By: Vince, Martin
ISBN: 0888393938/9780888393937
Binding: Trade Paper
Size: 8.5" X 5.5"
Pages: 280
Photos: 139
Illustrations: 0
Publication Date: 1996

PR Highlights: An informative book about Softbills.
PHOTO Highlights: 24 pages of colorful photos.

Description: The author offers an exhaustive volume about the biology and ecology of softbills - small, flying birds that do not live on seeds, but on soft foods such as fruits, insects and meats. Author Martin Vince offers an exhaustive volume about the biology and ecology of softbills - small, flying birds that do not live on seeds, but on soft foods such as fruits, insects and meats. A practical and uniquely detailed book, it is based on the author's experience during twenty years of keeping and breeding a large range of softbills. The first section of text covers the basics from purchasing and housing to the particulars such as handling, banding and nutrition. The second section of the book focuses on the different species, covering topics such as size, sexing, incubation and breeding. Because all of the birds described have been kept by the author, the information is especially relevant and helpful. This thoroughly modern, easy-to-use guide is sure to become the definitive source for softbill keepers.

Martin Vince is the Assistant Curator of Birds at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, South Carolina.

A new addition has been added to our Library. The book entitled Softbills - Care, Breeding and Conservation, by Martin Vance. If you attended our recent program on softbills, then you understand why I was really excited when we received this book. The beautiful photography on the cover is just a sample of what's inside. Toucans, Touracos, Starlings, Mynahs and Hornbills, just to name a few! The author begins with a chapter on acclimating and establishing the birds, both from the wild and captive-bred birds. He covers other topics such as questions to ask before making a purchase and things to look for during the initial inspection of the bird. This book includes information on proper housing, plants, diets, nutrition and feeding techniques. There are chapters on breeding, record keeping and a section on ailments. One section I especially like is the diet index. About half way through the book you will encounter some very beautiful full color photos. These are followed by the species accounts that have sub sections describing size, compatibility, diet, management and breeding specific to each species.
I'm sure you'll enjoy this, check it out, many of you will want a copy of your own!

- Mike Thomasson President, San Diego Bird Breeders