Mriga.pakshi.shastra: The Science of Animals and Birds

by Hamsadeva - Nalini Sadhale & Y L Nene (Tr)

This book is a translation by Nalini Sadhale and Y L Nene of a 13th century Sanskrit manuscript by Hamsadeva, who is reported to be a poet and naturalist attached to the court of King Shaudadeva. The King was captivated by the graceful sights and movements of several animals and birds in the forest and his mind was overwhelmed with pity at the thought of their destruction and eventual extinction through hunting. He therefore ordered his minister Tarananda to commission a suitable person to write about these creatures dwelling in the forests and mountains. Tarananda selected Hamsadeva to undertake this work.