About the Book Simultaneously published: Clayton South, VIC, Australia: CSIRO Publishing. Book Synopsis Joseph M. Forshaw, one of the worlds leading authorities on parrots, calls attention to the threats they face: They are one of the most endangered groups of birds, with a growing number of species nearing extinction. The main threats arise from habitat loss through deforestation and agricultural development and from the taking of birds for the international live-bird trade. Vanished and Vanishing Parrots brings together information on species that have become extinct in historical times with information on species that are in danger of becoming extinct to increase public awareness of the plight of these magnificent birds. Vivid color plates by the wildlife artist Frank Knight draw attention to the spectacular species that we have lost or that could be lost. Forshaws work gives us fascinating insight into these endangered and extinct parrots. Review Quotes Forshaw and Knight have provided a thorough, well-organized, and aesthetic work that not only inspires us to look back at what we have lost but also forward to prevent further extinctions; we can learn from past mistakes. -- The Quarterly Review of Biology In sum, this is a valuable book with a great many strengths. Forshaw is a master of collecting pertinent information from a broad array of sources; the result is a rich collection of species accounts that surpasses in detail those in any of his preceding books. The artwork by Knight complements these accounts and brings them to vibrant life. -- The Condor This encyclopedic work has beautiful color plates, references, and index. Bird lovers and ornithology researchers will find this title a valuable reference. -- American Reference Books Annual About the Author Joseph M. Forshaw has retired as Head of Wildlife Section, Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service. He is a Research Associate in the Department of Ornithology at the Australian Museum in Sydney and Corresponding Fellow of the American Ornithologists Union. He is the author of many books, including Field Guide to Parrots of the World and Parrots of the World: An Identification Guide .