| Authors | Dan Chamberlain, Aleksi Lehikoinen, Kathy Martin |
| Language | English |
| ISBN | 9781108940429 |
| Publisher | Cambridge University Press |
| Pages | 450 |
| Size | 229 x 153 x 22 mm |
| Format | Paperback |
| Images | black&white images |
| Year published | 2023 |
High mountain habitats are globally important for biodiversity. At least 12% of birds worldwide breed at or above the treeline, many of which are endemic species or species of conservation concern. However, due to the challenges of studying mountain birds in difficult-to-access habitats, little is known about their status and trends.
This book provides the first global review of the ecology, evolution, life history and conservation of high mountain birds, including comprehensive coverage of their key habitats across global mountain regions, assessments of diversity patterns along elevation gradients, and adaptations for life in the alpine zone. The main threats to mountain bird populations are also identified, including climate change, human land use and recreational activities. Written for ecologists and naturalists, this book identifies key knowledge gaps and clearly establishes the research priorities needed to increase our understanding of the ecology of mountain birds and to aid in their conservation.
- The first global reference work with wide geographical coverage on high mountain bird ecology and conservation
- Includes summaries of all birds known to use alpine habitats and their key traits, forming an essential basis for classifying and studying high mountain birds
- Establishes clear priorities to reduce knowledge gaps and to guide research and conservation strategies for high mountain birds (and biodiversity in general) over the coming decades
About the Authors
Dan Chamberlain is Professor of Ecology at the University of Turin. His research is centred on the impacts of environmental change on biodiversity, including climate change, urbanization and agricultural intensification, with a particular focus on alpine birds.
Aleksi Lehikoinen is the Senior curator and Coordinator of the Finnish bird monitoring schemes at the Finnish Museum of Natural History, University of Helsinki. His research focusses on birds as indicators of environmental change, birds in changing climates, protected areas and management, and bird migration.
Kathy Martin is Professor of Wildlife Ecology at the University of British Columbia. She investigates how alpine birds cope with their extreme and increasingly unreliable environmental conditions. Kathy studies the adaptations, ecology, life history and conservation of alpine songbirds and grouse in the Americas.
