Owls of Europe: Biology, Identification and Conservation - Hardcover

by Wolfgang Scherzinger (Author), Theodor Mebs (Author)

An essential compendium on the biology, identification, distribution and conservation of Europe's 13 species of owls.

Owls are fascinating birds, with remarkable adaptations for their lives as nocturnal hunters. Covering the 13 species of owls that occur across the continent, Owls of Europe features detailed drawings of typical positions, behaviours and facial expressions, alongside more than 300 photos selected to demonstrate age and subspecific variation, colour phases and the birds in flight.

This book includes up-to-date distribution maps and the latest European population estimates, along with detailed text on behaviour, voice, brood biology and juvenile development, life strategies, hunting techniques, choice of prey and habitat requirements for each species. It also explores human interactions with owls, from the threats posed to determined conservation efforts.

Owls of Europe is an essential book for birdwatchers, professional ornithologists and those who simply love owls.

Author Biography

Wolfgang Scherzinger is an Austrian ornithologist with a particular expertise in owls. His research focused on the Bavarian Forest National Park where he worked as a zoologist. He has been significantly involved in the forest's protection since 1971, and was involved in the reintroduction of both Eagle Owl and Ural Owl to the forest.

The late Theodor Mebs was a German ornithologist and author, who spent his career researching the biology of birds of prey.