Manual of Ornithology: Avian Structure and Function

This book - a visual guide to the structure and anatomy of birds - is one of the most heavily illustrated ornithology references ever written. A concise atlas of anatomy it contains more than 200 specially prepared accurate and clear drawings that include material never illustrated before. The text is as informative as the drawings; written at a level appropriate to undergraduate students and to bird lovers in general it discusses why birds look and act the way they do. Designed to supplement a basic ornithology textbook Manual of Ornithology covers systematics and evolution topography feathers and flight the skeleton and musculature and the digestive circulatory respiratory excretory reproductive sensory and nervous systems of birds as well as field techniques for watching and studying birds. Each chapter concludes with a list of key references for the topic covered with a comprehensive bibliography at the end of the volume. The book will be a guide and reference for every level of bird study - a basic tool for investigation for anyone curious about the fascinating world of birds.