Alan Harris – illustratör

Based on phylogenetic research, this complete study of the genus Sylvia describes two new species and establishes identification criteria for all members of the family.A lengthy introduction explains the background to the research and outlines the main features of the genus. The 25 species are then treated in detail, including the African parisomas, which are here included in the Sylva group.The species accounts include sections on every aspect of identification, with colour illustrations showing age, sex and racial differences, distribution maps, sonograms, moult and wing diagrams and tables.

An essential field-guide companion covering the sternest challenges in bird identification.This guide book by tackles difficult identification issues by looking at tricky species pairs or groups of birds, and comparing and contrasting their respective features.Designed as a field companion for British and European birding, it supplements the standard field guides and provides much additional information. As well as detailed texts, the book includes extensive illustrations by Alan Harris of all relevant ages and plumages of the species concerned. This is an essential supplement to regular field guides for anyone looking to improve their field identification skills, focusing on the confusion species that can otherwise challenge any birdwatcher.