Bird-Life of the Borders Records of Wild Sport and Natural History on Moorland and Sea

About this book

A facsimile reprint of this classic work, first published in 1889.

Hunter, traveller, artist, observer and protector of wildlife, Abel Chapman (1851-1927) initiated the Sabi Game-Reserve in South Africa (now the Kruger National Park), saved the Spanish ibex from extinction, discovered the main breeding place of flamingoes in Europe and elucidated the burrowing habits of grouse in snow. Houxty, his Northumbrian home for many years, became "a sort of second Selborne, a natural sanctuary for all kinds of wild things, and a focal point to which wandering naturalists and brother-sportsmen gathered like moths round a flame". Some of his best ornithological work was done in Northumberland and his first book, Bird-Life of the Borders, has been described as "a classic muniment of observation and field-work that alone would keep his name green through the ages". This first edition is illustrated by Chapman with 54 carefully observed ink drawings.

There is a new introduction by Peter Davis, Deputy Curator of the Hancock Museum, Newcastle upon Tyne.

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