Handbook of the Birds of the WorldVolume 9: Cotingas to Pipits and Wagtails

Description

Volume 9 covers nine families of Passeriformes, including the last of the suboscines and the first of the oscines. This volume explores a diverse range of species from both the Neotropic and Australasia, while also introducing globally familiar species like larks, swallows, and pipits.

This volume is significant for ornithologists and bird enthusiasts alike, as it includes the largest bird family in the series—Tyrannidae (tyrant-flycatchers), with 429 species. The content highlights species from various continents, from North America’s familiar Barn Swallow and Eurasian Skylark to Australia’s threatened Noisy Scrub-bird and the rare Liben Lark of Ethiopia.

The Australasian families—New Zealand wrens, scrub-birds, and lyrebirds—are included, often considered “transitional” between suboscines and oscines, providing a fascinating glimpse into evolutionary diversity.

The foreword by Richard C. Banks delves into the complexities of ornithological nomenclature, offering a historical perspective and practical insights on naming conventions in bird taxonomy.

This volume features a wealth of new information for both familiar and lesser-known species, with an emphasis on the conservation status of threatened species. Readers will find extensive coverage of a variety of birds, from the vividly colorful manakins and cotingas of the Neotropics to the globally recognized swallows and martins. The meticulous work of prominent ornithologists and photographers is reflected in the high-quality plates and photographs, many depicting species rarely captured on camera.

Key Features:

• Foreword by Richard C. Banks on the history and application of ornithological nomenclature.
• 78 colour plates and 440 photographs.
• 809 distribution maps.
• Approximately 6,000 bibliographical references.

This volume provides a thorough examination of species from the Neotropics, Australasia, and beyond, making it an invaluable reference for those studying or enjoying passerine birds.

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