FINCHES. By I. Newton. New Naturalist No. 55.

(1972) 1978 reprint. 8vo (151 x 224mm). Pp288. Colour identification paintings, b/w photographs and illustrations, maps, bibliography. Green buckram, spine titled in gilt.

Generally regarded as one of the very best of the ornithological titles in the New Naturalist series. The "eighteen European finches are a fascinating group, and include some of our most familiar birds. Dr. Newton discusses all the aspects of the life of our finches - their status and history, their distribution and varied habitats, their populations, breeding, feeding, flocking, roosting and nesting." "The aim of this series is to interest the general reader in the wild life of Britain by recapturing the inquiring spirit of the old naturalists. The editors believe that the natural pride of the British public in the native fauna and flora, to which must be added concern for their conservation, is best fostered by maintaining a high standard of accuracy combined with clarity of exposition presenting the results of modern scientific research." Collins New Naturalist series No. 55.