Shrikes of Southern Africa

Traditionally the term ‘shrike’ has been confined to the typical or true shrikes, the helmet-shrikes and the bush-shrikes – a well-known group of small to medium-sized birds with strong, hooked and toothed, raptor-like bills. This book adopts a wider definition – based on an analysis of behavior (especially communication behavior) and other characteristics – and includes the batises and wattle-eyes within the group. Tony Harris’s text presents many new and exciting ideas on the biology of shrikes and includes much unpublished material from his own field experience. His detailed introduction provides a general comparative analysis of the various characteristics that define the group. This is followed by the 32 species accounts, which contain exhaustive informative on identification, habitat, status, behavior and breeding biology. A summary of data for quick reference and two distribution maps conclude each account. The book ends with a glossary of scientific terms, a comprehensive bibliography, and a detailed index. The text is accompanied by 34 magnificent full-page color plates by Graeme Arnott, depicting adult birds in typical examples of their preferred habitat. Supporting these paintings are 25 full-color sketches (illustrating characteristic postures as well as juveniles and nests), four anatomical sketches in color, and a number of pencil drawings. The combination of Tony Harris’s authoritative text and Graeme Arnott’s sensitively executed illustrations will ensure that this book is widely acclaimed and appreciated – not only by professional and amateur ornithologists, but also by connoisseurs of Africana, discerning judges of contemporary wildlife art, and collectors of fine illustrated books.