The Enigma of the Owl: An Illustrated Natural History

A stunning book photo -wise. Maybe the best bird photo collection I've ever seen, and I'm old enough to have seen almost everything (I had a photography business many years ago). I wonder whether the reviewer who gave 3 stars based upon the photographs not being well printed could have gotten a bad copy, somehow. The photos in mine are fabulous. No sign of anything less than that. Unfortunately the book is so remarkable that someone stole it before I could send it to a friend who loves owls and envies us the 2 great horned owls that are nearly always present on our property. As an aside, it would be wonderful to have more text, but there is quite a bit, and this is a photography book -- hard to have photos like these and as much text as you'd like. It is already quite a heavy book. Regarding the text, I am tempted to say how my experiences of great horned owls differ in some respects from the text about them. It would be fun to tell readers that these characters have maybe 30 -- maybe more -- different sounds they can make including prolonged barking (medium to large size dog, and we know it isn't a dog only because it is overhead), and also a perfect ear-splitting, almost terrifying, reproduction of the Queen Elizabeth's horn as it backs out of its berth in the New York City harbour. Right overhead, at 4 a.m., in pitch black darkness. (I didn't know I was so close to their tree). Just astounding.

An absolutely beautiful book. Many, many extraordinary photographs in full color, showing every subspecies (I guess) covered, from fledglings to full-grown adults, and in a wide variety of actions and attitudes. The organization is very helpful, too, done by geographical areas around the world. Accompanying texts are well written and informative, without being pedantic or too technical for the layperson. I've never seen a live owl where I live, but there must be some around somewhere in the area. Until I see one, this book is irresistible, one to be read and looked at, savored, slowly. My thanks to the authors and to Yale University Press.

Written very well . So informative. If u love owls, you will love this book . I love to photograph owls, and bought this book to better understand their mysterious life ! Love it !

Printed on excellent quality paper with many beautful photographs. Descibes each species range, Habitats. differences between species what they eat, and why they are difficult to observe in the wild. Very informative

I had ordered this book, and when I received it the book cover was ripped, there were scratches on the lettering, and overall not in very good condition. I sent that copy back, and received a second copy. The book cover was in better condition, still not the best condition. It was a very easy process to send the first book back, and receive the second one. This book itself is a beautiful book about owls. The pictures are stunning and the writing is great. Definitely a great book for owl lovers.

Quality of paper and photography used not outstanding. Lots of great information. Gave as a gift but expected a higher quality book overall.

Bought this for my 9 year old and she adores it. The pictures are breath takingly beautiful and the info pages on each one are detailed and interesting.

I highly recommend it. Excelent pictures and explanations.

This was purchased as a gift for a family member who is particularly fond of owls. We leafed through it and it is absolutely gorgeous. The family member has not received it yet but there is little doubt in our mind they will love it.

Quite readable book with deep insights into the natural history of a chosen few geographically well-represented owl species. A treat to go over photographs again and again!

Fantastic book but be aware and don't make the mistake I did, it is exactly the same book as this - A Parliament of Owls Hardcover

one of the best owl books. well done and organised info

Beautiful coffee table book with fantastic illustrations, must have if you're a fan of these enigmatic birds.