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First edition.

Owls (order Strigiformes ) are a distinctive group of birds adapted for nocturnal predation by highly developed eyes and ears, soft plumage that allows virtually silent flight, and powerful taloned feet. (While owls do also have proportionately large brains, their reputation for wisdom is only a myth.) Johnsgard's study of the owls of the United States and Canada is divided into two parts: a general review of owl systematics, ecology, morphology, physiology, behavior, reproduction, and folklore; and detailed natural histories of the 19 species. Mainly a synthesis of the literature (there is a 476-item bibliography), this book will serve both professional and serious amateur ornithologists.