Shorebird ecology, conservation, and management /

Shorebirds are a very diverse group. Here, Colwell (Humboldt State), an avian ecologist of 30 years standing, has produced in 12 chapters a synthesis of their strategies in association with their environments, from reproductive and feeding behavior to spatial and population biology, all in relation to their respective morphology and physiology and their phylogenies and systematics. It is an ambitious effort, but one that will fill an important need for information on a group of birds whose existence is being threatened by dwindling available shoreline habitats. Chapter 13 focuses on human influences, and the final chapter (14) lists numerous resources, organizations, Web sites, etc. The book has few charts, graphs, and photographs, and is written more for specialists in ornithology and wildlife management than for nonspecialists. Extensive literature citations are provided at the ends of individual chapters. A very revealing table in the appendix lists all of the species of shorebirds in the world and their estimated current numbers. A fine book for libraries supporting studies in avian biology and wildlife management. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above. H. N. Cunningham Jr. emeritus, Pennsylvania State-Erie, Behrend College