Feral Pigeons [Hardcover]

Richard F. Johnston (Author), Marian Janiga (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 8, 1995

Feral pigeons are among the most familiar and abundant birds in the world, urban creatures living in close association with humans yet possessing the characteristics of highly adapted wild birds. However, they are seldom studied, even though the domesticated pigeon has long been one of the major bird models for laboratory research. This definitive monograph focuses on the population, biology, and behavioral ecology of feral pigeons, including a thorough listing of primary references of U.S. and European scholarly literature. Professional and amateur ornithologists, pigeon breeders, and students will find this an invaluable and fascinating study of a species that has evolved from familiar breeds of domesticated birds.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"This is a detailed account of feral pigeon history and systematic biology, reproduction and diet, plumage and flight, behavior, population studies, selected environmental concerns, and the relationship of people with pigeons. There are numerous references and a detailed index. Illustrations are drawings, charts, graphs, maps, and black and white photographs. There is much interesting information about this very successful bird in this book. highly recommended."--Wildlife Activist

"It is about time that a book like this one filled the gap in our knowledge and appreciation of feral pigeons. . . .The topics covered in greatest detail by the book are morphological and genetic variation, together with reproductive biology; large amounts of primary data and analyses are given in table and figure form which should make the book useful to specialists. . . . It stands as an important reminder that, to understand and prevent the disappearance of animals that don't do well in our changing environment, we need to look at the whole spectrum of responses to human development, including cases where animals appear to thrive."--The Quarterly Review of Biology

About the Author

Richard F. Johnston is at University of Kansas (Emeritus). Marian Janiga is at High Tatras National Park.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 336 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (June 8, 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0195084098
• ISBN-13: 978-0195084092
• Product Dimensions: 8.6 x 7.1 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,878,915 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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