HAWKS, FALCONS and FALCONRY. By Frank L. Beebe.

1976 1st edition. Folio (219 x 286mm). Pp320. B/w photographs, illustrations by the author, bibliography. Green cloth, spine titled in gilt, upper board with blind-stamped title.

Something of a classic in the field, this is a detailed description of the raptor as both wild animal and as (semi-) domesticated hunting animal. Part I covers: The general biology of raptors; Distinguishing characteristics; Energetics; Convergent evolution; Social behaviour; Reproduction; Post fledging and mortality; Longevity; Artificial propagation; Human attitudes. Part II covers: The birds of falconry; The goshawk; Sharp-shinned hawk; Cooper's hawk; Red-tailed hawk; Ferruginous hawk; Golden eagle; American kestrel; Merlin; Prairie falcon; Gyrfalcon; Peregrine falcon. Part III is entitled Falconry and deals with: Falconry equipment; The first and best kind; Obtaining birds; Eyas versus passager; Due care and attention; Training; Hawks in the field. Part IV is entitled The Endangering of the Peregrine: A Study in Environmental Strategy.