Seabirds: their biology and ecology

(London: Hamlyn, 1980) 0600382273. Presentation inscription signed 'Bryan' (presumably the author) to half-title. Squarish 8vo; original black boards, lettered in gilt on spine; price-clipped laminated pictorial dustwrapper; endpaper map; pp. 224, incl. index; generously illustrated with photographs in full colour and monochrome, line drawings, diagrams and maps. Extremities of dustwrapper spine panel very slightly rubbed. Very good condition. "Seabirds are a fascinating and diverse group ranging from the large Emperor and King Penguins of the antarctic to the delicate noddies and Fairy Terns of the tropics. They have for a long time captivated man but it is only comparatively recently that we have begun to understand their way of life. In his authoritative text Bryan Nelson aims to introduce both the interested birdwatcher and the serious student to the study of this group of birds. The approach of the book is comparative and shows the diverse ways in which seabirds have evolved to make full use of their ocean environment. Dr Nelson has made extensive use of detailed examples to illustrate his discussion, and his lively and informative style makes the book a marvellous and thorough account of these birds." .