Discover the captivating tale of New Zealand's endemic Hutton's shearwater in 'Seabirds Beyond The Mountain Crest.' This engaging book, authored by Richard Cuthbert and published by Otago University Press, delves into the extraordinary journey of this remarkable seabird that breeds at only two isolated locations high in the Kaikoura Mountains. A perfect blend of ornithology and heartfelt storytelling, this paperback volume (170 x 240 mm, 220 pages) chronologically recounts how amateur ornithologist Geoff Harrow uncovered the last nesting sites of the Hutton's shearwater in the 1960s. For over five decades, Harrow's dedication inspired conservation efforts, culminating in Cuthbert's three-year study alongside 200,000 Hutton's shearwaters. Through a thorough exploration of the birds' behaviors and interactions, Cuthbert reveals groundbreaking insights that challenge established understanding of their predation and conservation. This beautifully written account echoes beyond mere scientific study; it encompasses joy, heartache, and triumph in the quest for conservation. Rich with historical anecdotes, from the species' 19th-century discoveries to modern-day conservation efforts led by passionate individuals, 'Seabirds Beyond The Mountain Crest' is a delightful read for enthusiasts of natural history, wildlife conservation, and New Zealand's unique ecology. Join Richard Cuthbert on this enchanting journey and uncover the stories that breathe life into the Hutton’s shearwater's fight for survival. With this book, you won't just learn about a bird; you'll embark on an adventure through New Zealand's rich natural heritage and conservation history. Order your copy today and be part of the ongoing conversation about preserving our world's unique species.

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 170 x 240 mm
Pages: 220
Bind: paperback
Author: Richard Cuthbert Publisher: Otago University Press
Publication Date: 14-08-2017

Seabirds Beyond the Mountain Crest tells the fascinating story of New Zealand’s endemic Hutton’s shearwater, a species that breeds only at two remote locations, high in the Kaikoura Mountains. Amateur ornithologist Geoff Harrow is the person most closely associated with the story of Hutton’s shearwater, for it was Geoff who discovered the two remaining nesting sites in the 1960s. For five decades he visited the mountains whenever he could to observe and record the birds, and to encourage the Department of Conservation and its predecessors to take steps to conserve this endangered species. As a result, scientist Richard Cuthbert was to spend three years living with 200,000 Hutton’s shearwaters and their neighbours, studying their behaviour, observing their interactions, measuring and recording facts and figures to build a detailed picture of why and how these birds had survived. The discoveries over time of Richard and his co-workers turned received wisdom on its head and revealed a whole new predator story. Richard’s beautifully written, witty account – of the challenge and exasperation, the heartbreak and hardship, and the sheer joy of conservation fieldwork in a remote environment – is beautifully interwoven with other fascinating stories – of the ‘discovery’ of the species by nineteenth-century scientists and collectors, and Geoff Harrow’s discovery of the nesting grounds and subsequent long involvement with this species. Seabirds Beyond the Mountain Crest is a delightful and highly entertaining read.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.