors. Throughout, "Factfiles" with distribution maps and scale drawings place essential data at the reader's fingertips.

Offering a unique combination of scholarship, accessible language, spectacular photography and detailed illustrations, the Firefly Encyclopedia of Birds is a key reference. This authoritative and fascinating resource will appeal both to the amateur observer of bird life and to the student of ornithology.

Review Quotes

[Review of previous edition: ] A good overview of the birds of the world... outstanding large-format color photographs and illustrations should appeal to both students and the general reader.-- "Booklist / RBB" (12/1/2003 12:00:00 AM)

[Review of previous edition: ] A huge amount of information about our feathered friends.--William R. Wineke "Wisconsin State Journal" (11/9/2003 12:00:00 AM)

[Review of previous edition: ] An excellent job organizing... Sumptuously illustrated with 2,000 splendid color photographs, paintings and location maps.-- "American Scientist" (1/15/2004 12:00:00 AM)

[Review of previous edition: ] Beautifully illustrated... lavish illustrations and detailed articles provide a lot of information.--Suzanne Hively "Cleveland Plain Dealer" (11/26/2003 12:00:00 AM)

[Review of previous edition: ] Fabulous... 600 plus pages, 2,000 photos and, most important, descriptions of 9,850 species.--Jay Ingram "Toronto Star" (9/7/2003 12:00:00 AM)

[Review of previous edition: ] For birdwatchers and anyone else ornithologically inclined, this is it.-- "Macleans" (12/8/2003 12:00:00 AM)

[Review of previous edition: ] Intriguing, lavishly illustrated, and easy-to-read book... a great educational tool for most age levels, and a definitive resource for all birders and naturalists.-- "Bird Times" (2/15/2004 12:00:00 AM)

[Review of previous edition: ] Readers of all ages will be drawn to the lavish illustrations... exquisite, often large, photographs... a useful and informative reference.--Timothy C. Williams "Science Books and Films" (4/15/2004 12:00:00 AM)

[Review of previous edition: ] Superior to other recent titles... authoritative, signed contributions from 151 leading ornithologists... lively, engaging photographs. This excellent reference title is highly recommended.--Henry T. Armistead "Library Journal" (10/1/2003 12:00:00 AM)

[Review of previous edition: ] There are years of pleasure and a lifetime of education in this book.--Jim Williams "Minneapolis Star Tribune" (12/24/2003 12:00:00 AM)

[Review of previous edition: ] This massive volume is global in scope... one of the most visually stimulating and informative books ever compiled on avian life.-- "Science News" (10/25/2003 12:00:00 AM)

About the Author

Christopher Perrins is a distinguished ornithologist and the author of many academic studies and popular books on birds. He was Professor of Ornithology at Oxford University from 1992 to 2002 and Director of the Edward Grey Institute of Field Ornithology from 1974 to 2002, and has been a visiting lecturer at universities in Canada and Australia.