themes which have revealed much new information. Surprisingly, neither this 
shift in attitude towards ornithological initiatives, nor DHKD, is mentioned at all 
by Kasparek. 
The bird list must be based upon numerous checklists sent in to the author and 
upon a network of contacts. Having said that, I cannot avoid mentioning DHKD 
again. For conservation campaigning, they too need copies of the data and 
records from visiting birdwatchers. One can imagine their frustration about the 
unknown but probably substantial amount of information that never reaches 
them (see e.g. OSME Bull. 28:37-38). The moment has surely arrived for a closer 
liaison between the information networks of Max Kasparek and DHKD like the 
one between OSME and DHKD. 
The book also illustrates the problems of different observers using different 
recording techniques for bird numbers and having different objectives and 
expectations. Here are examples of where Kasparek's interpretation of records 
differs from the systematically gathered data of projects by DHKD and other 
organisations (et al). 
* Timing of migration. 
Kasparek: spring passage of Marsh Harrier peaks in late April and early May. 
DHKD et al.: in the GTksu Delta on the south coast substantial passage in 1992 
occurred in March, peaked around mid March and was over by the end of that 
month. Passage in April consisted of immature birds only. 
* Breeding population trend (indicated for White Stork only). 
Kasparek: breeding population crashed by about 60 per cent over the past 30 
years. 
DHKD et al: accurate counts from three coastal regions (n=c. 570 pairs), that are 
comparable with counts over the past 30 years, indicate no decline at all and, in 
one case, even an increase. 
* Numbers. 
When numbers or quantitative assessments are indicated by Kasparek, they 
generally differ markedly from systematically gathered density data from the 
projects of DHKD et al. 
Despite these shortcomings Die Vogel der Tiirkei does provide a fine foundation 
for filling in gaps and will also aid the work currently being undertaken by the 
DHKD and OSME. I am convinced this annotated bird list will be the best there 
is for years to come and therefore recommend it for all those concerned with the 
future of ornithology in Turkey. 
Vincent van den Berk 
42 
