In his introduction, Richard ffrench offers a full treatment of the history of ornithology in Trinidad and Tobago, and then sets the scene by describing the environment of the islands, including physiography, climate, and vegetation. Thirteen photographs depic the variety of habitats found on the islands. The author also details the destribution of species, their breeding and migration, as well as local conservation and protection measures.

Individual species accounts, arranged by family, make up the core of this practical identification guide, covering habtitat and status, range and subspecies, field description and basic measurements, voice, food, nesting, and behavior. They are illustrated by 29 color plates, 9 color portraits, and 24 drawings - the work of two of the foremost artists in Neotropical ornithology. A comprehensive bibliography lists more than 300 titles from the ornithological literature on birds of the area.

This book will be welcomed with enthuasiasm by birders and other naturalists, professional ornithologists, and travelers to the Neotropics.