Author: Kuroda, Nagamichi
Title: A Contribution to the Knowledge of the Avifauna of the Riu Kiu Islands and the vicinity
Description: Tokyo, published by the author, 1925. First edition Pp. vi, 293 + 8 full page color plates (from painting by Juzo Kobayashi), 1 large folding map, 1 table. Later red morocco with five gilt-decorated raised bands with gilt-lettering in two panels and blind-stamped birds in four other panels, over rose-colored silt cloth, top page edge gilt, folio (15.25 x 10.75 inches). This monograph is based primarily on 14 months of fieldwork from 1921-1922 in the Riu Kiu islands (also known as the Loo Cho islands) that stretch between the Japanese island chain and Formosa (now Taiwan). Zoogeographically, the islands span the Palaearctic region (Japan) and the Oriental region (Taiwan); Kuroda thought this was one of the most interesting ornithological regions of the world from a zoogeographic point of view. The monograph describes 281 species and subspecies based on 1621 skins collected in 1921-22 and reviews all other specimens in museums in around the world. A very through monograph of great regional import in an exceedingly attractive binding. Less than 500 copies were printed. No ownership marks, a beautiful copy in fine condition..

Keywords: Ornithology birds avifauna


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