Oh Quagga! by Ian Parker is a fascinating and increasingly scarce work of African conservation literature published in Nairobi, Kenya in 1983. Combining sharp commentary, personal observation, humour, and controversy, Parker examines the complicated relationship between humans and animals through discussions on pets, hunting, conservation, wildlife management, and environmental ethics in Africa.
Ian Parker was one of Africa's most outspoken game wardens and conservation commentators, known for challenging accepted conservation ideologies and bringing firsthand field experience into public debate. In Oh Quagga!, Parker presents an engaging and provocative perspective on wildlife preservation and the realities of conservation across East Africa during a transformative period in African environmental history.
The work is richly enhanced by photographs from celebrated wildlife photographers Alan and Joan Root together with renowned Kenyan photojournalist Mohamed Amin. Distinctive line illustrations by Alec Forbes-Watson further contribute to the book's unique visual identity and charm.
Titles published independently in East Africa during this period were often produced in relatively small print runs, and Oh Quagga! now appears genuinely difficult to source internationally. Oh Quagga! remains highly desirable to collectors of Africana, wildlife and safari literature, East African history, hunting and conservation studies, and environmental philosophy.
A notable and collectible addition to any Africana or wildlife conservation collection, particularly for readers interested in African ecological debates and the history of conservation policy on the continent.
Condition - Good
1983 hardcover published by Ian Parker, Nairobi, Kenya. Book itself remains in good condition with light general handling wear and a sound binding. Original dust jacket is only in fair condition, showing heavy edge wear, rubbing, chipping, creasing, and partial separation at the hinges. Despite the jacket wear, the book presents well and remains a scarce and collectible East African conservation title.
