Collins New Naturalist Series – 71 – British Warblers – First Edition

Author: Eric Simms
Publisher: William Collins
Price: £695
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: 432

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 faded and creased dustwrapper, priced £20.00 net. The dustwrapper designed by Robert Gillmor 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:

New Naturalist: Warblers by Eric Simms is a comprehensive exploration of British warblers, an essential part of the New Naturalist series published by Collins in 1985. Simms, an esteemed ornithologist and nature writer, brings both depth of knowledge and a compelling narrative to this volume, making it a standout reference for anyone interested in British avian life.

In this meticulously detailed book, Simms covers the twenty-four species of British warblers with particular focus on their varied habitats, distinctive songs, migratory patterns, feeding habits, and breeding behaviours. Simms’s expertise shines in his in-depth analysis of each species, capturing subtle distinctions between them, from the Willow Warbler’s melodious song to the Reed Warbler’s preference for reed beds. The author combines first-hand observations with historical context, exploring how warbler populations and distribution have evolved over time in response to changes in British landscapes and climate.

Simms delves into the ecological significance of warblers within Britain’s diverse ecosystems, highlighting their roles in insect control and as indicators of environmental health. Richly illustrated with detailed photographs, colour plates, and line drawings, the book’s visual elements enhance readers’ understanding, providing clear examples of species’ characteristics, nesting sites, and flight patterns.

Eric Simms’s Warblers is both scientifically rigorous and highly readable, a testament to his skill in making complex ornithological studies accessible to general readers and experts alike. This volume remains an invaluable resource for naturalists, ornithologists, and conservationists, capturing the beauty and importance of warblers in the British countryside with both precision and passion.

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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