Basics: 2002, 3rd edition, hardcover, 640 pages, color plates of 56 species, range maps

This third edition is an attractive and informative book on all the parrots and related species of Australia. Although this book addresses primarily the wild bird and its natural settings, 1-2 pages are provided as “aviary notes” on many of the species.

This book is a veritable mountain of information, reflected in its large size and heavy weight. Each of the birds is documented with its own lengthy chapter and one full color plate. These chapters range from 6-18 pages long, except for the one-page coverage of the Norfolk Island Kaka.

Descriptions are thorough for the birds. The authors made a special note in the introduction that this book would not be geared towards identification except with similar species known to be difficult. A good job is done on discussing the various subspecies, with Little Corella and the Crimson Rosella being good examples. Extended text gives nearly a full page or more to each of the feeding and breeding habits of the birds.

The bulk of the text, which is extensive, covers habitat, status, and habits. Each of these is given 1-2 pages. Additional topics include movements, flight, calls, and eggs. Many of the birds also receive 1-2 pages dedicated to aviary topics. This information is not meant to be used as a guide on how to care for or manage the bird at home, but to document the general characteristics in captivity. Four different aviary topics are discussed, which are housing & general care, feeding, breeding, and hybrids-mutations.

One large color plate is given for each species. Both the male and female are displayed when there are differences between the two. These plates are quality artwork and include a nicely painted background as well. Nearly every bird is shown in a perched position. It would have been nice to see illustrations of the birds in flight to see the wing and tail patterns.

The map for each bird shows the range across Australia as well as the East Indies to the north. These maps do not show detail, but do offer a good generalization of the bird's range.

An addition to the back of this book includes 12 pages geared towards captivity. The information provided mimics what is offered in the individual chapter for each bird, but on a more general level for all parrots. Within this section are three nice color plates showing the various plumage mutations that have become recognized for some of the captive species.

One last note is to draw attention to a black-and-white photo of the now presumed extinct Paradise Parrot, which is probably the last (only?) photo of a live specimen.

This is a remarkably thorough book and will most certainly be appreciated by both birders and by aviary enthusiasts.

I’ve listed several related books below…
1) Australian Parrots in Colour by Robinson
2) Parrots of Australia by Lindsey
3) Parrots of Australasia by Barrett
4) Parrots: A Guide to Parrots of the World by Juniper/Parr
5) Birds of Australia by Simpson/Day
6) Complete Book of Australian Birds by Reader’s Digest
7) Field Guide to Australian Birds by Morcombe
8) The Field Guide to the Birds of Australia, 7th ed. by Pizzey
9) Birds of Australia by Macdonald
10) Birds of Australia by Flegg ( )