Everything you ever wanted to know about the world's herons. This book on herons and bitterns is an authoritative summary of what is currently known about this diverse and fascinating worldwide family of wading birds. It is the result of extensive studies carried out over many years by its distinguished authors on both sides of the Atlantic. The plumages, feeding and breeding behaviour, and ecology of each of the recognised species is illustrated in full-colour with paintings meticulously researched by Robert Gilman and Peter Hayman. A distribution map, based on the latest available information, also shows the range of each species. Because of the widening interest in wading birds, considerable attention is paid to identification in the field. Four identification plates, especially prepared by Robert Gillmor, show all the plumages in each stage of every species and race, of white herons and egrets. This information - invaluable for ornithologists and birdwatchers - has never before been brought together in one volume. References to all the relevant literature on herons and bitterns is included for those who want to make a deeper study of these birds, and the authors have contributed their own considerable experiences gained in the field. The definitive handbook on herons, this book will not only provide the basis for future research and conservation but will also be a source of interest and enjoyment for both birdwatchers and ornithologists.