Table of Contents

Preface and acknowledgements
1. Introduction and influences
2. Origins
3. Classification and physiology
4. Status and distributions
5. Behavioural traits
6. Territory and species relationships
7. The senses
8. Flight, plumage and moult
9. Feeding ecology
10. Nesting, fledging and dispersal
11. Factors influencing numbers
12. Conservation
13. Folklore, superstitions and culture
14. An island race?
Appendix 1. Scientific names of species mentioned in the text
Appendix 2. Selected examples of prey diversity
Appendix 3. Habitat and food preferences of the main small mammal prey
Appendix 4. Location map of UK Bird Observatories
References
Index

Promotional Information

The first-ever monograph of the Tawny Owl - a beautiful and captivating hunter

About the Author

Jeff Martin is a field ornithologist with a passion for studying owls and the small mammal species that they rely upon for food. His keen observations led to him being appointed Suffolk Mammal Recorder in the 1990s, until his research on owls eventually took over his available time. He has previously written two books about Barn Owls: Barn Owls in Britain and The Barn Owl: Guardian of the Countryside, but in recent years the Tawny Owl has become the focus of his attention. He lives in Essex.

Reviews

This book is packed with useful information.
*Birdwatching*

The Tawny Owl is a worthy addition to the other owl monographs published by Poyser ... a monograph that will stand the test of time and grace anyone's bookshelves.
*International Owl Society Review*

Jeff Martin has a real passion not just for his subject, but for trying to make a difference for his subject, and I believe he achieves that with this book. So grab yourself a copy, as this is a must-purchase for anyone with a passing interest in owls and wildlife conservation.
*Ibis*