Celebrating New Zealand’s Birdlife: Books by Robert and Molly Falla
- Kirsten Edwards
- Jul 31
- 3 min read
Sir Robert Falla (1901–1979), a distinguished New Zealand ornithologist and director of the Dominion Museum, and his wife, Lady Molly Falla, shared a profound passion for nature, particularly birds. Robert’s notable career included a 1929 Antarctic expedition with Sir Douglas Mawson, after which he published the highly regarded BANZARE report. Learn more about his remarkable life at Te Ara.
Robert married Molly in May 1928, and after settling in Wellington, they created works that inspire appreciation for New Zealand’s wildlife.
Books by Sir Robert Falla
Birds by R. A. Falla
Illustrated by E. Mervyn Taylor, Published for Primary Schools, 1960 National Library Entry
This concise 40-page softcover, designed for young students, features clear black-and-white illustrations throughout. Each page highlights a single bird with a brief description and questions to encourage further exploration. The final 10 pages provide short summaries of additional species. The book is well-written but brief. Given Robert’s passion for birdlife, conservation, and teaching, I expected a more substantial and personal account. Perhaps writing wasn’t his strength. However, the bird-watching tips at the beginning are a highlight. I recommend this book for primary school classrooms or families introducing children to New Zealand birds.
The Holiday Naturalist in New Zealand by R. A. Falla
Published by Reed, 1971
Derived from Robert’s NZBC radio talks, this book encourages readers to engage with New Zealand’s wildlife across seas, lakes, rivers, paddocks, and forests. The inside flap states, “Its intention is to encourage people to open their senses to the creatures around them,” and “To be a naturalist is to take time to look and listen, to let the living world reveal itself” (p. 15).
Written in a conversational tone, it’s accessible for adults and children, with black-and-white drawings and photographs complementing the text. The book offers a wealth of fascinating information. I do recommend.
Note: Robert also wrote field guides and scientific papers, but these are less common in bookstores and more technical in nature.
Books by Lady Molly Falla
Molly Falla’s life revolved around Robert’s career, but their shared love of nature was evident from the start. From childhood, Molly enjoyed keeping pets and drawing. After moving to Day’s Bay, Wellington, in 1954, she began sketching and painting birds, often caring for orphaned chicks she raised and released. Her three books, filled with stunning artwork and engaging stories, are treasures for nature lovers.
A Sketchbook of New Zealand Birds by Molly Falla
Published by Reed, 1966
This book showcases Molly’s artistry with stunning full-colour illustrations throughout. She shares stories of rearing and painting birds while offering practical tips for aspiring artists. An essential for someone who really wants to pursue the art of drawing and sketching nature - lots of helpful information.
A Kea on My Bed by Molly Falla
Published by Collins, 1974
One day, Robert brought home a kea chick, found in an abandoned nest beside its dead sibling. For five months, Molly nurtured this mischievous parrot, sketching and painting its lively antics. The result is a delightful book, written in an engaging style with wonderful artwork. One of my favourite New Zealand nature books.
A Pocket Full of Penguins by Molly Falla
Published by Reed, 1970
At Day’s Bay, the Fallas cared for many birds, but penguins were a favourite. Molly dedicated this book to the stories of the little penguins they raised and released. The text is engaging and delightful, and Molly’s paintings complement her writing beautifully. I highly recommend for homeschoolers learning about New Zealand birds.
Final Thoughts
These are books I recommend by Robert and Molly Falla. They both had a deep love of New Zealand wildlife, especially the birds, and they sought to raise awareness through art and education. I hope their books will not be forgotten in history, so if you see them in secondhand shops, please buy and read them to your children.
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