Humayun Abdulali-Naturalist

This book is a fascinating account of the life of Humayun Abdulati (1914-2001),a pioneer naturalist and conservationist and an extraordinary man. It begins with 3 chapters of an unfinished autobiography written by the late Humayun. His projected outline for the rest has been worked up from his notes and scientific papers, as well as the reminiscences of many who knew him. A final section looks at his personality and achievements. It includes a Bibliography complied by Dr Salman Abdulali, and an appraisal of Humayun’s scientific contributions by Dr Pamela Rasmussen, who is a leading authority on the birds of South Asia. The book traces how an insatiable curiosity about all things natural transformed a young man with a love of speed and shikar into one of the most significant naturalists of modern India. Perhaps even those who knew Humayun will find in this account some illuminating aspects of his life and work, and for others it should be an introduction to a truly remarkable man.