THE TEAL. By Matthieu Guillemain and Johan Elmberg.

2014 1st edition. 8vo (162 x 240mm). Pp320. Colour plates, b/w photographs and illustrations, graphs, tables, maps, extensive bibliography. Blue boards, spine titled in gilt.

This book examines the biology and habits of the teal in great detail, laying out the current state of knowledge in field. Includes a very extensive bibliography. "The common teal and green-winged teal are familiar birds of the wetlands and waterways of Eurasia and North America. Since they are colourful, easy to observe and abundant, especially in autumn and winter, teal have always been popular, with birdwatchers and hunters alike. They are also popular with waterfowl scientists. These ducks are excellent model species for ecological research; their small size creates strong constraints in terms of predation risk and energy requirements, leading them to rely on elaborate trade-off strategies throughout the year, and along their vast flyways. Research in these areas provides the backbone of this book. The Teal looks at distribution and trends in numbers, foraging ecology, breeding behaviour and population dynamics, and the management and conservation of these ducks. It provides a scientifically robust account of these species on which wetland managers, research scientists and the ornithological community may rely, with wider implications for the conservation and management of other waterfowl, and for ecological research in general. The perfect blend of ecological review and species monograph, this book represents the definitive work on two flagship species for wetland conservation." Main chapter headings include:- Names and relatives; General appearance and identification; Distribution and numbers; Movements and habitat use; Feeding ecology; Breeding ecology; Mortality and limiting factors; Demography; Management, harvest and conservation; The teal's future.