BOOK NOTICES
381
Mammals", illustrated, with slides, was given by Mr D. Chapman.
The mammal traps were well used by Group members during
the year but it was felt that they should be used by other club
members also. If anyone is interested in carrying out live mammal
trapping in their area or garden for the purpose of obtaining
records, the Group Secretary would be pleased to hear from them.
D. Scott, Secretary.
Book Notices
Reproduction in British Deer. By Raymond E. Chaplin. The London
Borough of Newham, Passmore Edwards Museum, 1966. 16 pages.
5/-.
It is interesting to see a book published from the headquarters of
the Essex Field Club and this one especially so in view of the work on
deer being carried out by various members of the Club. The book is
intended to give background information relevant to an exhibition at
the Passmore Edwards Museum, concerned with deer reproduction, but
it will be useful as an elementary introduction to the subject for amateurs
who may be interested.
A short introductory chapter reviews in a general way the status of
deer, and the problems associated with these animals in a changing
world. This reviewer is especially sympathetic with the view expressed,
now gaining wide acceptance, that deer properly managed are far from
being a nuisance in wild conditions, but are potentially a valuable asset
for several reasons.
The two succeeding chapters deal with reproductive cycles in the
male and female, respectively. Such matters as secondary sexual
characteristics, hormonal control, development of sex organs, reproductive
behaviour, gestation, and birth, are briefly described. In conclusion,
attention is drawn to the need for further study. There are a list of
references, and a short bibliography. The book contains some attractive
photographs, and there are excellent line drawings of deer by the former
Secretary of the Club, the late Eric Saunders.
Alan Heathcote.
Blandford's Rural Studies Series. Blandford Press, 1966. Book 5—"Insect
Life of Farm and Garden", by M. J. D. Hirons. 89 pages. 12/6.
Book 6—"The Farmers' Crops", by G. A. Perry. 103 pages. 12/6.
Book 7—"Science in the Garden", by M. J. Rolls and R. B. Morrison.
66 pages. 12/6. Book 8—"Growing and Studying Trees", by J. B.
Wood. 95 pages. 12/6.
The four titles are now added to the Blandford's Rural Studies Series.
The series is generally designed for use in schools and for use in Rural
Science, as well as general interest. The illustrations in the series are
good, the section headings and diagrams are well laid out and there are
exercises and "things to do" at the end of each chapter