Swifts pose some of the most difficult identification field identification problems and it is the aim of this guide to provide information that will help resolve many of these problems. For the first time all 96 species of swifts and treeswifts are included in a single volume. Swifts are found throughout the world except in the polar regions; some, such as the Common Swift and the Chimney Swift, are common and widespread, but others are both elusive and scarce. The 24 colour plates have been designed so that, wherever possible, species that can be confused are shown together. All species and, wherever relevant, all distinct plumage differences have been illustrated in flight, from above and below. The main field characteristics are highlighted in the accompanying caption text to facilitate the separation of species whose ranges overlap. The comprehensive text has a strong emphasis on identification and distribution, but also includes information on habitat, voice, habits and breeding. The species' descriptions are very detailed, often describing features that are not easily visible in the field but which may contribute to the overall appearance of the bird. They are intended to be useful both in the field and in the hand. A range map accompanies each species account and many line drawings are included to illustrate specific features. Phil Chantler and Gerald Driessens have between them observed a large number of the world's swifts and they have drawn extensively on this experience in producing this work. This text includes much unpublished data and the painstakingly-researched plates are based on field sketches and photographs wherever possible. This important book, which is the standard reference on the subject, will stimulate interest in these fascinating and challenging birds.

In this beguiling work Posnett journeys to some of the most far-flung locales on the planet to bring seven wonders of the natural world--eiderdown, vicu-a fiber, sea silk, vegetable ivory, civet coffee, guano, and edible birds' nests--that promise ways of using nature without damaging it.out damaging it.

A completely revised and redesigned edition of the first comprehensive field guide to the birds of Borneo. Covering the whole of the island of Borneo, this fully revised and updated edition is indispensable for anyone interested in the avifauna of this diverse region. With authoritative text and packed with sumptuous colour plates, Birds of Borneo is the definitive guide to the island's birdlife. This new edition features an extensive introduction providing information on geography, climate and habitat. The accurate text covers the identification, voice and status of all species and distinctive subspecies of the island, which is accompanied by detailed distribution maps as well as 144 colour plates covering all major races and plumage variations.

The Ecology of Kalimantan is a comprehensive ecological survey of one of Indonesia's largest and most diverse islands. This book presents a complete summary of our current scientific knowledge about Borneo including the rainforest and riverine habitats that are endangered by logging and industrial development, along with a discussion of land use patterns and current problems. Kalimantan is the Indonesian portion of the huge island of Borneo. Kalimantan has played a key role in Indonesia’s economic development and is a major earner of foreign revenue due to the island's rich natural resources: forests, oil, gas, coal, and other minerals. In this book the authors argue that Kalimantan can be developed, but within tight ecological constraints and with great care. This book remains a standard reference for scientists, anthropologists, writers, and anyone interested in the region.