Observations of Wildlife - Tapa dura

Peter Scott, founder of the Wildfowl & Wetland Trust (WWT), is one of the most influential figures in conservation history, but much of his enthusiasm for wildlife was most visible through his paintings of nature. Observations of Wildlife showcases a colourful collection of some of his finest pieces of artistry, drawing from forty years of his life. Scott's work both as a conservationist and artist has achieved international acclaim and inspired generations, and his two passions are elaborated in detail in this book. First published in 1980, Observations of Wildlife features high quality reproductions of his artwork, including paintings, drawings and fascinating pages from his notebooks and diaries. The text describes Scott's career, working methods as an artist, global travels and his commitment and concerns about nature - issues that are still just as significant in today's environment.

Sir Peter Scott was born in 1909, son of Captain Robert Falcon Scott of the Antarctic. He was educated at Oundle School and Trinity College, Cambridge, after which he attended art schools in Munich and London. His first exhibition was held in 1933. During the Second World War in the RNVR he was awarded the DSC and Bar for gallantry while serving in destroyers and steam gunboats. In 1946 he founded Slimbridge the Severn Wildlife Trust (now the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust), a non-profit-making organisation devoted to research, conservation, recreation and education, whose purpose is to study ducks, geese, swans and flamingos of the world. Since its inception the trust has expanded into a total of nine centres throughout the UK. As well as being a founder of the World Wildlife Fund, (now the Worldwide Fund for Nature), Sir Peter served over the years as chairman of many international organisations, and in 1973 was the first person ever to be knighted for services to conservation and the environment. He won a bronze medal for sailing in the 1936 Olympic Games, and in 1963 became British National Gliding Champion.