John Latham (1761–1843)

John Latham (1761–1843)

John Latham (27 June 1761 – 4 February 1843) was an English physician, naturalist and author. He is best known for his work in ornithology, but also had broad interests in natural history, including botany and entomology. He has been described as "the grandfather of Australian ornithology".

Early life and education

Latham was born in Eltham in south-east London. He went to school in Dartford, Kent, before studying medicine at Guy's Hospital. He worked as a general practitioner in Dartford for around ten years before moving to London in 1790.

Career

In London, Latham began to concentrate on natural history research. His first publication was "A General Synopsis of Birds" (1781–1801), which included many species previously unclassified. Latham maintained a medical practice in London and was also a fellow of the Royal Society, the Linnean Society, and the Wernerian Natural History Society of Edinburgh.

Legacy

Latham's work is significant for his systematic approach to bird classification, which influenced later ornithologists such as John Gould. He is also notable for his early descriptions of Australian bird species, many of which he named. His ornithological collections are held by the Natural History Museum, London.

See also

• List of ornithologists
• History of ornithology

External links

• Works by John Latham at Biodiversity Heritage Library