Explore the wonders of the avian world with this comprehensive & fully illustrated guide to every aspect of bird life Highly respected ornithologist & wildlife expert Jonathan Elphick begins by defining the distinguishing features of birds before going on to describe their evolution since the age of the dinosaurs With the aid of fact boxes & clear photographs he then explores in greater detail each of the significant elements of bird life bird biology including anatomy walking & swimming plumage calls & songs; flight techniques & styles; food & feeding; bird lifestyles & social relationships; breeding growth & development; bird geography & habitats; & the mysteries of migration He also considers human attitudes towards birds through the ages With special photography from award-winning wildlife photographer David Tipling & many other top bird photographers this book is a unique insight into the world of birds & essential reading for all ornithologists bird watchers & natural history enthusiasts