Walter Boles

This book is part of the National Photographic Index of Australian Wildlife, a mammoth undertaking and something that could only be completed over a long period. It was originally focused just on birds and later, in 1977, was expanded to take in mammals and in 1984 to include frogs and reptiles. I'm mildly interested in robins and flycatchers, which are the subject of this volume but it's really an information overload for someone like me. If I had to buy the book at full value (currently around $100) I could not justify it. However, I picked up a copy while browsing in the local market for $12, so at this price, one cannot complain about overly much detail.
Actually I really like the way the book is laid out with broad taxonomic classes being defined first (at the Family level, and the various arguments about taxonomy being fully aired). Then individual species within the various families are then discussed in considerable detail (7-10 pages per bird) with some beautiful illustrations of the birds in their natural surroundings ...usually showing nest and eggs and each section finishes with a one page summary of all the vital information about the bird, including a map showing distribution within Australia.
It is well written and interesting ...with historical information and various quotes from earlier ornithologists. Actually, I found it quite a charming book to read...even though it was over-detailed for any needs that I might have. At least I now know that there is a willy wag tail and a similar bird the rufous fantail (reddish brown) and the grey fantail (well grey , of course...but with all sorts of variations in colouration). The willy wag tail and the grey fantail are found over the whole of Australia ...though the rufous fantail is confined to the eastern coastal strip and across the north of Australia ..into the Kimberley. I also discovered that "rufous" is a colour that may be described as reddish brown ...as of "rust". And a lot of the birds in this book seem to have some species that are variously described as "rufous".
I've always liked the friendly willy wagtail who could be seen very commonly around the area of Sydney where I grew up but is much less observed these days. And it was interesting to learn that with the Aborigines it is almost universally regarded with distrust...because of the bird's habit of hanging around human habitations and chattering....supposedly spreading gossip and secrets.
In summary, a lovely reference book (and I am delighted that the Australian Museum has undertaken the work) but a bit too much detail for a person who is not specifically interested in these families of birds. I'm giving it 5 stars because that'w what I think it's worth ...though for my personal interest and purposes it probably rates a 3.… (mehr)