United States
£ GBP
One of the most obvious traits about parrots is their outstanding beauty. Yet the extraordinary truth is that no one had ever written a book to celebrate this aspect of these amazing birds, until now.
Rosemary Low takes a look at parrots and their plumage in a way that has never been done before. For 60 years she has marvelled at their unparalleled variety of colours and designs. From the 12 cm long Blue-crowned Hanging Parrot (Loriculus galgulus) a living tropical jewel, to the startling hyacinth plumage of the biggest parrot of the Neotropics (one metre in length), the surprises among the many species are never-ending.
The first part of this book focuses on their colours and their beauty. In one fascinating chapter, she describes the results of a poll of 44 leading parrot scientists, conservationists, artists and photographers from 15 countries for their "Top Ten Most Beautiful Parrots". Not to be missed! Part II provides details and more technical information on how parrot feathers get their colours (including pigments that are unique to parrots), why different areas of plumage vary in colour and what drives colouration – not only the need for camouflage. In Part III 45 parrot species are selected for an in-depth look at their plumage and habits.
'Parrots are undoubtedly amongst the most popular birds on the planet. Witness the number of people who keep them, watch them, draw and paint them, photograph them, and write about them. Rosemary Low is a prime example of the latter group, with innumerable articles and 30 books on the subject of parrots to her name. Yet still she manages to come up with a new slant and approach to the subject. [...] The book is thoroughly researched and eloquently written. Up to date details are included throughout, including recent taxonomic changes and scientific developments [...] In summary, this is another remarkable example of this author's prodigious output, and it will be a valuable and insightful read. I am sure you will learn something from it"
– Alan K Jones, BVetMed MRCVS, Parrots Magazine, May 2022
