The Strait of Gibraltar is famous as a major point of passage for Palaearctic birds migrating between their European breeding grounds and their winter quarters in Africa. Clive Finlayson, a native of the Rock and a trained ornithologist, presents a fascinating account of the region and its resident and transitory bird life.
The first chapter of the book describes the area, which includes the Coto Donana in the north and the Merja Zerga in the south, and the geographic and climatological characteristics which make it a suitable crossing place. In scope this book goes beyond the strict definition of the Strait and, following Irby's 19th century work, examines the rich area where Europe meets Africa. The chapters which follow describe in detail the migration patterns of the principal passage species including their origins, destinations, and overall numbers, showing how the precise conditions of weather and visibility affect the specific choice of route and timing of the crossing. The breeding and wintering bird communities are then considered and the ornithology of the entire region summarized.
Whether or not you have ever witnessed the thousands of raptors, storks, and other birds that may make this legendary crossing in a single day, this book will conjure up the spirit of this extraordinary place. Delightful illustrations by Ian Willis complete an important and entertaining book.
Key Features
* Contains a general description of this classic migration route
* Examines the influence of weather on migration
* Features species-by-species descriptions of migration patterns
The first chapter of the book describes the area, which includes the Coto Donana in the north and the Merja Zerga in the south, and the geographic and climatological characteristics which make it a suitable crossing place. In scope this book goes beyond the strict definition of the Strait and, following Irby's 19th century work, examines the rich area where Europe meets Africa. The chapters which follow describe in detail the migration patterns of the principal passage species including their origins, destinations, and overall numbers, showing how the precise conditions of weather and visibility affect the specific choice of route and timing of the crossing. The breeding and wintering bird communities are then considered and the ornithology of the entire region summarized.
Whether or not you have ever witnessed the thousands of raptors, storks, and other birds that may make this legendary crossing in a single day, this book will conjure up the spirit of this extraordinary place. Delightful illustrations by Ian Willis complete an important and entertaining book.
Key Features
* Contains a general description of this classic migration route
* Examines the influence of weather on migration
* Features species-by-species descriptions of migration patterns
