From the renowned naturalist Stephen Moss comes the must-have gift for bird lovers this Christmas.

'Wherever there is a stretch of water for them to find food and make their nest, you will come across swans'

With beautiful illustrations throughout, this eye-opening biography reveals the hidden secrets of one of Britain's best-known birds.

The Mute Swan is not so much a bird, as a national treasure: the avian equivalent of Sir David Attenborough or the Queen. These huge and stately creatures are part of our urban and rural landscapes, a constant presence on lakes, rivers and ponds throughout Britain. Yet despite their familiarity, they are often misunderstood; and while many people love swans, others fear them.

Swans also feature in myths and legends, art and literature, dance and music, not just in Britain but all around the world. Stephen Moss delves into the facts and fiction about these charismatic birds, describes their seasonal life cycle and examines their central role in our history and culture. He also includes stories about 'wild swans' - Whooper and Bewicks - that visit us in winter; and the Black Swan of Australia.

'A superb naturalist and writer' Chris Packham

'Moss has carved out an enviable niche as a chronicler of the natural world' Daily Mail

About the Author
STEPHEN MOSS is a naturalist, author and broadcaster. In a distinguished career at the BBC Natural History Unit his credits included Springwatch, Birds Britannia and The Nature of Britain. He is the president of the Somerset Wildlife Trust and a senior lecturer in Creative Writing at Bath Spa University. Originally from London, he now lives with his wife and children on the Somerset Levels. His books include The Robin, The Wren, The Twelve Birds of Christmas, The Swallow, The Swan and The Owl.

Reviews
[A] beautifully illustrated guide * BBC Wildlife *
Charming * The Tablet *
This is a great read, and springs surprises about a bird you might think you know well -- John Miles and Matt Merritt * Bird Watching *



Book Information
ISBN 9781529110371
Author Stephen Moss
Format Hardback
Page Count 216
Imprint Square Peg
Publisher Vintage Publishing
Weight(grams) 487g
Dimensions(mm) 206mm * 140mm * 22mm