Guide to the Gallery of Birds in the British Museum

Abstract

THIS handsome volume is a new departure in the matter of “guides,” so far as the natural history branch of the museum is concerned, being larger in size, more fully illustrated, different in style, and (perhaps most important of all) higher in price than those to any of the other sections. The text is, in fact, a concise synopsis of the leading groups of birds, with special reference to the specimens exhibited in the galleries. The plan of the synopsis necessarily follows the system adopted in the museum, and it would therefore be quite out of place to criticise that system on the present occasion. A similar remark applies to the fact of the illustrations (which are admirable of their kind) being taken from the stuffed specimens in the collection instead of from living birds-the guide is to illustrate the collection, and therefore it is quite right and proper that the figures of the birds should be taken from those shown in the gallery. In addition to the general synopsis, there is a guide to the series of British nesting birds. That the general plan and execution are in the main excellent cannot be denied; whether it will suit the taste—and the purses—of the public remains, however, to be seen. Guide to the Gallery of Birds in the British Museum. Pp. iv + 228; illustrated. (London: Printed by Order of the Trustees, 1905.) Price 2s. 6d.