Local Abrolhos wildlife expert Dr Chris Surman releasing new version of book to raise funds for research

Local expert on the wildlife of the Abrolhos, Dr Chris Surman, will be releasing a second edition of his guide to the islands with more to learn about the incredible biodiverse region.

Three years after the first edition of Houtman Abrolhos — A Natural History, Dr Surman has updated the book with 30 additional pages on the issues facing the islands today, a bird guide and many new photographs of wildlife above and under the water.

“I’ve been constantly updating the information, seeing what’s been happening in the Abrolhos over the last few years, seeing what needs it has, and responding to questions and feedback from the book,” he said.

The first edition of the book was a great success, according to Dr Surman, and even received praise from Sir David Attenborough and Kim Beazley.

Funds from the book help support his team’s research into the seabirds of the Abrolhos.

“We wanted to raise awareness of the unique conservation values of the Houtman Abrolhos while helping raise some funds for research,” Dr Surman said.

“We’ve been able to buy GPS trackers which cost a lot ... to track the seabirds and continue our research so it’s been a great resource.”

Dr Surman said the public had always been fascinated by the unique and distinct landscape and ecosystem of the Abrolhos.

“The colours are vibrant, the sky is bright and stark, and it’s brutal as well, that’s part of its beauty,” he said.

“There’s a mix of tropical and temperate species here which you don’t see anywhere else.”

The second edition of Houtman Abrolhos - A Natural History is set to release on November 30 and is available for pre-order at Halfmoon Biosciences’ website or by emailing halfmoon.biosciences@westnet.com.au.