This is a comprehensive, informative, instructive, attractive, and at times amusing, well-balanced introduction to, and account of, one of the world's most intriguing and potentially (to gardeners) annoying bird species. Anyone and everyone sharing their habitat with the Australian Brush-turkey should have this delightfully illustrated volume to hand. An appreciation of the bird's remarkable life history should alleviate much frustration caused by it.
-- Clifford B. Frith PhD, OAM, well known author of bird books
What fascinating birds. I remember first seeing them years ago while camping, and a bit too friendly, even in that non -urban area. Ann's book is readable and fun and should appeal to anyone with an interest in birds. Maybe she can change an opinion or two?
-- Judy Harrington, BirdLife Australia
After spending half her life studying the enigmatic Australian brush turkey, Dr Ann G¶th has finally hatched the egg and put pen to paper detailing her and other peoples' experience with these iconic birds that have become increasingly common in the urban areas of eastern Australia from Sydney northwards. Written in layman's language understandable to all, years of research explain the intimate habits of Brush Turkeys and why they have become so numerous in bushland and suburban gardens in and around our cities. Love them or hate them, this is a must-read for any
people interested in urban wildlife or simply getting brush turkeys out of their garden!
-- David Booth, Honorary Associate Professor in Zoology University of Queensland.
Ann G¶th has written a charming little book on the wonders of the Brush Turkey of Australia. It delves into the interesting details of its unique mound-building behaviour, which should bring delight to every reader. Those who live with this bird and currently consider it to be a nuisance may be enlightened enough to welcome it in their gardens. If not, Ann provides advice on how to discourage them.
-- Roger Seymour, Emeritus Professor, The University of Adelaide
This book contains so much more than I could have imagined, and it really reminded me that we share our city with an amazing animal. It is an entertaining and informative journey into the extraordinary biology of one of Australia's most unique birds and our relationship with them. While their approach to life means that brush-turkeys are much maligned by some, the tales of their exploits confirm their place as a unique Australian icon: hardworking, unassuming, and self-sufficient. You will look at these birds differently after learning about what they do, why they do it, and how they do it. And why we need to learn to live with them.
-- Professor Dieter Hochuli, The University of Sydney
