Collins New Naturalist Series – 70 – The Natural History Of Orkney – First Edition

Author: R. J. Berry
Publisher: William Collins
Price: £1250
Publication Date: 1985
Edition: 1st edition, 1st issue
Size: Octavo
Binding: Original green cloth gilt. Dustwrapper
Condition: Near fine in near fine dustwrapper
Number of Pages: 304

Condition:

Binding nice and tight. Pages nice and clean. Very slight foxing and dustiness to the text block. A near fine, tight, clean copy in near fine, slightly creased dustwrapper which has the tiniest amount of fading to the spine and slight foxing to the front inside flap. It is priced £20.00 net. The dustwrapper designed by Clifford and Rosemary Ellis is protected by its original ‘duraseal’ cover. Please contact us for more photographs if you require them. We usually have first editions of all the Collins New Naturalist Series in stock.

Description:

R.J. Berry’s The Natural History of Orkney is a landmark volume in the Collins New Naturalist series, providing an in-depth exploration of the ecology, flora, fauna, and geological landscape of the Orkney Islands. Published in 1985, this book represents one of the most comprehensive studies of this unique archipelago in northern Scotland. R.J. Berry, a distinguished geneticist and natural historian, combines scientific rigour with a deep appreciation for Orkney’s complex ecosystems, crafting a work that appeals to both specialists and lay readers alike.

Content Overview

In The Natural History of Orkney, Berry examines the islands’ diverse natural elements, from their geological formation to their resident wildlife and the intricate web of ecological relationships that sustain the unique Orkney environment. The book is structured to cover key aspects of Orkney’s natural history, including:

1. Geology and Landscape: Berry delves into the geological origins of Orkney, exploring the influence of ancient rock formations, glacial periods, and the island’s unique coastal features. He describes how Orkney’s landscape, with its cliffs, beaches, and sea stacks, provides distinct habitats for various species.
2. Climate and Environmental Conditions: The Orkney Islands are subject to harsh weather conditions, including strong winds and fluctuating temperatures. Berry investigates how these environmental factors shape the island’s ecosystems and impact species adaptation.
3. Flora and Fauna: A significant portion of the book focuses on the plant and animal life of Orkney, including detailed accounts of seabirds, marine mammals, and endemic plant species. Berry pays particular attention to Orkney’s seabird colonies, which are among the largest in Europe, as well as the presence of unique mosses, lichens, and flowering plants adapted to the rugged conditions.
4. Human Influence and Conservation: Berry also discusses the human impact on Orkney’s natural environment, tracing changes from Neolithic settlements to modern-day conservation efforts. He explores how agricultural practices, fishing, and tourism have altered the islands’ habitats and species diversity, underscoring the importance of preserving Orkney’s ecological heritage.

Style and Approach

Berry’s writing combines scientific analysis with an accessible narrative style, making complex ecological processes understandable for readers without a background in natural sciences. The book is filled with photographs, maps, and illustrations that enrich the text, giving readers a visual appreciation of Orkney’s landscape and biodiversity.

Significance and Legacy

The Natural History of Orkney is celebrated for its thorough treatment of one of Britain’s most ecologically significant regions. By documenting Orkney’s natural history in such detail, Berry contributes valuable insights into the challenges and responsibilities of conservation on isolated islands. His work remains a reference point for naturalists, ecologists, and conservationists interested in the Orkney Islands and has helped to raise awareness about the importance of protecting fragile island ecosystems.

The Collins New Naturalist Series: A Short History

The Collins New Naturalist series is one of the longest-running and most celebrated series on natural history ever published, providing an extensive exploration of British wildlife, habitats, and ecology since its inception in 1945. Published by William Collins, the series was launched to offer a comprehensive, scientifically rigorous, yet accessible account of the natural history of the British Isles, appealing to both specialists and general nature enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its iconic cover designs, informative content, and ground-breaking illustrations, the New Naturalist series has been instrumental in fostering an appreciation for nature across generations.

Origins and Development

The series was the brainchild of Sir William Collins, who recognised a post-war desire for accessible and reliable information on the natural world. The initial aim was to create high-quality books that combined scientific accuracy with readability, crafted to be as engaging as they were informative. The first book, Butterflies by E.B. Ford, was published in 1945 and set a standard for the books that followed.

Topics and Structure

Each volume in the series is dedicated to a particular aspect of British natural history, with subjects ranging from specific groups of species, like Moths, Birds, and Warblers, to broader ecosystems and habitats, such as Woodlands, Rivers and Streams, and Mountain Flowers. Some volumes address particular ecological phenomena or geographical regions, giving readers an in-depth look at complex natural processes and interactions. Authors are typically experts in their fields, providing scientifically accurate yet highly accessible content. The volumes are filled with high-quality illustrations, photographs, and detailed diagrams, enhancing the textual information and bringing the subjects to life.

Illustrations and Cover Art

One of the most recognisable aspects of the New Naturalist series is its distinctive cover art, often created by celebrated wildlife artists. The covers feature striking depictions of British flora, fauna, and landscapes, with the illustrations becoming iconic in their own right. These visually appealing designs are as much a part of the series’ appeal as the content itself, establishing a cohesive and recognisable identity that is highly regarded by collectors.

Influence and Legacy

The Collins New Naturalist series has become a cornerstone of British natural history literature, influencing both academic study and public awareness of the natural world. For more than 75 years, the series has inspired naturalists, conservationists, and ordinary readers, encouraging a deeper understanding of British ecology and the environmental challenges facing the region. The series’ continued publication reflects its ongoing relevance, with new volumes addressing contemporary concerns such as climate change, habitat loss, and biodiversity conservation.

Each book in the series combines a passion for nature with academic insight, presenting complex ecological ideas in a way that is accessible and engaging. Its success has established Collins New Naturalist as a respected name in natural history, and the books remain highly sought after by collectors, scholars, and anyone with an interest in British wildlife and the natural world.

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