![]() ![]() Two other speciose families are restricted to the Australasian region but are of global interest, the Ptilonorhynchidae (bowerbirds) and Paradisaeidae (birds of paradise). ![]() At the other end of the spectrum from these geographically restricted families is the worldwide Corvidae (ravens and crows, magpies, jays), with 123 species, followed closely by the Sturnidae (starlings) with 112 species. In two instances, this taxonomic variety entails the erection of monospecific families in recognition of the distinctiveness of a species or the uncertainty of its position (New Zealand Stitchbird, Notiomystis cincta, Notiomystidae Bornean Bristlehead, Pityriasis gymnocephala, Pityriasidae). The families in Volume 14 are a rather varied lot, reflecting the considerable modification that this section of the traditional linear sequence has undergone in recent years. Given some of the taxa included in this volume, this increased number of images is very welcome. One of the highlights of this series has been the excellent photographic coverage of the included taxa, with many shots showing aspects of behavior rather than being solely (admittedly often spectacular) portraits. There are nine fewer plates but 120 more photographs. Separate editors check the text, images, maps, and references, and are quick to interact with the author if there is any uncertainty or inconsistency.Ī quick comparison with the previous volume, which covered penduline-tits through shrikes, shows that while the current volume includes about the same number of families, its 486 species are roughly 90 fewer, and consequently the number of distributional maps is reduced proportionately. Having written several sections of earlier volumes, I can attest to the attentiveness of the production team. This regularity reflects well on the team of editors and assistants who ensure that the series maintains a uniformly high quality, each volume meeting the high standards and expectations set by previous volumes. ![]() With the arrival of the 14th volume of Handbook of Birds of the World, what new can be said in general terms that has not already been expressed by reviewers of previous volumes since the first appeared in 1992? This question is all the more relevant given the volumes' consistent format and annual appearance almost like clockwork. ![]()
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