Edmund Selous 
The Bird Watcher in the Shetlands, with Some Notes on Seals—and Digressions 

In Edmund Selous‘ book, ‚The Bird Watcher in the Shetlands, with Some Notes on Seals—and Digressions, ‚ readers are taken on a detailed exploration of the diverse bird species found in the Shetland Islands, complemented by observations on seals and various engaging digressions. Selous‘ writing style is both informative and engaging, offering a blend of scientific knowledge with personal anecdotes, making the book accessible to both experts and casual readers. This work stands out as a valuable contribution to the genre of natural history writing, capturing the beauty of the Shetlands‘ wildlife in vivid detail. Selous‘ meticulous observations and passion for the subject shine through in every page, making it a captivating read for anyone interested in nature and wildlife. With his expertise in ornithology and natural history, Selous brings a wealth of knowledge to the book, enriching the reader’s understanding of the delicate ecosystem of the Shetland Islands. ‚The Bird Watcher in the Shetlands‘ is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper appreciation of the natural world.

Über den Autor

Edmund Selous (1857–1934) was an English naturalist and ornithologist known for his innovative approach to birdwatching and nature writing. Selous attended Sherborne School and later studied at the Zoological Society of London. However, he did not pursue a formal career in natural history, but rather dedicated himself to the observation and study of wildlife, particularly birds. Known for pioneering the practice of ‚bird-watching‘ as a methodical field activity—eschewing ornithological collecting in favor of observation—Selous encouraged the appreciation of birds in their natural habitats. His literary contributions include ‚The Bird Watcher in the Shetlands, with Some Notes on Seals—and Digressions‘ (1905). This influential work not only provided meticulous observations of avian life but also displayed his characteristic narrative style, which often included personal anecdotes and philosophical reflections on nature. Selous’s writings were ahead of their time in that they called for a more ethical approach to studying birds, promoting conservation over the traditional collection and taxidermy that was popular in his era. His love for nature and commitment to conservation helped set the stage for modern environmental protection ideologies and bird-watching practices.