People in most countries are familiar with the blue peacock. This book brings together all the facets of the peacock including natural and social history, its role in religions and mythology in the East and West, and its place in the history of art and artefacts.
William Yarrell (1784-1856) was an influential naturalist at a time when natural history was becoming an important factor in 19th century society. He wrote two notable books: A History of British Fishes and A History of British Birds, that were being quoted as the authorities well into the next century and are still admired today.