The Kookaburras' Song: Exploring Animal Behavior in Australia, 1st Edition

John Alcock

ISBN 10: 0816510504 / ISBN 13: 9780816510504

Published by University of Arizona Press, 1988

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Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Kookaburras' Song: Exploring Animal Behavior in Australia, 1st Edition
• Publisher: University of Arizona Press
• Publication Date: 1988
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0816510504
• ISBN 13: 9780816510504
• Binding: hardcover
• Illustrator: Marilyn Hoff Stewart
• Condition: Very Good

About this title

Synopsis

Book by John Alcock

Reviews

Not only are the animals exotic, their behavior sets them apart, too; Australia, as shown here, is a veritable paradise for the zoologist. Alcock (Sonoran Desert Spring), who spent a year there observing wildlife on beaches, in forests and deserts, introduces us to 27 species of birds, mammals and insects with particular focus on how they have adapted to environmental conditions. One species of bird (bell miner) manages its food supply for long-term benefits; another, the superb blue wren, practices reproductive cooperation, and nonbreeders help to feed the young. Alcock points out that neither marsupials (kangaroo, opossum) nor monotremes (platypus, echidna) are inferior mammals; each is superbly adapted to its environment. Also examined are water wasps and hangingflies, flying foxes (fruit bats), fairy penguins and bowerbirds. Those who admire the works of Stephen Jay Gould will want to read this one. First serial to Natural History Magazine; Natural History Book Club alternate.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.