History of Australian birding in the 20th century, based on the journal of the former Royal Australasian Ornithologists' Union - 'The Emu'. Explores ornithological research in various museums, universities, government agencies and community groups, and details many of the scientific expeditions and bird-related adventures over the decades. Includes colour and black-and-white photos, appendices, notes, bibliography and index. Author has previously written 'Defending the Little Desert' and co-edited 'Ecology and Empire'.