For sheer diversity of birds, Ecuador cannot be beaten. Nowhere else is it as easy to experience such a range of habitats, from the high Andes to the Amazon and Chocó rainforests and those jewels in the ocean, the Galápagos Islands. The avifauna is similarly dazzling – a huge range of species, including 41 endemics, call this country home, making Ecuador the ultimate Neotropical wildlife destination. This book showcases the avian wonders of Ecuador, highlighting more than 320 regularly occurring species that can be seen by most visitors to the country, including the Galápagos. Pocket-sized yet authoritative, this is the perfect companion for any wildlife-friendly visitor to Ecuador.

An authoritative pocket guide to the birds of Ecuador and Galapagos Although it is one of South America's smallest countries, Ecuador is home to nearly 1,600 species of birds. This is thanks to the huge variety of habitats created by the Andes. The country is a birder's paradise and an increasingly popular tourist destination. Areas such as Tandayapa, Mindo and La Selva are renowned for their birdwatching potential and boast such dramatic species as Toucan Barbet, Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Andean Condor, Giant Conebill and Ocellated Tapaculo, plus an array of brightly coloured manikins, cotingas, tanagers and hummingbirds. Offshore, the Galapagos Islands provide one of the world's greatest wildlife spectacles.Two hundred and fifty-two of Ecuador and the Galapagos' most interesting and spectacular birds are featured in this concise and easy-to-use guide. Illustrated with clear colour photography and brief but authoritative descriptions the Pocket Photo Guides highlight the species of birds and animals from each region that the traveller is most likely to see, as well as those that are genuinely endemic (only to be seen in that country or region) or special rarities. The genuine pocket size allow the books to be carried around on trips and excursions and will take up minimal rucksack and suitcase space.

The Galapagos Islands, a remote paradise, are as mysterious as ever. But the details of travel to the Galapagos are no longer a mystery. The essentials of a how-to travel adventure to the Land of Darwin are now available in the comprehensive "Traveler's Guide to the Galapagos Islands." From which airlines to choose and why, to a detailed analysis of the Tour Operator network, Barry Boyce describes the rules and tells the reader how to play the adventure travel game. Entire chapters are devoted to topics such as choosing a tour (with descriptions, analyses, and price structures of all the yachts and cruise ships), what to pack and what not to pack, photographic opportunities and equipment on land and underwater, Galapagos history, wildlife and a detailed tour of the islands. First edition reviews: "Boyce's excitement and knowledge mix to produce a comprehensive and responsible guide to touring the Galapagos." -- Brad Hooper, Booklist. "Just on the market and badly needed... Boyce's effort is likely to be a definitive work." -- Zeke Wigglesworth, San Jose Mercury News. To order, call or write Hunter Publishing - 130 Campus Drive, Edison, NJ 08818. Phone 800-255-0343 or 732-225-1900; fax 732-417-1744; www.hunterpublishing.com. E-mail comments@hunterpublishing.com.

See what's new in the Second Edition: Number of species included is increased from 6300 to over 8700, about 85% of the world's birds Better data for many of the species included in the first edition- an exhaustive compilation of new data publis

The Galápagos archipelago is one of the most beautiful, wild, and untouched places on earth. Travel back in time with Moon Galápagos Islands. Inside you'll find: Strategic tour information with advice on how to visit sustainably, which boats to take, how long to stay, and where to stop along the way Detailed maps and directions for exploring on your own The top activities and unique experiences: Snorkel past playful sea lions and gentle sea turtles, or dive with hammerheads and whale sharks. Spot blue-footed boobies, albatross, and pelicans just as Darwin did when formulating the Theory of Evolution. Walk along sandy beaches where marine iguanas sun themselves on the rocks, or hike through forests of cacti and along otherworldly lava trails with breathtaking ocean views Honest advice from local expert and bioengineer Lisa Cho In-depth coverage of Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Isabela, Floreana, and the remote uninhabited islands of Santiago, Fernandina, Española, and Genovesa, as well as the gateway cities of Quito and Guayaquil Background information on the history, landscape, and diverse wildlife of the archipelago, including how and where to see each animal while protecting their habitats Full-color photos and detailed maps throughout Essential insight for travelers on eco-tourism, health and safety, transportation, and accommodations With Moon Galápagos Islands' practical tips and an expert's view on the best things to do and see, you can have the trip of a lifetime. Expanding your trip? Check out Moon Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands or Moon Colombia.

Much of Charles Darwin's groundbreaking work as an evolutionary biologist stemmed from his study of birds. It is universally acknowledged that Darwin's observation of bird groups and species like the Galapagos finches, mockingbirds, and rock doves was critical to the development of his theories on natural selection, evolution, and sexual selection. The significant number of diverse birds that Darwin covered in his published works represents a most substantial ornithological contribution. His major books alone contain reference to and consideration of almost 500 bird species, as well as interesting and pertinent discussion of over 100 ornithological topics. "Charles Darwin's Birds" is a comprehensive treatment of Darwin's work as an ornithologist. Clifford Frith discusses every ornithological topic and bird species that Darwin researched, providing a complete historical survey of his published writing on birds. Through this, we learn how Darwin became an increasingly skilled and eventually exceptional ornithologist, and how his relationships grew with contemporary scientists like John Gould. It examines how Darwin was influenced by birds, and how the major themes of his research developed through his study of them. The book also features 4 appendices, which contain brief accounts of every bird species Darwin wrote about, basic ornithological information about each of the species, and a listing of where the species appears in Darwin's work.