The Natural History of Orkney New Naturalist No. 70<br />First edition.<br />From the library of Eric Hosking with his bookplate.

London: Collins, 1985. First edition, 1985. From the library of Eric Hosking with his bookplate. Hardback. 304 pages. Orkney is a very special place for naturalists. Closer to Oslo than to London, its geography and climate create quite environmental conditions - even though it is only six miles from the Scottish mainland. Fierce gales, long summer days and long winter nights mean that the wildlife has adapted in some intriguing ways. Starlings nest on the ground, local sheep eat seaweed and there are voles exclusive to Orkney. The rare and delicate Scottish Primrose thrives here and it is a stronghold for the Hen Harrier - along with vast colonies of seabirds and seals. In his tracing of the islands' evolution from its geological creation to the effects of oil technology; in the detailed yet fascinating exploration of the plants and animals (and where best to see them), Professor Berry's expertise and enthusiasm is backed by that of local specialists and Orkney's long tradition of natural history study. Appendices include definitive lists of all the species of flora and fauna on record and an exclusive bibliography. Jacket design by Clifford and Rosemary Ellis. Book in fine condition. Eric Hosking's bookplate to front pastedown. Dust jacket near fine and unclipped. Very slight colour fade to spine, mostly affecting the green band.