The book is a comprehensive guide for bird enthusiasts on how to collect and preserve bird nests and eggs for study purposes. It provides detailed instructions on how to identify different bird species, locate their nests, and carefully remove their eggs without causing harm to the birds or damaging the eggs. The book also includes information on how to preserve the nests and eggs, as well as how to properly store and display them. Some wear to cover. Binding is tight. I think, but am not sure that this is a first ed.