This is a large reference book written by a preeminent Nebraska-based ornithologist who has a mind-boggling knowledge of his topics. The major ducks, swans and geese covered are cited in the tags. The book is illustrated by the author's drawings and color plates (so delightful to see some of them with their brood and juveniles). Each subject (goose, duck or swan) is written about within the following sections: Other vernacular names, Subspecies and ranges, Measurements and weights, Identification and field marks, Natural History (subtopics are Habitat and foods; Social behavior; Reproductive biology, Status, Relationships, and Suggested Readings). So the information related is quite thorough and extensive. I recently completed reading a wonderful book by Bob Tarte called Enslaved by Ducks, and used this reference guide to research the many pet ducks and geese that Mr. Tarte and his wife, Linda, have adopted and care for in Western rural Michigan. It came in very handy and brought the species closer to home for me. The author states in the chapter "Introduction to the Family Anatidae" that "the primary purpose of this book is to provide information on each of the species of the waterfowl family in a standardized format and easily accessible manner." He certainly succeeds, and I highly recommend this work.
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