New Titles

                                                                                                      
1) Castro, Isabel and Rod Morris. Kiwi: A Natural History. 2011. New Holland. Paerpback: 95 pages. Price: NZD 29.99 (about $24.46 U.S.).

SUMMARY: New Zealand’s best-known bird and national icon is the subject of this new and highly accessible title from two experts in their field. There are five recognised species of kiwi, distributed unevenly in locations throughout New Zealand and ranging from the most widespread – the North Island brown kiwi – to the most endangered (the little spotted kiwi). Along with stunning photographs from award-winning wildlife photographer Rod Morris, native bird expert Dr Isabel Castro describes all key aspects of kiwi, from their evolution, prehistory and closest relatives (based on the latest research) to their feeding and breeding behaviour and current conservation issues, making this the perfect introduction for anyone with an interest in these fascinating birds.
RECOMMENDATION: A well illustrated introduction to these birds.

                                                                                   
2) Moon, Lynnette et al.. New Zealand Bird Calls. 2011. New Holland. Paperback: 47 pages with CD. Price: NZD 29.99 (about $24.46 U.S.).
SUMMARY: New Zealand is known for its birds, and the melodic quality of their song.Here, in one book and CD package is a selection of 60 of the most popular, important or interesting birds.
     In the book, each bird entry includes information about habitat, distribution, appearance and behaviour of the bird, along with a description of its calls. Each entry is illustrated with photographs from the renowned collection of Geoff Moon, making identification easy.
     The CD, contained in a plastic envelope on the book’s inside back cover, contains 60 tracks, one per bird, and each track includes up to three different calls, such as alarm, territory and courtship songs.
     New Zealand Bird Calls is an essential guide for any beginner or bird enthusiast to enjoy in the field or at home, and it will open up new ways to get to know birds by their calls.
RECOMMENDATION: The species are announced on the CD. Those birding in New Zealand will find this publication useful!