Book Review

Ornithologists and falconers have always found the subject of predation a fascinating one. Despite the popularity of books depicting predators in action, little has been written on the mechanics of predation. Dr. Curio has done much to redress the balance. This book is one of a series of volumes dealing with zoophysiology and ecology. It is aimed at the serious tudent who wishes to delve deeper into the way predators behave. The main text is divided into five chapters: Internal Factors, Searching for Prey, Prey Recognition, Prey Selection, and Hunting Prey. Fishes, birds, and mammals are all dealt with under the same heading, which does not make for easy reading. A paragraph on the behavior of the Lanner Falcon may be followed by one on piranha fish. Dr. Curio relies on examples-and many are given-to make his point. Little space is devoted to discussion. It is interesting to observe that similar characteristics are found in a wide diversity of species. Surprise is probably the hunter's most effective weapon. Stealth, stamina, speed, and even deceit are all valuable attributes. Hunger is not the sole motivation for hunting although an important factor. The sick, the aged, and the aberrant are always at more risk than the healthy. Often their disabilities are not discernible to the human eye. Selection is what predation is about. Perhaps the book's greatest virtue is the 24-page list of references to articles and papers which would prove invaluable to anyone doing research work. The price of the book is excessive by any standards, but the wealth of information contained is undeniable.