The Royal Zoological Society of New South Wales presents the awards to outstanding publications relating to the fauna of the Australasian region. The award recognises her work in the field as a landmark publication

“This is the first time in 40 years that an attempt has been made to bring all the land birds together in one volume and discuss them on this scale. This book specifically puts a light on Australian native species,” Professor Kaplan said.

She said it is an important validation for native birds to discuss their contribution and evolution, and how they can be conserved.

“We are a bird-rich country with 500 species that are song or land birds. I haven’t included water or wetland birds,” she said.

Professor Kaplan received the award at a gala dinner in Sydney.