Mrs Moreau's Warbler: How Birds Got Their Names

Birds have a lot of decidedly strange names. From the many-colored rush tyrant to the satanic nightjar, from the exclamatory paradise whydah to the hottentot buttonquail, we've definitely done our fair share of odd naming. In this fascinating book, author Stephen Moss digs into the history and origins of these names and tries to uncover the odd tales and anecdotes that led scientists to bestow such strange names on these birds. Arctic expeditions, romantic gestures, and even fights with other ornithologists have all contributed to the weirdness. Learn for yourself the power and the history of a name with this entertaining and informative book.