252 Recently -published Ornithological J forks. 



comparatively simple, while those of the latter are much 

 affected by meteorological conditions. 



46. Dresser's ' Manual of Pakearctic Birds' 



[A Manual of Palsarctic Birds. By H. E. Dresser, F.L.S., F.Z.S., &c. 

 Part I. pp. 1-498. 8vo. London, 1902. Published by the Author at 

 3 Hanover Square, YV. Price \2s. Qd. net, thin paper copies 15s. net.] 



The first portion of Mr. Dresser's long-expected Manual 

 of the birds of the Palaearctic Region has now been issued, 

 and the second portion, completing the work, is promised 

 for June next. The second half will contain, besides the 

 remainder of the text, the Preface, Introduction, and Index, 

 together with a map of the Palsearctic area and a frontis- 

 piece taken from a drawing by Joseph Wolf. The present 

 part commences with the Passeres, and treats of 609 species 

 of that "predominant" group, after Avhich follow the Pi- 

 carians and Owls, making altogether 709 species. As there 

 are 498 pages in the volume, the space allotted to each 

 is rather more than two-thirds of a page, shewing that the 

 condensation of information required in a work of this 

 character has been well carried out. 



After the English and scientific names adopted for each 

 species, a selection of the principal references is given, the 

 vernacular names in different languages are shortly stated, 

 and a condensed description is added. Next the liflbitat 

 is concisely given, followed by general remarks, in the course 

 of which the breeding-habits, nest, and eggs, if known, are 

 always mentioned. 



Mr. Dresser is quite conservative in his nomenclature, 

 very few deviations being made from the names ordinarily 

 used by British naturalists. " Subspecies " are occasionally 

 allowed, but they are quite the exception. The print of 

 the book is good and clear, and the names of the genera 

 are used as "running titles, " which gives great facility for 

 reference. Altogether we are much pleased with the 

 " Palsearctic Manual," which will certainly be greatly ap- 

 preciated by all ornithologists and acquire an extensive 

 circulation. 



