Neville W. Cayley's What Bird Is That?

Gardening & Environment Education & Reference Science & Nature

Neville W. Cayley's What Bird Is That? is the classic Australian birdwatcher's bible, first issued in 1931 and reprinted here in the collectible 1984 hardcover. Across 802 pages, Cayley's meticulous paintings and concise field notes help beginners and seasoned twitchers alike put a name to every feathered visitor from the Kimberley to Tasmania.

This vintage Angus & Robertson edition stays true to the original's oversized format, so the colour plates stay crisp and lifelike—perfect for quick comparisons on bush walks or backyard feeders. The durable binding lies flat without cracking, while the generous margins invite jotting down your own sightings.

The copy is in good, gently-used shape: light foxing touches only the front endpaper, a couple of pages show minor thumb-smudges, and there are no tears, writing, or dog-ears. It comes from a smoke-free home and feels tight enough to accompany you on countless field trips or display proudly on a nature-lover's shelf.

Whether you're after a reliable bird reference, a nostalgic piece of Australian publishing history, or a gift for a budding ornithologist, Cayley's illustrated guide remains unmatched in scope and charm.