THE GLORIOUS GROUSE: A NATURAL AND UNNATURAL HISTORY. By Brian P. Martin. Foreword by His Grace The Duke of Westminster.

1990 1st edition. 4to (193 x 248mm). Pp224. Colour and b/w photographs, illustrations, bibliography. Maroon cloth, spine titled in gilt.

Account of the grouse's rise to social prominence and popularity as a quarry species. The author "traces its remarkable story from earliest times to the present, detailing how grouse-shooters from royalty down have been prepared to go to enormous trouble and expense to follow their pursuit, even while the country was at war. We learn of early days walking-up over dogs, Victorian obsession with big bags, and today's highly commercial scene. To all this 'unnatural' history, the author has added the species' intriguing natural history. He discusses every aspect, from breeding to disease, distribution to lifespan, and explains how good moorland management benefits many species apart from grouse. ...With superb illustrations, many taken specially by the author, this is an essential book for both experienced and novice Guns as well as the birdwatcher, conservationist and social historian." Chapters include: From obscurity to poetry; A proper pursuit for gentlemen; The search for value; Driven to distraction; Sporting wars; Fighting spirit; A bad press; The keeper's story; A natural history; Driving force; Walking tall; For the greater good.