The Unfeathered Bird

Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

A richly illustrated look at bird anatomy

There is more to a bird than simply feathers. And just because birds evolved from a single flying ancestor doesn't mean they are structurally all the same. With over 385 stunning drawings depicting 200 species, The Unfeathered Bird is a richly illustrated book on bird anatomy that offers refreshingly original insights into what goes on beneath the feathered surface. Each exquisite drawing is made from an actual specimen and reproduced in sumptuous large format. The birds are shown in lifelike positions and engaged in behavior typical of the species: an underwater view of the skeleton of a swimming loon, the musculature of a porpoising penguin, and an unfeathered sparrowhawk plucking its prey. Jargon-free and easily accessible to any reader, the lively text relates birds' anatomy to their lifestyle and evolution, examining such questions as why penguins are bigger than auks, whether harrier hawks really have double-jointed legs, and the difference between wing claws and wing spurs. A landmark in popular bird books, The Unfeathered Bird is a must for anyone who appreciates birds or bird art.

A unique book that bridges art, science, and history Over 385 beautiful drawings, artistically arranged in a sumptuous large-format book Accessible, jargon-free text--the only book on bird anatomy aimed at the general reader Drawings and text all based on actual bird specimens Includes most anatomically distinct bird groups Many species never illustrated before

Table of contents provided by Syndetics

• Acknowledgments (p. viii)
• A Note about Names (p. x)
• Introduction (p. xii)
• Part 1 Generic
• The Trunk (p. 2)
• The Head and Neck (p. 8)
• The Hind Limbs (p. 14)
• The Wings and Tail (p. 19)
• Part 2 Specific
• I Accipitres (p. 30)
• Vultures (p. 32)
• Birds of Prey (p. 35)
• Owls (p. 44)
• II Picae (p. 52)
• Parrots (p. 54)
• Turacos and Others (p. 58)
• Kingfishers (p. 62)
• Hornbills and Allies (p. 65)
• Toucans and Barbets (p. 70)
• Woodpeckers (p. 74)
• Hummingbirds (p. 80)
• III Anseres (p. 84)
• Waterfowl / Domestic Waterfowl (p. 86)
• Penguins (p. 104)
• Loons (p. 114)
• Grebes (p. 119)
• Albatrosses, Petrels, and Storm Petrels (p. 124)
• Tropicbirds and Frigatebirds (p. 132)
• Pelicans (p. 136)
• Gannets (p. 139)
• Cormorants and Darters (p. 144)
• Gulls, Terns, Skimmers, and Skuas (p. 150)
• Auks (p. 154)
• IV Grallae (p. 162)
• Flamingos (p. 164)
• Herons (p. 167)
• Shoebill (p. 173)
• Storks, Ibises, and Spoonbills (p. 174)
• Cranes (p. 181)
• Rails (p. 185)
• Kagu (p. 190)
• Waders (p. 192)
• V Gallinae (p. 202)
• Gamebirds / Domestic Fowl (p. 205)
• Screamers (p. 220)
• Hoatzin (p. 223)
• Ostrich, Kiwis, and Other Ratites (p. 226)
• Tinamous (p. 237)
• Bustards (p. 239)
• Sandgrouse (p. 242)
• Dodo and Solitaire (p. 244)
• VI Passeres (p. 248)
• Pigeons / Domestic Pigeons (p. 250)
• Nightjars (p. 258)
• Swifts (p. 263)
• Passerines (p. 266)
• Index (p. 284)

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

This work is billed as one that "bridges art, science, and history," and this reviewer was unprepared for what he would discover between its covers. This is a bird anatomy book--without labels. Little history is presented, but the science is pervasive, clearly stated, and certainly accessible to anyone interested in birds. The title page presents a stormy oceanic scene with a single soaring albatross; however, the bird is represented only by a skeleton. The first page of the text has a cassowary skeleton walking directly at the reader. The theme is set. Most figures are of flying and standing skeletons, numerous skulls, legs, and feet. Some featherless or skinless carcasses are included. Many figures resemble artist sketches, rather than finished drawings. The effect is terrific. The two-part text begins with a general consideration of major anatomical features. The second part discusses comparative anatomy of all birds presented, one taxonomic unit at a time, including worldwide species and extinct species, and gives insights into specific specializations and how these relate to behavior. Van Grouw (formerly, curator of birds, Natural History Museum, London) is uniquely qualified to write and illustrate such a book; she really hits a home run with this one. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through professionals; general audiences. P. K. Lago University of Mississippi