Overview for A Handbook of The Mammals of India
In this volume the author has recorded the results of his minute observations of a vast variety of vertebrates, classed as mammals-the carefree denizens of the dense forests and woodlands which clothed the hills, the plains and the mountains of India nearly a century ago. Mammals are warm-blooded, viviparous animals and are distinguished from birds as well as from the other vertebrated animals, by the possession of mammary glands, secreting a nutritious fluid called milk for the nourishment of their young and terminating outwardly in all (except one or two) by teats. They are also distinguished by a covering of hair, entire or partial. Mammals require to be placed first because they enjoy the most numerous faculties, the most delicate sensations, the most varied powers of motion. In mammals the organs of senses are highly specialized and in a great state of perfection. The author who was a keen naturalist and a hunter, has recorded his observations after a deep and minute study of the nature, habits and instincts of more than 250 species. The book describes a complete natural history of mammals of India. He has been able to give considerable information on the habitat and geographical distribution of numerous animals which was previously unknown. The book will prove an asset not only to the zoologists and naturalists but also to keen observers and lovers of animals.
T.C. Jerdon (Author)
Thomas Claverhill Jerdon (1811-1872), son of Archibald Jerdon, joined the medical service in Madras, 1835; retired 1864, and died June 12, 1872. He is best known as a zoologist, by his Illustrations of Indian Ornithology, 1844; Birds of India, 1862-4; Mammals of India, 1867, which are standard works of reference to this day.
Bagchee
