The Mating Lives of Birds
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The Mating Lives of Birds by James Parry
A lavishly illustrated account of bird courtship and its spectacular displays of plumage and song.Birdsong may seem to us to be the purest expression of joy, but in fact when a male bird bursts into melodious song, he is warning off other males and advertising his availability to females. He may also engage in spectacular displays of plumage, dance-like movements, or even acrobatics (tree-based or aerial)--all as part of courtship. The female, meanwhile, assesses his vocalization, plumage, and territory before accepting him as a mate. The Mating Lives of Birds offers an engaging and lavishly illustrated account of this most captivating phenomenon in the natural world: bird courtship and display. It explains how birds' reproduction strategies have evolved, and describes bird monogamy, polygamy, polyandry, promiscuity, and communal living arrangements. It shows us dancing cranes, somersaulting hummingbirds, drumming ducks, and the outrageously extravagant plumage of birds of paradise. It describes group territorial displays, jousting males, and phalarope role reversal (with the female sporting brighter plumage)--not to mention elaborate nest decoration and the presentation of food offerings.The book's fascinating account of the mating behavior of bird species from around the world is illustrated by 140 vividly detailed color images. Birdwatchers will find The Mating Lives of Birds to be an essential addition to their libraries.
James Parry is a writer on history, art and the environment. He writes extensively for a wide range of international publications, as well as appearing regularly on radio and television. Elizabeth, Lady Ashcombe has been the chatelaine of Sudeley Castle for over 50 years. She has overseen the survival and successful development of Sudeley as a major heritage destination.
| SKU | Unavailable |
| ISBN 13 | 9780262018319 |
| ISBN 10 | 0262018314 |
| Title | The Mating Lives of Birds |
| Author | James Parry |
| Condition | Unavailable |
| Publisher | MIT Press Ltd |
| Year published | 2012-08-03 |
| Number of pages | 160 |
| Cover note | Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary. |
| Note | Unavailable |