This book reviews comprehensively incubation effects on embryonic development in birds and reptiles and presents the first ever synthesis of data from these two vertebrate classes. The book is in three parts. The first deals with the structure, shape and function of eggs. The second examines the effects of the four main parameters on the process of incubation: temperature, water relations, respiratory gas exchange, and turning. The third section deals with early embryonic development and the methods used to investigate and manipulate the embryo. Further chapters deal with aestivation, megapodes and oviparity. International experts in each field have contributed to this extensively referenced volume and it will be of great interest not only to research biologists, but also to bird and reptile breeders, whether in commercial organisations or in zoos.

"...an authoritative summary of achievements in the physiological ecology of egg incubation of birds and reptiles, not only reviewing recent developments in this field but defining areas for inquiry. It is exactly what is required for advances in our understanding of the physiology and evolution of the amniote egg." Barry Sinervo, Science

"This authoritative work stands as a comprehensive guide to a changing field, and will prove valuable to individuals in developmental biology, physiology, ecology, evolutionary biology, wildlife management, and other zoological disciplines." Choice

"As stated in the preface, 'this book...aims to be a comprehensive review of relevant and avian embryonic data: a text designed as a reference guide for the next few years.' The coverage is actually broader than that, and the book serves its purpose well." Thomas R. Howell, Journal of Field Ornithology