Return to Ichthyology Catalogue of IndiaNatural History of Birds, Fishes, Insects and Reptiles/Barr's Buffon. Reprint. First published in London in 1808. 1993, 6 v., 200 engravings, $198 (set).
"The edition of The Natural History of Birds, Fishes, Insects and Reptiles a set of the volumes, is an invaluable and unique book.
"Vol. I, II and III set about to describe the Birds. A special treatment and emphasis are meted out to the Birds of prey, poultry birds, water birds and singing birds. A vivid account of their Behavioural science is given, in addition to their Structure and Physiology. Distinguishing features of these Birds are well-illustrated with carefully drawn sketches.
"Vol. III also encompasses a description of Fish with particular emphasis on Whales, whereas Vol. IV goes on to cover the Cartilaginous and Bony fishes. Their structure, habits and physiology have been explained with examples and illustrations. This volume also includes an interesting account of turtles tortoises and tortoises among reptiles.
"Vol. V embraces the amphibians like Frogs, toads and Salamander and then treads over to Poisonous and Non-poisonous snakes, among reptiles. This volume also includes a detailed and interesting account of Insects. Particular emphasis has been paid to the life history of insects of Economic importance.
"The concluding volume of this set i.e. Vol. VI is a supplementary one, covering the description of rare and curious birds. This set, on the whole, provides an insight to the animal kingdom both Vertebrates as well as Invertebrates relevant to the students, and teachers of Zoology alike. This will also serve as a good aide--memoires to the researchers." (jacket)