Description
There is no group of birds more mysterious and fascinating than owls. The loudmouths of the raptor world, they peep, trill, toot, bark, growl, shriek, whistle, chittle, whoop, chuckle, boom, and buzz. Indeed, very few actually "hoot." They have become the stuff of lore and legend-from the Roman myth that an owl foot could reveal secrets to the First Nations belief that an owl feather could give a newborn better night vision. But the truth about owls is much more exciting. In this gorgeous book, celebrated natural history writer and wildlife photographer Wayne Lynch reveals the secrets of this elusive species with stunning photographs, personal anecdotes, and accessible science. The photos alone are masterpieces. Unlike most published owl photos, which are portraits of birds in captivity, the vast majority of these were taken in the wild-a product of the author-photographer's incredible knowledge and patience. Lynch complements the photos with a wealth of facts about anatomy, habitat, diet, and family life. For each of the nineteen species that inhabit Canada and the United States, he provides a range map and a brief discussion of its distribution, population size, and status. Lynch debunks myths about owls' "supernatural" powers of sight and hearing, discusses courtship rituals, and offers personal tips for finding owls in the wild. From the great horned to the tiny elf owl, this amazing volume captures the beauty and mystery of these charismatic birds of prey.
A complete and passionate labor of love. It is essential reading for those who are fascinated by owls-and those who aren't yet but are now at risk of becoming so. -- Bernd Heinrich, author of Mind of the Raven Lynch is among a select group of North America's very best natural history writers and photographers. In Owls of the United States and Canada he showcases both of these talents and reveals a wealth of knowledge about owl biology. Anyone interested in these fascinating birds will treasure this book for years to come. -- Brian E. Small, Birding Magazine
About the Author
Wayne Lynch began work as a full-time science writer and photographer in 1979. Today he is the author of numerous award-winning books and television documentaries and one of Canada's best-known and most widely published photographers. His books include Wild Birds across the Prairies; Mountain Bears; A Is for Arctic; and Penguins of the World. He lives in Calgary, Alberta.
Reviews
Beautiful, readable, and affordable. So if you plan to give it as a give, I suggest you buy a copy for yourself as well. -- Whit Gibbons Tuscaloosa News 2007 This is a gorgeous book from celebrated natural history writer and wildlife photographer Wayne Lynch. Library Journal 2007 This is, in short, far and away the best owl book this reviewer has seen designed especially for general audiences. The writing is clear, concise, scientifically accurate, and totally readable. Choice 2008 This is a must have book for anyone interested in owls. Birdingnet.com 2008 This beautifully illustrated book contains a wealth of fascinating information... Will be much appreciated by birders, naturalists, and anyone with an interest in owls. -- C. R. Southeastern Naturalist 2008 This work is a labor of love. The author has done an admirable job. Quarterly Review of Biology 2008 Thoughtfully organized... it is an outstanding reference for this remarkable family of birds. Wildlife Activist 2008 I have more than a dozen owl books... but probably none is so attractive and accessibly informative as this one. -- Paul A. Johnsgard Great Plains Research 2009 Overall this book is a pleasure to read whether you're a diehard owl enthusiast or a casual admirerer. You'll find yourself wanting to leave this book somewhere conspicuous, so you can show the images off to friends, family, and unwary passersby. -- Jim Cirigliano Bird Watcher's Digest 2009
Book Information
ISBN 9780801886874
Author Wayne Lynch
Format Hardback
Page Count 264
Imprint Johns Hopkins University Press
Publisher Johns Hopkins University Press
Weight(grams) 1497g
Dimensions(mm) 279mm * 229mm * 26mm
A complete and passionate labor of love. It is essential reading for those who are fascinated by owls-and those who aren't yet but are now at risk of becoming so. -- Bernd Heinrich, author of Mind of the Raven Lynch is among a select group of North America's very best natural history writers and photographers. In Owls of the United States and Canada he showcases both of these talents and reveals a wealth of knowledge about owl biology. Anyone interested in these fascinating birds will treasure this book for years to come. -- Brian E. Small, Birding Magazine
About the Author
Wayne Lynch began work as a full-time science writer and photographer in 1979. Today he is the author of numerous award-winning books and television documentaries and one of Canada's best-known and most widely published photographers. His books include Wild Birds across the Prairies; Mountain Bears; A Is for Arctic; and Penguins of the World. He lives in Calgary, Alberta.
Reviews
Beautiful, readable, and affordable. So if you plan to give it as a give, I suggest you buy a copy for yourself as well. -- Whit Gibbons Tuscaloosa News 2007 This is a gorgeous book from celebrated natural history writer and wildlife photographer Wayne Lynch. Library Journal 2007 This is, in short, far and away the best owl book this reviewer has seen designed especially for general audiences. The writing is clear, concise, scientifically accurate, and totally readable. Choice 2008 This is a must have book for anyone interested in owls. Birdingnet.com 2008 This beautifully illustrated book contains a wealth of fascinating information... Will be much appreciated by birders, naturalists, and anyone with an interest in owls. -- C. R. Southeastern Naturalist 2008 This work is a labor of love. The author has done an admirable job. Quarterly Review of Biology 2008 Thoughtfully organized... it is an outstanding reference for this remarkable family of birds. Wildlife Activist 2008 I have more than a dozen owl books... but probably none is so attractive and accessibly informative as this one. -- Paul A. Johnsgard Great Plains Research 2009 Overall this book is a pleasure to read whether you're a diehard owl enthusiast or a casual admirerer. You'll find yourself wanting to leave this book somewhere conspicuous, so you can show the images off to friends, family, and unwary passersby. -- Jim Cirigliano Bird Watcher's Digest 2009
Book Information
ISBN 9780801886874
Author Wayne Lynch
Format Hardback
Page Count 264
Imprint Johns Hopkins University Press
Publisher Johns Hopkins University Press
Weight(grams) 1497g
Dimensions(mm) 279mm * 229mm * 26mm
