176



Review



The numerous coloured plates are by the Museum’s bird artist,

Allan Brooks, the text-figures with few exceptions are from the pen

of the author, P. A. Taverner.


A lengthy and very clearly written “ introduction ” is followed

by an illustrated “ key ” to enable students to determine the species

of any bird they may come across. Following on this we have the

description of all species found in Canada with small illustrations in

the text, the name in French as well as in English, distinctions, field

works, nesting, and distribution, the economic status, food and habits,

and whether in need of and deserving protection. The index is in

English and French, and another to check list numbers, in short no

pains have been spared to make the book useful and attractive to

the student as well as the man who without specializing likes to know

something of the birds he comes across in his daily life.


The only objection to the book is its size and weight, which render

it a formidable addition to one’s luggage if travelling, and altogether

impossible to carry about on bird-watching expeditions. Perhaps

when another edition is called for it would be possible to split the book

into two or even three parts for convenience’ sake. As it stands it is

a volume to adorn the bookshelf and one which every Canadian should

be proud to possess.



E. F. C.



