Bird Watching

"Bird Watching" by Edmund Selous is a nature observation book written in the early 20th century. It focuses on the detailed observations of various bird species and their behaviors, primarily narrated from the author's perspective. This book will appeal to readers interested in ornithology, nature writing, or anyone who enjoys immersing themselves in the world of wildlife. The opening of "Bird Watching" sets the stage for the author's personal experiences with birdwatching, emphasizing a more intimate and casual exploration rather than formal scientific studies. Selous introduces readers to the great plover, or stone-curlew, describing its physical appearance and habits with great detail. He paints vivid scenes of the bird sitting, preening, and engaging in lively acts, reflecting on the social dynamics among the birds and their behaviors during different times of the day. Through his observations, the author seeks to convey both factual details and the emotions stirred by witnessing these creatures in their natural habitat, inviting readers to join him in discovering the joys of birdwatching. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Edmund Selous was a British ornithologist and writer. He was the younger brother of big-game hunter Frederick Selous. Born in London, the son of a wealthy stockbroker, Selous was educated privately and matriculated at Pembroke College, Cambridge in September 1877. He left without a degree and was admitted to the Middle Temple just over a year later and was called to the bar in 1881. He practised as a barrister only briefly before retiring to pursue the study of natural history and literature.