THE GROUSE OF THE WORLD. By Paul A. Johnsgard.

1983 1st edition. 4to (200 x 255mm). Ppxviii,413. Colour paintings, b/w photographs and illustrations, maps, extensive bibliography. Fawn boards, spine titled in black.

"The first book in this century [20th] to cover the entire world assemblage of these birds". Authoritative treatment of the ecology and biology of all sixteen species of grouse and ptarmigans. Chapters include: Evolution and taxonomy; Physical characteristics; Molts and plumages; Physiological traits; Hybridization; Reproductive biology; Population ecology and dynamics; Social behavior and vocalizations; Aviculture and propogation; Hunting, recreation and conservation. Accounts of individual species - Sage grouse; Blue grouse; Spruce grouse; Sharp-winged grouse; Willow ptarmigan; Rock ptarmigan; White-tailed ptarmigan; Capercaillie; Black-billed capercaillie; Black grouse; Caucasian black grouse; Ruffed grouse; Hazel grouse; Black-breasted hazel grouse; Pinnated grouse; Sharp-tailed grouse. Plus three appendices - Name derivations of grouse and ptarmigans; Key to identification of grouse and ptarmigan species; Hunter harvest and population status estimates of grouse and ptarmigans.