Bird-Life of the Borders: Records of Wild Sport and Natural History on Moorland and Sea

Description:

First edition. Illustrated by the author. Abel Chapman (1851-1929) was a meticulous observer of nature and a significant conservationist. This work is a classic example of bird observation and field‑work. Drawing on extensive personal notes gathered over forty years, Chapman explores the bird life along the Anglo‑Scottish border, offering seasonal insights and notes on migration patterns. A contemporary review in Nature (Vol 40, pp 147-148), praised the work’s balance between sporting narratives and trustworthy natural history, noting especially Chapman's original observations on bird migration and population turnover.

In the later second edition (1907) Chapman notes that the first edition had 'for several years been very scarce'.

Mullens and Swann p. 124.

Condition

8vo, orig. blue cloth, black-stamped decorative border to top and bottom of spine and front board, central gilt motif to front board, lightly rubbed, minor wear to spine ends, trace of a ring mark to rear board. Vg. Bookplate of Gilbert Edgar.