Life of the Flycatcher (Animal Natural History Series)
by Alexander F. Skutch
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Description
The American flycatchers, also known as the tyrant flycatchers, are the largest New World family of birds. In this enchanting book, renowned ornithologist Alexander F. Skutch draws upon personal observations and extensive research to portray this family over its vast range.From the Canadian Arctic to Tierra del Fuego, the flycatcher's approximately 380 species live in habitats as diverse as rain forests and deserts, savannas and marshes, steamy tropical lowlands and bleak Andean heights. show more Some are among the smallest of birds; others are as large as thrushes. Although many are muted in color, a significant number feature brilliant markings, elegant tail plumes, or startling crests.Through long hours of close observation in Central America and northern South America, Skutch has learned the nesting habits, songs, and idiosyncracies of the lesser-known species. In the process he has come to believe that to call flycatchers tyrants is misleading. More aptly called tyrant-chasers, flycatchers pursue larger birds only to protect their own families as well as those of their bird neighbors. show lessTags
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Common Knowledge
- Original publication date
- 1997
- Dedication
- To the memory of Laca, the Gray-headed Chachalaca, who sat at my feet while I wrote this book, and her brother, Chacha, who rested on the windowsill.
- First words
- Of all my memories of flycatchers, one that remains most vivid is of an April morning I passed years ago watching a Boat-billed Flycatcher incubate in the top of a small silk-cotton tree in a pasture.
- Last words
- (Click to show. Warning: May contain spoilers.)Far from being tyrants of an avian community, many of them [flycatchers] are its guardians.
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Statistics
- Members
- 23
- Popularity
- 1,076,876
- Rating
- (3.00)
- Languages
- English
- Media
- Paper, Ebook
- ISBNs
- 3
