Read our Q&A with Neville Davies here.
What is there not to love about the Hoopoe – packed with character, entertaining, subtle colours, a punk rocker-style head crest and a flight like a giant butterfly? During his research for this book, the author soon came to realize he had so much more to learn about this fascinating species which he shares with the reader here. As such, this book is for everyone, from the beginner, intermediate or expert alike, and to anyone who has an interest in birds and the natural world.
This book will open your eyes to the world of the Hoopoe, the most widespread of their genus, and once a resident in the UK, containing information and facts which are quite astonishing. Did you know a Hoopoe was once recorded flying at an altitude of 26,000 ft, there are records of Hoopoes killing rivals, they will eat frogs and small reptiles and they are a sacred bird in Egypt and the national bird of Israel? There is even a report of a World War 2 fighter ace who named his plane after the Hoopoe. From the fossil record to how they sing, from how they fly to what they eat, from their worldwide status to conservation, this book will cover everything there is to know about this magnificent bird which always commands your attention when seen.
Introduction – about the author
Preface - What is a Hoopoe
Chapter 1. Origins and Taxonomy
Chapter 2. Anatomy and Morphology
Chapter 3. Description
Chapter 4. Breeding
Chapter 5. Behaviour
Chapter 6. Communication
Chapter 7. Distribution
Chapter 8. Habitats
Chapter 9. Conservation
Chapter 10. Relationships
Chapter 11. References and Close
Chapter 12. Index