Simon Aspinall

Basics: 1996, softcover, 177 pages, 56 color photographs, 101 species reviewed, breeding maps

Aimed at just the breeding birds of the UAE, this book covers 101 species. Each bird is accompanied with an atlas-blocked map of the UAE to designate its breeding presence. The status is illustrated with a circle of various sizes to denote possible, probable, or confirmed breeding within the block.

The text, typically ¾ to a full page, addresses the natural history of the bird along with the present knowledge (as of the mid-1990s) of the breeding locations, distribution, and populations within the UAE. A brief review is also given for the breeding across the Middle East. Notes are provided on any threats and proposed conservation actions for the species.

Adding to the data are seven tables of various species or geographic information. There are also five maps/figures to show political, botanical, or species densities.

Enhancing the data-focus of this book are 56 very good color photographs of the birds plus 10 color photos of the various habitats found within the country.

Although this book might have a specific focus on a small region in the Middle East, it will be appreciated by those people with such an interest.… (més)