Topsell, Edward c. 1572-1625

Edward Topsell (c. 1572 –1625) was an English cleric and author best remembered for his bestiary, "The Historie of Foure-footed Beastes, describing the true and lively Figure of every Beast ...". He also published lectures upon the book of Ruth and an exposition of the prophet Joel in 427 sermons/meditations, and a second zoological work "The Historie of Serpents ... ".

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Topsell

Dictionary of National Biography, Volume 57 - 1899 (see page 59)