COTT, Hugh B. Adaptive Coloration in Animals. London: Methuen & Co. Ltd., 1940. First edition.
With an introduction by Julian S. Huxley. Original publisher's green cloth, spine lettered in gilt. xxxii, 508 pp. Complete with all 49 plates, including the colour frontispiece, and numerous illustrations in the text.
A classic study of animal camouflage, warning colouration and mimicry, examining how colour and pattern enable animals to conceal themselves, deter predators and deceive other species.
Drawing examples from across the animal kingdom, Cott explores countershading, disruptive patterns and the remarkable resemblance of animals to leaves, bark and their surroundings. His photographs and drawings combine close observation with clear visual explanations, making this a compelling work of natural history as well as an important contribution to the study of adaptation.
Published in 1940, the book also draws parallels between concealment in nature and military camouflage, extending its interest to the history of wartime deception and visual perception.
Size
25.5 x 17.5cm
Condition: Good overall. Original green cloth with pronounced fraying and some loss at the head of the spine, and lesser wear to the corners. Gilt spine lettering remains clear. Internal hinges beginning to loosen towards the head of the spine, with some play in the boards. Slight sunning to the spine. Internally generally clean, with light spotting to the endpapers, a pencil price and ink ownership inscription. Complete with all 49 plates. Without dust jacket.
Provenance: With the ownership inscription of Dr Robin Wootton, zoologist and entomologist, formerly Reader in Insect Biomechanics at the University of Exeter. Wootton's research focused particularly on insect flight and wing structure.
