THE BIRDS OF ESSEX. By Simon Wood. Helm County Avifauna series.

2007 1st edition. 4to (180 x 246mm). Pp656. Colour photographs, b/w illustrations, graphs, tables, map end-papers, bibliography. Laminated boards.

"Essex is of national and international importance to many migrating and wintering wildfowl and waders, which can be found on the estuaries. Further inland, the Lea Valley harbours important populations of several species within the complex of reservoirs and gravel-pits. Elsewhere, the diverse habitats of woodland and parkland, heaths and commons, agricultural land and urban areas mean that at all times of year there is the opportunity to see upwards of 100 species in a day with little effort. This book analyses and summarises all the data collated and documented over the last 200 years and includes available records to the end of 2004. Introductory chapters discuss the geology and habitats of Essex and the amazing fossil bird record. The individual accounts provide an up-to-date status of each species and patterns of occurrence within Essex. A distribution map is included for most breeding species. A breakdown and analysis are provided for all county rarities. Superb line drawings and photographs illustrate the book, all by talented local artists and photographers. This book is an essential reference for anybody who has watched birds in this amazing county". Chapters include:- The county of Essex by David Corke and Simon Wood; Fossil birds in Essex by Michael Daniels; Archaeological remains and place names by Simon Wood; Wetland bird survey in Essex by Chris Gibson; Essex ornithology - a brief history by Nick Green; Essex museums and collections by Nick Green; Essex ornithological highlights by Nick Green; Using this book; Systematic list of the birds of Essex. Appendix 1: Category D species; Appendix 2: Category E species; Appendix 3: Unsubstantiated records and other records of interest; 2005 records; Scientific names of organisms mentioned in the text.