The Birds of Oman by Gallagher, Michael; Woodcock, Martin W - 1980

London: Quartet Books, 1980. VERY HEAVY. 309pp, index, bibliography, appendices, maps, 120 full page col plates (tipped in), numbered signed print of Sooty Falcon loosely inserted. Tipped in foreword from the Sultan of Oman. Or full green Moroccan goatskin leather blocked in 24 carat gold. Edition limited to 500 copies of which this is #90 (signed print has matching number), signed by both author and artist on the limitation page. Included is the original prospectus issued by the publisher. Superbly produced and lavishly illustrated this was the first major work on Arabian birds for over 25 years, and the first comprehensive book on the birds of any Arabian country. 120 superb full page plates plus a full page frontispiece adorn the text which covers over 380 species in detail. Introductory chapters cover the country, its climate and physical geography, the birds, history of discovery, habitats, and more. A complete systematic list of families, and appendices which include a checklist of 372 species, and details of ringed birds recovered in Oman. A comprehensive bibliography and detailed scientific index. This magnificent volume retains its original publisher's shipping box.. Signed by Author & Illustrator. First Edition, Numbered & Signed. Hard Cover. Fine. Illus. by Woodcock, Martin W.. Elephant Folio.