Bird song
Subtitle: biological themes and variations
By: C.K. Catchpole, P.J.B. Slater ; [pen-and-ink illustrations [by] Nigel Mann].
Contributors: Slater, P. J. B. 1942-
Edition: 2nd ed.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 2008
Place of publication: Cambridge [England]; New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 335
ISBN-13: 9780521872423
Subjects: Birds -- Vocalization; Birdsongs; Birds -- Behavior
Description: "Bird song is one of the most remarkable and impressive sounds in the natural world, and has inspired not only students of natural history, but also great writers, poets and composers. Extensively updated from the first edition, the main thrust of this book is to suggest that the two main functions of song are attracting a mate and defending territory. It shows how this evolutionary pressure has led to the amazing variety and complexity we see in the songs of different species throughout the world. Writing primarily for students and researchers in animal behaviour, the authors review over 1000 scientific papers and reveal how scientists are beginning to unravel and understand how and why birds communicate with the elaborate vocalisations we call song. Highly illustrated throughout and written in straightforward language, Bird Song also holds appeal for amateur ornithologists with some knowledge of biology."--Jacket.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 281-328) and index.