Douglas Dewar

Born in 1875 and dying in 1957, Douglas Dewar was a British barrister, civil servant in India, and ornithologist. He wrote widely for newspapers and periodicals, and he is best remembered for books on Indian birdlife that drew on direct observation and a clear, energetic style.

Much of his writing grew out of his years in India, where he developed a strong interest in natural history. That background gave his books an on-the-ground feel, making them appealing both to general readers and to people curious about birds and the environments they inhabit.

Later in life, he also became known for his outspoken criticism of evolutionary theory. Even so, his place in nature writing rests largely on the vivid bird books and articles that introduced many readers to the wildlife of India.