Guide to the Birds of Madagascar. 1990. 4 maps. 255 distrib.maps. 40 colour plates XII,364 p. gr8vo. Cloth.

This book is the first up-to-date and comprehensive guide to theunusual bird life of Madagascar. Forty watercolour illustrations provideclear and easy identification of all the Malagasy birds. Beginning withan overview of the natural habitats of Madagascar, the book thenprovides a general introduction to the avifauna. The endemic andendangered species are highlighted for each geographical region of thecountry. Seventeen prime bird observation sites are described in asection especially helpful to visitors to Madagascar. This sectionincludes information on site accessibility, permit requirements,accommodations, observation facilities and the species of birds foundthere. The detailed guide to individual species is the heart of thisbook. Full information on each bird species is clearly presented:descriptions of adults and immatures; song; habitat and dietaryrequirements; nesting habits; and distribution and status. The finalsection includes descriptions of birds not yet reported fromMadagascar but likely to occur there, as well as distribution maps ofthe bird species. This book is a vital resource for bird enthusiastsand serious naturalists everywhere.