Horace Alexander

Horace Gundry Alexander (30 July 1889 – 30 September 1989) was an English Quaker teacher, writer, pacifist and ornithologist. He was the brother of Wilfred Backhouse Alexander.

Alexander was an avid bird watcher who became involved in the bird protection movements of the 20th century. He was part of a small group of amateur ornithologists who combined the pleasure of birdwatching with scientific contributions to the field. Alexander made numerous observations especially in Great Britain but also in India and the United States.

Alexander lived in England for most of his life but spent his last years in the US. A Quaker and pacifist, he had a great friendship with Gandhi (who in 1942 described Alexander as one of the best friends the world had). India), and in 1984 he received the Padma Bhushan medal, the highest civilian distinction given in India to foreigners.

Alexander was founder of the West Midland Bird Club, and its president, during his long residence in Birmingham, England.

He died two months after turning 100 years old

Biography

• J. Duncan Wood - Horace Alexander: Birds and Binoculars ISBN 1-85072-289-7