The Pheasants of the World

Among the most important of all bird groups, pheasants account for the most abundant domesticated species (the domestic fowl), the most extensively hunted upland game bird (the common pheasant), and some of the most spectacularly beautiful of all large birds (the giant argus). This lavishly illustrated volume gives up-to-date information on the distribution, status, and biology of all 49 species, with special attention paid to those that are vulnerable, rare, or threatened. Including range maps and identification keys, The Pheasants of the World is a comprehensive reference not only for ornithologists and conservationists seeking to ensure the survival of the group, but also for aviculturists and others who want to better understand the nature of these splendid birds.“The exquisite watercolors of Major Henry Jones, housed since 1921 in the Zoological Society of London, provided the impetus for the publication of this scholarly volume on pheasant biology. Renowned ornithologist Johnsgard updates the literature on pheasants by emphasizing their ecology and breeding biology. . . . Numerous maps, line drawings, and 53 color plates which celebrate the brilliance and subtlety of the pheasant plumage complete this handsome volume. For students and professionals in ornithology and related disciplines.”—Library JournalPaul A. Johnsgard is Foundation Professor in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. He is the author of Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons of North America: Biology and Natural History (Smithsonian, 2001) and North American Owls: Biology and Natural History, Second Edition (Smithsonian, 2002).Illustrated reference gives updated information on the distribution, status, and biology of all 49 species of pheasants, with maps and identification keys.