In the classic monograph mould, this study of Tyto alba is the product of almost 40 years field work by its authors and complementary observations by other dedicated ornithologists in Britain, the USA and Europe.

The result is a detailed, balanced account based on intimate knowledge of the Barn Owl in varying habitats in Britain, comparing, as appropriate, this race's behaviour with that of sub-species in other areas of the world.

There are major chapters on breeding and general behaviour, feeding, distribution, etc, but voice is rightly given a full treatment.

The text is graced by Ian Willis's fine drawings and there are 31 photographs plus a colour frontispiece.