The Hidden lives of Owls by Leigh Calvez

Published by Sasquatch Books paper back 206 pages £14.99

This is a charming little book on North American owls with an author who is learning the game of ‘owling’ from some very experienced birders, scientists and ringers [called banders in the USA]. It is concentrated in the north west of the USA but a trip to Alaska to see the Snowy Owl and information about status around the US is found especially with the likes of Barred Owl now pushing into the declining Spotted owl territory. A worrying note is about the decline of Short eared Owl with a 70% decline. This is a figure which could easily be used in the UK if any one tried to work with this species! It is the facts and figures that make this book work and a good read.