There have been many fine books on gulls published in recent years, and one might be forgiven for asking, "Why another?" A close examination of the text and the incredible array of stunning photographs will answer that question for you. For those of us with masochistic tendencies who delight in poring through flocks of gulls looking for rarities and teasing apart details of aging, there can never be too many works anyway! Perhaps these distinguished authors will now turn their attention to a companion volume on terns, the neglected waifs of the Laridae.
There are those for whom gulls are an anathema to be ignored at all costs, and to these birders the authors pose the following question, "Is your hobby really birding, or is it ignoring birds?" The message is clear, don't be afraid of gulls, get out there and enjoy them, and don't be chastened by your ID failures. As in all things practice makes perfect and once you develop proficiency you will rejoice in these sublime members of your avifauna.
The question of larid taxonomy seems to have been in a state of flux for as long as I can remember, and long before that. The treatment in this book follows the International Ornithological Committee for the most part, but deviates when it comes to Thayers Gull (how many times has this bird been considered a full species or a sub species of Iceland Gull?), and Short-billed Gull (aka Mew Gull). Actually, in the case of Short-billed Gull the most recent version of the IOC List now assigns full species status to Short-billed Gull, so only Thayer's Gull remains controversial. Don't bet the farm on that species not being re-evaluated too!
Many tips are given on how to identify gulls, with comparisons between similar species, and "fail-safe" identification features. In terms of aging the authors use the concept of 'cycle' rather than 'first winter' or 'second winter' and so on. Gulls do not suddenly change from first winter plumage to second winter plumage so cycle is a more appropriate way of looking at immature gulls.
The authors embark on a useful discussion of a holistic approach versus an analytical approach; of course, one does not deny the other and operated in tandem is the best course.
The value of digital cameras is manifest in this book, with a huge number of photographers combining to provide a visual feast.
If you glance at your bookshelf and find a gap where the book on gulls should be, this is the volume to fill the space. It is a fine work indeed and merits your close attention. It will help you to become that dedicated larophile you always wanted to be!
Gulls of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East, An Identification Guide - Princeton University Press
Peter Adriaens, Mars Muusse, Philippe J. Dubois, and Frédéric Jiguet
Softcover - US$29.95 - ISBN 9780691222837
320 pages - 1,200 photos and illustrations - 6.75 x 9.25 inches (16.875 x 23.125 cm)
Publication date: 5 April, 2022
