Migrating Raptors of the World: Their Ecology and Conservation
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Comprehensive writing on raptor migration
  • Migrating Raptors of the World
  • Good read
Migrating Raptors of the World: Their Ecology and Conservation
Keith L. Bildstein
Manufacturer: Cornell University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

GeneralGeneral | Biology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
OrnithologyOrnithology | Zoology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Ecology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
ConservationConservation | Environment | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
EcologyEcology | Environment | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Conservation | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Birdwatching | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
ReferenceReference | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Biology | Biological Sciences | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Raptors of North America: Natural History and Conservation Raptors of North America: Natural History and Conservation
  2. Hawks from Every Angle: How to Identify Raptors In Flight Hawks from Every Angle: How to Identify Raptors In Flight
  3. Return of the Condor: The Race to Save Our Largest Bird from Extinction Return of the Condor: The Race to Save Our Largest Bird from Extinction
  4. Raptors of the World Raptors of the World
  5. Soaring with Fidel: An Osprey Odyssey from Cape Cod to Cuba and Beyond Soaring with Fidel: An Osprey Odyssey from Cape Cod to Cuba and Beyond

ASIN: 080144179X

Book Description

Many raptors, the hawks, eagles, and falcons of the world, migrate over long distances, often in impressively large numbers. Many avoid crossing wide expanses of water and follow "flyways" to optimize soaring potential. Atmospheric conditions and landscape features, including waterways and mountain ranges, funnel these birds into predictable bottlenecks through which thousands of daytime birds of prey may pass in a short time. Birders and ornithologists also congregate at these locations to observe the river of raptors passing overhead (as did hunters in the United States in the past and in some countries even today). Keith L. Bildstein has studied migrating raptors on four continents and directs the conservation science program at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Pennsylvania, the world's first refuge for migratory birds of prey. In this book, he details the stories and successes of twelve of the world's most important raptor-viewing spots, among them Cape May Point, New Jersey; Veracruz, Mexico; Kéköldi, Costa Rica; the Strait of Gibralter, Spain; and Elat, Israel. During peak migration, when the weather is right, the skies at these sites, as at Hawk Mountain, can fill with thousands of birds in a single field of view.

Bildstein, whose knowledge of the phenomenon of raptor migration is comprehensive, provides an accessible account of the history, ecology, geography, science, and conservation aspects surrounding the migration of approximately two hundred species of raptors between their summer breeding sites and their wintering grounds. He summarizes current knowledge about how the birds' bodies handle the demands of long-distance migration and how they know where to go. Migrating Raptors of the World also includes the ecological and conservation stories of several intriguing raptor migrants, including the Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Bald Eagle, Western Honey Buzzard, Northern Harrier, Grey-faced Buzzard, Steppe Buzzard, and Amur Falcon.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Comprehensive writing on raptor migration.......2007-08-01

One of the criticisms of science is that scientists are 'preaching to the choir', that is, there is difficulty in passing scientific findings outside of the scientific community and into the general public where important on-the-ground decisions are made. In this book, Keith demonstrates the ability to take the vast body of scientific literature, as it pertains to raptors, and organize it in a way which allows the reader to feel at ease with the subject matter. A true eloquence is evident considering it was all done without the need to 'dumb down' the science which remains the foundation of the book. Each chapter, heavily cited, will be entertaining and educational to anyone interested in raptors and their conservation.

5 out of 5 stars Migrating Raptors of the World.......2007-01-09

In his role as Sarkis Acopian Director of Conservation Science at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Keith Bildstein has arguably studied raptors on a more global scale than any person alive, both in person and in the literature. He has put this experience to good effect in this excellent synthesis of the research on raptor migration ecology around the world. The inclusion of information from the tropics, Asia, Australia, Africa, and South America make this book a big advancement over its predecessors. Bildstein's concise and precise text uses words economically to explain scientific phenomena and details of raptor biology clearly in a way that is accessible to amateur ornithologists and conservationists, while still being of interest and value to professionals. The references alone form a valuable body of work for anyone doing research in the field. And the migration life histories of eight species are unique and interesting, showing how individual species apply the general ecological principles of migration ecology in varying ways. Every hawkwatcher and raptor researcher will definitely want to add this to their libraries; birders and naturalists of all interests will be enriched in their understanding of the natural world by this book; and ecologists and conservationists of all stripes should own this work since it is about some of the sentinel species of earth's environment. I give it my highest recommendation and it would make a great Christmas gift for any of the above.

4 out of 5 stars Good read.......2006-10-31

To me, one of the most boring topics to read about is bird migration. This topic puts me to sleep, it is that boring. This book, however, is interesting. The information is presented in a very easy manner to understand and it makes the topic of migration interesting. This book sites particular species as they migrate and provides theories and other information about the reasons for migration. Very good and informative.
Raptors of the World (Princeton Field Guides)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Buono (quasi)
  • Beautifully done
  • T.T
  • The Eagle Has Landed
  • The Best One For Such Magnificent Bird Group
Raptors of the World (Princeton Field Guides)
James Ferguson-Lees , and David A. Christie
Manufacturer: Princeton University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Biology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
OrnithologyOrnithology | Zoology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Biology | Biological Sciences | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
BirdsBirds | Field Guides | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Birdwatching | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
ReferenceReference | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Owls of the World: Their Lives, Behavior and Survival Owls of the World: Their Lives, Behavior and Survival
  2. Shorebirds of North America, Europe, and Asia: A Guide to Field Identification (Princeton Field Guides) Shorebirds of North America, Europe, and Asia: A Guide to Field Identification (Princeton Field Guides)
  3. Albatrosses, Petrels and Shearwaters of the World (Princeton Field Guides) Albatrosses, Petrels and Shearwaters of the World (Princeton Field Guides)
  4. Birds of South America: Non-Passerines: Rheas to Woodpeckers (Princeton Illustrated Checklists) Birds of South America: Non-Passerines: Rheas to Woodpeckers (Princeton Illustrated Checklists)
  5. A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors

ASIN: 0691126844

Book Description

This new field guide covers all of the world's kites, vultures, harriers, hawks, buzzards, eagles, and falcons.

Based on essential sections of the widely acclaimed handbook Raptors of the World by the same authors, but with updated text, maps, and plates, it shows every species in a selection of different plumages, with concise facing texts and distribution maps.

It provides an easy-to-use and portable reference to one of the world's largest, most popular, and most challenging avian groups.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Buono (quasi).......2007-03-21

La sovracopertina del libro si presenta parzialmente rovinata perché il libro non è stato imballato in modo adeguato. L'orribile ordine di spedizione è stato INCOLLATO sulla sovracopertina e le tracce sono andate via solo con molta fatica (e parzialmente rovinando la sovracopertina).
Per il resto, il volume è in ottime condizioni.

5 out of 5 stars Beautifully done.......2006-11-06

This book contains some beautiful illustrations and I'd recommend it to anyone interested in raptors.

5 out of 5 stars T.T.......2005-12-02

This book is the ultimate book on all birds of prey. There is no other book that can eclipse the effort the two authors put into this book. The Helm field guide series( which this book belongs) is the most through study of any bird gruop. This book has exhausting information from description, feeding habits, to population and movements(migration habits). This book might be exspensive, but it is worth every penny. Raptors are among the most challenging bird groups to study, and this book is need to indentify them accurately. Also, if you like studying Gulls, the book "Gulls of North America, Europe, Asia" is another good book to buy. It's said that gulls are the most challenging bird groups to identify. Buy this book with this one, and you will have a less of a hard time indentifying this two of the most difficult bird groups.

5 out of 5 stars The Eagle Has Landed.......2005-02-25

I have about 1000 books on Birds and Natural History and recently added this gem to my collection.Trying to write a review on this volume is akin to trying to do one on the Bible.One could easily write 25 pages and the surface wouldn't even be scratched.
First of all, this is not the type of book one buys for a Field Guide.It covers all the 313 species of raptors scattered all over the world.That's why you'll see reviews from different countries because it is as useful to someone living in Australia as to someone in Iceland.Obviously ,it wouldn't be carried around in the field for the purpose of identifying a raptor soaring overhead.It is really an Encyclopedia for the world's raptors.When looked at that way, it is a superb book.In one book, you can look up any raptor and see excellent illustrations,descriptions,distribution,behaviour,etc.,plus a myriad of references if you want more information.With nearly 1000 pages,one might ask "What more is there to write?"Well,lots ,this book averages out to about 3 pages for each bird.Heck,for some of these birds it woud be easy to find a shelf full of books.
Living here in Toronto,over the past 18 years I have seen 22 of these species locally, and several of them only once or twice.Those being,Black Vulture,Swallow-tailed Kite,Mississippi Kite,Swainson's Hawk,Ferruginious Hawk and Prairie Falcon.On top of that,8 more elsewhere in North America.That leaves only Hook-billed Kite,that I have much hope for seeing in North America,and at that my hopes are very slim.Then again,who knows,maybe the Red -footed Falcon that showed up in the Eastern US might appear again.
However,all these other birds exist and even if I can't travel the world to see them ,it is still nice to have a book to read up on any one of them when one appears in a novel or other literature.
The Golden Eagle on the cover is an excellent choice for us here,as it is the favorite raptor seen regularly at our watches in southern Ontario.To top it off ,on the back cover there is an illustration showing what one can see at a Hawk Watch.It was on April 15,1994 that I saw an, extremely rare for here, Swallow-tailed Kite soar past in a kettle like this.Of course they are much more common in Florida where we were entertained by several last April.
Well,that's my review;Ilove this book and would highly recommend it for anyone who is "into" Birding.It would be an excellent special gift to buy for any friend who is a Birder for a birthday,Xmas,or any occasion,you can't go wrong.
As to the reviewer who lamented that owls were not included;the terms, Birds of Prey,Raptors,Hawks,Predators,etc., do get used loosely;particularly by non-experts.I once heard Roger Tory Peterson reply to the question,"What makes an excellent Birder?"He replied,"A good Birder is someone who likes birds.An excllent Birder is someone who likes birds a whole lot." It was he who did so much to make Birding popular and easy for so many people ,"novices" to "experts".
If you get too uptight over it all,just remember:
IF YOU WANT TO SOAR
WITH THE EAGLES
IN THE MORNING--
YOU CAN'T HOOT
WITH THE OWLS
AT NIGHT!














i

5 out of 5 stars The Best One For Such Magnificent Bird Group.......2005-02-08

One of the best and authorative book ever since publish on the Raptors of the world. Covering 313 species of the raptors across the world. It has vast bibilography and information on each species like habitat, ecology, behaviour etc. The book contains a wealth of detailed information on identification and distribution, with a full description of each species, including reference to all recognized races.Habitat and range for all species, together with information on movements and breeding behavior, are also covered. The depictions differentiate adults, immatures, and most of the distinctive races.The detailed and accurate text and spectacular color illustrations will make this book indispensable to all ornithologists and birders. This will be, undoubtedly, the standard work on thrushes for many years to come.

* Comprehensive identification guide to all 313 species of raptors throughout the world
* Detailed text covering identification, description, geographical variation, voice, status and distribution, movements, habitat, behavior, and measurements
* Each of the 313 species is described thoroughly and accurately, and every plumage and variation is shown in more than two thousand color illustrations plus hundreds of black-and-white drawings. Both large-scale and small-scale range maps show in detail where each species has been found.

ONE OF THE MUST HAVE EDITION FOR SERIOUS BIRDERS ACROSS THE WORLD FOR SUCH A DIFFICULT GROUP OF BIRDS.

The View from Hawk Mountain: The Story of the World's First Raptor Sanctuary
Average customer rating: Not rated
    The View from Hawk Mountain: The Story of the World's First Raptor Sanctuary
    Michael Harwood
    Manufacturer: Stackpole Books
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback

    Mid AtlanticMid Atlantic | Northeast | Regions | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Pennsylvania | States | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books
    BirdwatchingBirdwatching | Adventure | Specialty Travel | Travel | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Birdwatching | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
    ReferenceReference | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
    OrnithologyOrnithology | Zoology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
    Similar Items:
    1. Hawks Aloft: The Story of Hawk Mountain Hawks Aloft: The Story of Hawk Mountain
    2. Hawks from Every Angle: How to Identify Raptors In Flight Hawks from Every Angle: How to Identify Raptors In Flight
    3. Hawks in Flight: The Flight Identification of North American Migrant Raptors Hawks in Flight: The Flight Identification of North American Migrant Raptors

    ASIN: 0811729761
    A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors (A Volume in the AP Natural World Series) (Ap Natural World)
    Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
    • Finally, a useable book for raptor id
    • Soar With the Falcons!
    • Hawks and Birds of Prey
    • A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors
    • Useful field guide, shows variability of morphs
    A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors (A Volume in the AP Natural World Series) (Ap Natural World)
    Brian K. Wheeler
    Manufacturer: Academic Press
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback

    WildlifeWildlife | Animals | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Biology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
    OrnithologyOrnithology | Zoology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Biology | Biological Sciences | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Birdwatching | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
    ReferenceReference | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
    Similar Items:
    1. Hawks from Every Angle: How to Identify Raptors In Flight Hawks from Every Angle: How to Identify Raptors In Flight
    2. A Field Guide to Hawks of North America A Field Guide to Hawks of North America
    3. Hawks in Flight: The Flight Identification of North American Migrant Raptors Hawks in Flight: The Flight Identification of North American Migrant Raptors
    4. Shorebirds of North America: The Photographic Guide Shorebirds of North America: The Photographic Guide
    5. Sparrows of the United States and Canada: The Photographic Guide Sparrows of the United States and Canada: The Photographic Guide

    ASIN: 0127455310

    Amazon.com

    Considered the definitive raptor identification guide for North America, this essential resource for birders includes photos and text for distinguishing between hawks, falcons, eagles, and vultures in the field, paying careful attention to plumage variations in juveniles and adults.

    Book Description

    Whether soaring or perched, diurnal birds of prey often present challenging identification problems for the bird enthusiast. Variable plumage, colour morphs, and unique individual characteristics are just some of the factors bird watchers must consider when identifying the different species. In this authoritative reference, two of the world's top experts on raptors provide an essential guide to the variations in the species, allowing for easier recognition of key identification points. All the distinguishing marks described have been exhaustively tested in a wide range of field conditions by the authors as well as the colleagues and students who have learned from them.

    Key Features:
    * The only complete photographic guide to North American diurnal birds of prey
    * Includes all species, common and rare
    * Written by well-known experts

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars Finally, a useable book for raptor id.......2007-03-10

    Being a naturalist from the age of seven or so, I have long been a keen observer of birds with particular attention paid to the raptors and soaring birds. All the books I had previously owned or seen about raptors stop far short of giving the info necessary for identifying the hawks and eagles of various ages and genders, as many of them will resemble another breed at various levels of maturity and in different seasons. This book almost eliminates those problems, giving excellent photos and descriptions that enable positive identification provided the observer gets a good enough look at the bird. It also provides useable field id pointers that will eliminate many questions with only a "sketchy" look at a flying or sitting raptor.
    A good book that should sit on the front seat of any raptor friend's car; one that will be used time and again in the field.

    5 out of 5 stars Soar With the Falcons!.......2007-01-18

    This masterpiece is one of the best field guides for raptors in North America. Readers are treated to several pictures of each type of bird. Raptors are shown perched and in flight, face on and in side view. Readers also see the field markings on the birds which are fully explained in a clear, direct way. A guide to helping readers identify the differences among the raptors is also provided. This is an excellent, outstanding work.

    5 out of 5 stars Hawks and Birds of Prey.......2006-02-25

    This is by far the very best book I have ever seen. The photos and details are just Great. I would advise anyone that watchs for these beautiful birds to have this as a guide!!

    5 out of 5 stars A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors.......2003-03-11

    This is the best photographic guide to north american raptors available. The photos are very clear so you can see details on plumage. It also includes multiple photos of the species that have morphs, which is very helpful in the field. This is not a book I would recommend if you are using it for written reference. But I give it 5 stars for a field reference guide!

    5 out of 5 stars Useful field guide, shows variability of morphs.......2001-10-21

    This is simply the best field guide for North American diurnal raptors that I have seen. Unlike some other photgraphic guides, it provides several images of each species in poses that one is likely to see in the field: perched and soaring from above and the side (showing field marks of top of wing and tail). It shows several examples of different morphs and ages for most birds. This is critical in understanding the variability in markings within a species. In addition, it has a section on field identification problems, detailing differences between similar looking birds. To my knowledge, there is no substitute.

    However, the paperback version is somewhat cheaply produced. The publisher should improve the binding and the quality of paper for this book. Try not to get it wet.
    The Raptor and the Lamb: Predators and Prey in the Living World
    Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
    • Good survey, though with limited theme
    • Interesting look into Nature's nooks and crannies
    • Just okay
    • Science for the non-scientist
    • Very interesting
    The Raptor and the Lamb: Predators and Prey in the Living World
    Christopher McGowan
    Manufacturer: Henry Holt & Company
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover

    Nature WritingNature Writing | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
    ReferenceReference | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Zoology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
    Animal Behavior & CommunicationAnimal Behavior & Communication | Zoology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Zoology | Biological Sciences | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
    ASIN: 0805042989

    Amazon.com

    "Most animals are either eaten or eat other animals," writes zoologist Christopher McGowan. "Plants, too, are often consumed by animals. Consequently the chances of being devoured, or of eating some other organism in order to survive, are exceedingly high." McGowan looks at several kinds of predator-prey relationships, examining such creatures as the supposedly rapacious crocodile (a surprisingly light eater, when all the facts are in), the big cats (whose prey usually outweighs them but cannot compete with a lion's or tiger's explosive force), and a host of snakes, spiders, and insects. Packed with facts, The Raptor and the Lamb makes a fine--if sometimes gruesome--introduction to biology.

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars Good survey, though with limited theme.......2006-04-23

    Overall, is a good survey of a huge subject: the tactics used by predators and prey in nature. It's comprehensive, accessible, and insightful. There are areas where I would have liked more exploration, but that's inevitable with a broad subject. The focus is mostly on predators, touching on nearly all major groups. Prey are discussed more in response, though a few sections deal with them specifically (e.g. plants).

    The book is organized based on the type of animal rather than the strategies used. Although this is a logical approach, he does little to tie the book together with broader theories. The few cases where he does (for example, his occasional mention of pursuit vs. ambush predators) are notable for their rarity.

    One caveat is that the author appears to misunderstand evolution. In the most egregious example he argues against the arms-race model:

    "Nor is it necessarily an advantage for one of antagonists to respond to improvements in the other. Suppose a prey species evolved some improvement in its defensive strategies, perhaps better acceleration or more alertness to potential dangers. If the predator did not coevolve some corresponding improvement in its hunting techniques, it would catch fewer prey. The number of prey would therefore increase, but this could improve the predator's chance of catching them, so, it the long term, its hunting success might not suffer."

    It's bad enough that a professor of zoology would assume species selection, but he seems unaware that he is saying anything controversial. Fortunately, such references are few, and they detract little from the book.

    3 out of 5 stars Interesting look into Nature's nooks and crannies.......2004-11-04

    Author McGowan takes the reader through various groupings of life on earth in order to examine the relationship between predators and their prey. Mammals, reptiles, birds, fish, arthropods, plants, insects, plankton and dinosaurs all take their turn in the spotlight as McGowan selects some of the more interesting predator/prey relationships among them. The chapters each contain an italicized graphic illustration of a predator doing its thing, and a discussion of that predator along with others in its class. For the most part, the discussion describes the behavior and physical characteristics that contribute to the success of the predator, and also notes the strategies that the prey employs to foil the predator. While the writing breaks down the information into laymen's terms, McGowan occasionally delves into a slightly more technical issue, and defines vocabulary and scientific concepts accordingly.
    The Good and the Bad:
    I have a lot of negative feedback on this book, and I think that it generally comes down to the fact that the book was written and edited sloppily, as much as it pains me to knock the achievement of a likable English-Canadian gentleman who is obviously well-versed in the subject matter. But I noticed at least two or three word usage (such as team for teem, infection for infestation) errors, and, more glaringly, the italicized prose was just not consistently presented. I thought that McGowan was making up the scenes as exemplary of the typical predator foray, but in the chapter on plankton, the flowery writing is used to describe McGowan and a group of students collecting plankton from the sea. A final italicized section talks about a British man working on his garden and interacting with his wife and infant son. While I felt that the language in the sections was too flowery to be considered good writing, the bigger distraction was wondering where they came from, and why they weren't presented in a consistent format. If they are things that McGowan has seen with his own eyes, how can dinosaurs be included? If he's making them up as exemplary, then why are there atypical situations presented which then have to be corrected with the non-italicized writing? And why would he insert one, and possibly two stories from his own life? Further complicating matters is the fact that sometimes the non-italicized prose seems to serve the same function as the italicized prose, namely to provide a descriptive illustration of the concepts discussed. But even that definition doesn't hold, because the plankton-collecting story differs from the others in that there are no predators or prey being described. If there is some sort of logic involved in their conception and presentation, I still object to them based on their overwrought language and mysterious origins. Amusingly, McGowan gives a sort of disclaimer in the introduction, letting us know that the presentation of certain gory details may be off-putting, but is nevertheless necessary. When I read it, I expected that the discussion would be a little graphic. But, it seems like the disclaimer pertains to some very gratuitous choices of phrase in the italicized text that is not essential to any aspect of the book.
    On the good end of it, the subject matter is fascinating, and the bulk of the text is both accessible and informative.
    What I learned:
    Sperm whales may stun their prey with sonic blasts before eating them. Plants have hairs in order to discourage insect predators; some of them serve to expose more of an egg sac to the air, which reduces the success of the hatchlings, and others might break off into a waxy substance that accumulates on the legs of aphids and other insect predators. Some bugs eat poisonous plants and then use the poison to protect themselves from bigger predators. Killer whales are smart enough to cooperatively splash the water in order to tip over an ice floe with a seal on it. Lions are slower than their prey, but compensate by having a better acceleration when they start; so, if a lion is within 50 yards of its prey, it has a good chance of taking it down.

    2 out of 5 stars Just okay.......2000-11-21

    The relationship between predator and prey is hard to explain without lapsing into inapplicable morality and/or sentimentality. This 'popular science' type book shows valient effort, but doesn't entirely manage to avoid the traps.

    It does have good points, to be sure. It is approachable for the non-scientist, both in language and in concept. It does attempt to show some balance by presenting plants as victims of herbivores, as well as herbivores as victims of carnivores. It elucidates the various theories of the evolutionary backgrounds of predator-prey adaptations pretty clearly.

    However, in an attempt to be gripping, the book delves into shameless anthropomorphism and value-laden language, especially in the narrative portions. Despite the fact (clearly stated in the explanatory portions of the book) that even a good predator on a good day succeeds in less than fifty percent of hunting attempts, a predator is 'shown' missing a prey animal only once (and even then the predator goes on to catch a different animal.) As a result, the 'story' parts of the book create a misapprehension that the more 'scientific' sections include an obligatory protest against - namely, that the predator is a killing machine with an almost moral quality, engaged in a daily slaughter of the innocents. Even the title plays into this misapprehension: No raptor is shown eating a lamb in the course of the book - indeed few raptors are even capable of preying on lambs - and no lambs are shown being eaten by any other predators either; but in our language the rapicious raptor and the innocent, fluffy lamb create a much greater emotional impact than, say, the shark and the seal or the lion and the wildebeast.

    5 out of 5 stars Science for the non-scientist.......2000-11-16

    This is the best and I stress best book you can possibly get for someone that you believe or know enjoys biology or natural studies. However, it goes beyond that, this book is perfect for the person who likes cats and dogs and wants to know their specific differences and how they act in the wild. His writing style is very interesting and informative (not dumbed down but not highly scientific). A very excellent book for a plane ride or just a relaxing read (meanwhile you may learn something). Highly recommended. Hopefully some of his out-of-print books will be reprinted.

    4 out of 5 stars Very interesting.......2000-06-29

    This book read, in part, like a novel with good guys (nature's prey) and the bad guys (the predators)...it was a gruesome, at times, but realistic book about survival. I enjoyed it very much.
    Raptors!: The Nastiest Dinosaurs
    Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    • give it a miss
    • Raptors!: The Nastiet Dinosaurs
    • This book has much more up-to-date info on Dromaeosaurids
    • This book is very cool!
    Raptors!: The Nastiest Dinosaurs
    Don Lessem
    Manufacturer: Little Brown & Co (Juv)
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover

    NonfictionNonfiction | Dinosaurs | Animals | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
    Earth SciencesEarth Sciences | Science, Nature & How It Works | Children's Books | Subjects | Books | Fiction | Nonfiction
    GeneralGeneral | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
    ASIN: 0316521191

    Customer Reviews:

    1 out of 5 stars give it a miss.......2003-03-20

    bought this book along with five others on
    dinosaurs for my 7yr old son. his dinosaur crazy
    and didnt think much of this one.pictures are very
    unreal and my son was not impressed..
    if your buying this for a child who likes to look at
    the pictures because their level of reading is not yet
    great ..then dont..

    5 out of 5 stars Raptors!: The Nastiet Dinosaurs.......2002-10-24

    Raptors!: The Nastiest Dinosaurs written by Don Lessem and illustrated by David Peters is a book about dinosaurs, but more specifically raptors.

    "Raptors" is a beautifully illustrated book that show what the different raptors might have looked like. Raptors are orinitholestes from which we get archaeopteryx, compsognathus, utahraptor, deinonychus, dromaeosaurus and velociraptor. The raptors varied greatly in size, but they all had killer claws on their hind legs that could disembowel prey with a single swipe.

    What I like about this book is that in a straight forward mannor the author has listed under each species: the maning of the name, size, skull length, weight, period(time when alive, place enviornment, what fossils found, and possible prey.

    The illustrations are excellent giving meaning to what the author is trying to describe. Skeletal comparisons and pictures of the various dig sights abound making this little book a wonderful descriptive book.

    For comparetive anatomy of raptors this book rates very highly and the text is descriptive. For a book that looks like a childrens book, this book packs in a lot of information.

    5 out of 5 stars This book has much more up-to-date info on Dromaeosaurids.......1998-04-26

    It shows the REAL velociraptor. As well as Utahraptor, deinonychus and dromeoasaurus. And some that aren't even named yet! Also, this book shows you dinos who are called Raptors who aren't. I love this book. Had it since 5th grade.

    5 out of 5 stars This book is very cool!.......1997-04-25

    This book portrays raptors the way they are meant to be: agile and viscious. As well, this book is very informative, and very well illustrated. I learned alot about the unnamed giant raptor species of Asia, and it's the only book I've ever that mentions Utahraptors,(other than Raptor Red by Dr. Robert T. Bakker). -Sarah M. Silverman
    21st Century U.S. Air Force Stealth Aircraft, Radar Evading, Low-Observable Airplanes, F-117A Nighthawk, B-2 Spirit, F-22A Raptor (Two CD-ROM Set)
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      21st Century U.S. Air Force Stealth Aircraft, Radar Evading, Low-Observable Airplanes, F-117A Nighthawk, B-2 Spirit, F-22A Raptor (Two CD-ROM Set)
      World Spaceflight News
      Manufacturer: Progressive Management
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: CD-ROM
      ASIN: 142200581X

      Product Description

      The incredible story of the stealth airplanes of the U.S. Air Force – F-117A Nighthawk, B-2 Spirit, F-22A Raptor - is told in words and beautiful photographs in this up-to-date set of two CD-ROM discs. F-117A NIGHTHAWK – The F-117A Nighthawk is the world's first operational aircraft designed to exploit low-observable stealth technology. This precision-strike aircraft penetrates high-threat airspace and uses laser-guided weapons against critical targets. The unique design of the single-seat F-117A provides exceptional combat capabilities. About the size of an F-15 Eagle, the twin-engine aircraft is powered by two General Electric F404 turbofan engines and has quadruple redundant fly-by-wire flight controls. Air refuelable, it supports worldwide commitments and adds to the deterrent strength of U.S. military forces. The F-117A can employ a variety of weapons and is equipped with sophisticated navigation and attack systems integrated into a digital avionics suite that increases mission effectiveness and reduces pilot workload. The first flight over the Nevada test ranges was on June 18, 1981, only 31 months after the full-scale development decision. B-2 SPIRIT - The B-2 Spirit is a multi-role bomber capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions. A dramatic leap forward in technology, the bomber represents a major milestone in the U.S. bomber modernization program. The B-2 brings massive firepower to bear, in a short time, anywhere on the globe through previously impenetrable defenses. Along with the B-52 and B-1B, the B-2 provides the penetrating flexibility and effectiveness inherent in manned bombers. Its low-observable, or "stealth," characteristics give it the unique ability to penetrate an enemy's most sophisticated defenses and threaten its most valued, and heavily defended, targets. Its capability to penetrate air defenses and threaten effective retaliation provide a strong, effective deterrent and combat force well into the 21st century. The revolutionary blending of low-observable technologies with high aerodynamic efficiency and large payload gives the B-2 important advantages over existing bombers. Its low-observability provides it greater freedom of action at high altitudes, thus increasing its range and a better field of view for the aircraft's sensors. Its unrefueled range is approximately 6,000 nautical miles (9,600 kilometers). F-22A RAPTOR - The F-22A Raptor is the Air Force's newest fighter aircraft. Its combination of stealth, supercruise, maneuverability, and integrated avionics, coupled with improved supportability, represents an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities. The Raptor performs both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions allowing full realization of operational concepts vital to the 21st century Air Force. F-22A , a critical component of the Global Strike Task Force, is designed to project air dominance, rapidly and at great distances and defeat threats attempting to deny access to our nation's Air Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps. The F-22A cannot be matched by any known or projected fighter aircraft. A combination of sensor capability, integrated avionics, situational awareness, and weapons provides first-kill opportunity against threats. The F-22A possesses a sophisticated sensor suite allowing the pilot to track, identify, shoot and kill air-to-air threats before being detected. Significant advances in cockpit design and sensor fusion improve the pilot's situational awareness. In the air-to-air configuration the Raptor carries six AIM-120 AMRAAMs and two AIM-9 Sidewinders. This incredible CD-ROM set is packed with over 70,000 pages reproduced using Adobe Acrobat PDF software - allowing direct viewing on Windows and Macintosh systems. The Acrobat cataloging technology adds enormous value and uncommon functionality to this impressive collection of government documents and material. Our news and educational discs are privately compiled collections of official
      Birds of Prey: An Identification Guide to the Raptors of the World
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Birds of Prey: An Identification Guide to the Raptors of the World
        James Ferguson-Lees
        Manufacturer: Houghton Mifflin Company
        ProductGroup: Book
        Binding: Hardcover

        BirdsBirds | Field Guides | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
        GeneralGeneral | Birdwatching | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
        ReferenceReference | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
        OrnithologyOrnithology | Zoology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
        ASIN: 0395514207
        Conservation Studies of Raptors: Based on the Proceedings of the Second World Conference on Birds of Prey, Held in Thessaloniki, Greece, April 1982 (Technical Publications #5)
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          Conservation Studies of Raptors: Based on the Proceedings of the Second World Conference on Birds of Prey, Held in Thessaloniki, Greece, April 1982 (Technical Publications #5)
          Greece) World Conference on Birds of Prey (2nd : 1982 : Thessalonike , and Ian Newton
          Manufacturer: Princeton Univ Pr
          ProductGroup: Book
          Binding: Paperback

          ZoologyZoology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books | Amphibians | Anatomy | Animal Behavior & Communication | Animal Psychology | General | Genetics | Ichthyology | Invertebrates | Mammals | Ornithology | Pathology & Parasitology | Physiology | Primatology | Reptiles | Research & Ethics | Vertebrates
          ConservationConservation | Environment | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
          Hunting & FishingHunting & Fishing | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books | Fishing | General & Anthologies | Hunting | Shooting
          GeneralGeneral | Conservation | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
          ReferenceReference | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
          GeneralGeneral | Greece | Europe | History | Subjects | Books
          ASIN: 094688806X
          The Raptor & the Lamb: Predators & Prey in the Living World
          Average customer rating: Not rated
            The Raptor & the Lamb: Predators & Prey in the Living World
            Christopher McGowan
            Manufacturer: Diane Pub Co
            ProductGroup: Book
            Binding: Hardcover
            ASIN: 0788198017

            Product Description

            Provides a guided tour of predator-prey relationships through the very different but often overlapping worlds of mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, plants, insects, & microorganisms, as well as the fossilized record of the dinosaurs. We learn, in every instance, not only the intricacies of interdependence in the vast chain of being but also the astonishing adaptability that is inherent in nature, whether the drama be played out on the African plains, in the depths of the ocean, or in the familiar confines of our own backyard. The author is Curator of Vertebrate Paleontology at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto & professor of zoology at the University of Toronto. Illustrations.

            Books:

            1. Mr. Sammler's Planet (Penguin Classics)
            2. North Carolina Birds
            3. Not Even Wrong: The Failure of String Theory And the Search for Unity in Physical Law
            4. Our Iceberg Is Melting: Changing and Succeeding Under Any Conditions
            5. Parallel Worlds: A Journey Through Creation, Higher Dimensions, and the Future of the Cosmos
            6. Parrots of the World: An Identification Guide
            7. Problems of Democratic Transition and Consolidation: Southern Europe, South America, and Post-Communist Europe
            8. Red-Tails in Love: A Wildlife Drama in Central Park
            9. Representation Theory: A First Course (Graduate Texts in Mathematics)
            10. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches (2nd Edition)

            Books Index

            Books Home

            Recommended Books

            1. Mark Twain: A Life
            2. History: Fiction or Science
            3. History: Fiction or Science
            4. Heading South, Looking North: A Bilingual Journey
            5. How The Russian Snow Maiden Helped Santa Claus
            6. Introduction to Cosmology
            7. Large Carnivores and the Conservation of Biodiversity: Biodiversity
            8. The Princess Who Changed the World
            9. How to Manage Residential Property for Maximum Cash Flow and Resale Value
            10. The Other War: Letters from a Gi in India in 1944 and 1945