The Zebra Finch A Synthesis of Field and Laboratory Studies [Hardcover]

This book synthesizes current scientific knowledge of the Australian Zebra Finch, a bird popular with scientists and teachers in physiology, behavioral development, and evolutionary ecology, as well as professional and amateur ornithologists throughout the world. It builds a complete picture of the biology of this colorful species, integrating thirty years of findings from the laboratory with those from the wild, with emphasis on behavior and ecology. This new understanding of the Zebra Finch's adaptation and life history will further enhance its value to researchers and students in various fields.

1. Systematics and phylogeny
2. Distribution and habitat
3. Morphology, domestication, and moult
4. Feeding ecology
5. Drinking, water relations, and temperature regulation
6. Coloniality and breeding ecology
7. Breeding periodicity
8. Populations
9. Social and reproductive behaviour
10. Vocalizations
11. Song
12. Sexual selection and mate choice
13. Life history and adaptations
Appendices
References
Index

Richard Zann brings together an impressive amount of information from the wild (in arid Australia) and the lab. This book has it all: zebra finches in Aboriginal creation stories, systematics, natural distribution, food eaten, behavior and physiology of drinking, abundance, social displays, breeding, parenting. . . . I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in zebra finches. --The Quarterly Review of Biology

A comprehensive research report packed with new information, skillfully blended with a synthesis of the more important literature. --Choice

A major summary and synthesis of current knowledge of this bird in field and laboratory. . .Recommended --Wildlife Activist

A first-class job of summarizing information on Zebra Finches, in the lab and in the field. These birds are remarkable in many ways, not least because they can live in confinemenl3,