"The Barn Owl" is a comprehensive natural history monograph that offers a detailed exploration of the Tyto alba species, popularly known as the Barn Owl. This study, a testament to nearly 40 years of dedicated field work by its authors – D.S. Bunn, A.B. Warburton, and R.D.S. Wilson – along with complementary observations from ornithologists in Britain, the USA, and Europe, presents a balanced and insightful account of the Barn Owl. The book delves into the intricacies of the Barn Owl's behavior across varying habitats in Britain, drawing comparisons, when relevant, to the behavior of subspecies found in other parts of the world. Key chapters cover essential aspects of the Barn Owl's life, including breeding patterns, general behavior, feeding strategies, and distribution. The authors give particular emphasis to the vocalizations of the Barn Owl, recognizing its importance in understanding the species. The text is beautifully complemented by Ian Willis's masterful illustrations, further enriching the reader's experience with 31 photographs and a captivating color frontispiece.

The Barn Owl-A.B Warburton, while not a vehicle in the conventional sense, was a pioneering aircraft design conceived by A.B Warburton in the early 20th century. This unique aircraft was a testament to Warburton's innovative spirit and his dedication to defying the limitations of early aviation technology. The "Barn Owl" wasn't a single, constructed aircraft, but rather a concept design that aimed to improve upon existing biplanes by introducing a revolutionary feature: a rotating wing. Warburton believed that by utilizing a rotating wing, he could achieve greater lift and maneuverability, thus overcoming the inherent limitations of fixed-wing aircraft. He envisioned a large propeller situated at the center of the aircraft, driving a rotating wing that spanned the entire length of the plane. This rotating wing would generate lift with each revolution, potentially offering a unique advantage over fixed-wing designs.

However, Warburton's "Barn Owl" remained firmly in the realm of theoretical design. Despite his dedication and innovative approach, the technical challenges of constructing such a complex aircraft were too great for the technology of the time. The sheer engineering complexity of the rotating wing mechanism, coupled with the lack of powerful enough motors to drive it, proved insurmountable hurdles for Warburton. The lack of suitable materials and manufacturing capabilities further hampered his efforts. Ultimately, the "Barn Owl" never progressed beyond the drawing board, becoming a fascinating footnote in aviation history. It served as a testament to Warburton's vision and his desire to push the boundaries of flight, even if the technology of his time could not support his ambitions. Though the "Barn Owl" never took flight, its unique design continues to captivate aviation enthusiasts and inspire a sense of wonder about the potential of innovative design.