Biodiversity / Ecosystems Books
HarperCollins Publishers The Trials of Life
Book SynopsisThe third and final updated edition of David Attenborough's classic Life trilogy. Life on Earth covered evolution, Living Planet , ecology, and now The Trials of Life tackles ethology, the study of how animals behave.Trade ReviewPraise for the New Edition of Life on Earth: ‘It does not disappoint. The new Life on Earth is as glorious as the first’ Guardian ‘A beautiful and wide ranging work. The breadth of natural history covered is extraordinary and mesmerising. Life on Earth is still breathtakingly rich, and we would know far less about it were it not for Attenborough’s wonderful skills of communication over the years: our cultural and scientific lives would be poorer without him’ New Scientist ‘This natural history masterpiece offers a spectacular snapshot of a once-wild planet’ New Scientist Praise for David Attenborough: ‘A marvellous book … unputdownable … utterly engaging’ Telegraph ‘An elegant and gently funny writer’ The Times ‘His writing is as impressive and as enjoyable as his TV programmes and there can be no higher praise’ Daily Express ‘A great educator as well as a great naturalist’ Barack Obama ‘Sir David is a wizard of television, and, like Gandalf or Dumbledore, he has a near-magical gift for combining warmth and gravitas . . . the man who, for me, exemplifies the best in British broadcasting’ Louis Theroux ‘When I was a young boy I used to love turning on the television and watching David's programmes and really feeling like I was either back out in Africa or I was learning about something magical and almost out of this planet’ HRH Prince William
£10.44
HarperCollins Publishers Origin Africa
Book SynopsisA major new look at how Africa's geological history, climate, geography and biology resulted in the wonderful diversity of life found there. It is also the story of how it was the crucible for the evolution most extraordinary species on Earth Homo sapiens.Africa has properties that ensure that most of human evolution could have occurred nowhere else. A greater diversity of mammal, bird and many other forms of life has forced more and more species to squeeze into narrower and narrower niches. Human complexity has evolved directly in response to this, the most complex of continents. On offer here is an intensely personal portrait of a continent bolstered by Jonathan Kingdon''s own animal senses, the same excited set of senses he was born in Africa with. Senses that look, listen, scent and grasp at the mother-continent. Not just his personal motherland but the birthplace of all humanity.Trade Review‘Magnificent. So rich, moving with ease through deep time and biological place, using a lifetime of thought’ Redmond O’Hanlon ‘Africa from the inside … Extremely good stuff’ Paul Theroux ‘Lovely … and the pictures are magnificent’ Richard Dawkins Praise for Jonathan Kingdon 'Jonathan Kingdon's work is one of the things that make the present day such an exciting time for anyone with the slightest intellectual curiosity. His subject matter is our profound and thrilling human origins, and his stance toward it makes his work unique and priceless' Philip Pullman 'Jonathan Kingdon is a subtle amalgam of artist and scientist. He has a deep and up-to-date knowledge of human prehistory, and of the topology and geography of Africa, the continent where most of human prehistory happened. But he is also our leading zoological artist, and I think it must be his artist's eye that gives his writing style its vividness' Richard Dawkins, Times Literary Supplement
£27.00
Michael O'Mara Books Ltd The Good Bug
Book SynopsisFollowing on from the success of The Good Bee, this beautifully illustrated celebration of insects by leading entomologist George McGavin highlights the pivotal role they play in our ecosystems, and what we can do to help them survive and thrive.Insects are fascinating and ingenious. They also play an incredibly important role in maintaining life on planet Earth, and are particularly pivotal to our own survival. And yet they are under threat because of us. Since they appeared on land 420 million years ago, these small six-legged animals have been pioneers and ultimate survivors. Around 87 per cent of all plant species need animal pollination and most of this is delivered by insects - they also maintain healthy soil, assist in decomposition and are essential to the food web. This book is a celebration, and also a call to arms. One of the UK’s foremost entomologists and respected academics, George McG
£9.89
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc Rambunctious Garden: Saving Nature in a Post-Wild
Book Synopsis______________''Remarkable ... Emma Marris explores a paradox that is increasingly vexing the science of ecology, namely that the only way to have a pristine wilderness is to manage it intensively'' The Wall Street Journal''Ms Marris''s book is an insightful analysis of the thinking that informs nature conservation'' - The Economist''What may be the most important book about the environment in a generation'' - Idaho Statesman______________A paradigm shift is roiling the environmental world. For decades people have unquestioningly accepted the idea that our goal is to preserve nature in its pristine, pre-human state. But many scientists have come to see this as an outdated dream that thwarts bold new plans to save the environment and prevents us from having a fuller relationship with nature. Humans have changed the landscapes they inhabit since prehistory, and climate change means even the remotest places now bear the fingerprints of humanity. Emma Marris argues convincingly that it is time to look forward and create the "rambunctious garden," a hybrid of wild nature and human management.In this optimistic book, readers meet leading scientists and environmentalists and visit imaginary Edens, designer ecosystems, and Pleistocene parks. Marris describes innovative conservation approaches, including rewilding, assisted migration, and the embrace of so-called novel ecosystems.Rambunctious Garden is short on gloom and long on interesting theories and fascinating narratives, all of which bring home the idea that we must give up our romantic notions of pristine wilderness and replace them with the concept of a global, half-wild rambunctious garden planet, tended by us.______________''Marris is a whip-smart writer . . . already being compared to the greatest environmental writers and thinkers of the past century, Rachel Carson and Aldo Leopold'' - San Francisco Chronicle______________
£11.69
Whittles Publishing The Highland Cow and the Horse of the Woods
Book Synopsis
£18.00
HarperCollins Publishers The Burren
Book SynopsisThe Burren is one of those rare and magical places where geology, glacial history, botany, zoology and millennia of cultural history have converged to create a unique landscape of extraordinary natural history interest. It is without equal to any other area in Ireland or Britain.To the unsuspecting tourist, much of the landscape of the Burren looks bleak, rocky, and inhospitable for any sort of farming. Yet the Burren is an agricultural landscape that has been continuously farmed since the first settlers began clearing the forest cover in the Neolithic period. Today there are several hundred farms within the Burren area. Most of these families live and work there and the farmers are crucial for the Burren's future as an area of unique landscape and ecological interest.The area attracts any naturalist with an eye for beauty, but it is the intricacies of the species' ecology, their links to the soil or to a particular insect that is really fascinating. It is a veritable paradise for natuTrade ReviewPraise for David Cabot: ‘A comprehensive addition to Collins’ iconic New Naturalist series. Lavishly illustrated … this book should provide great inspiration.’ Birdwatch ‘Informative and beautifully illustrated throughout’ IBIS ‘The authors and publishers deserve our gratitude for a product that is not only thorough, comprehensive, and a joy to read, but lavishly illustrated with carefully chosen colour photographs and sketches […] The book is very well written and beautifully illustrated […] a delight to add to the bookshelf.’ Journal of Field Ornithology ‘Ireland is a monumental, near-definitive natural history of this country … a valuable, scientifically-based, professionally-indexed and accessible study …’ The Irish Times ‘An outstanding reference work as well as a compendium of fascinating detail. It deserves an honoured place on the library shelves of every home and school.’ Sunday Independent Dublin
£29.75
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Urban Plants
Book SynopsisAn illuminating account of urban botany in the British Isles its ecology, history and cultural significance.
£37.50
HarperCollins Publishers The Heartbeat of Trees Embracing Our Ancient Bond
Book SynopsisFROM THE AUTHOR OF THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER,THE HIDDEN LIFE OF TREESA simultaneously stimulating and soothing blend of nature writing and science Strongly encourages tree hugging for our own, human sake' Guardian Summer Reads 2021A powerful return to the forest, where trees have heartbeats and roots are like brains that extend underground. Where the colour green calms us, and the forest sharpens our senses.In The Heartbeat of Trees, renowned forester Peter Wohlleben draws on new scientific discoveries to show how humans are deeply connected to the natural world. In an era of climate change, many of us fear we've lost our connection to nature, but Wohlleben is convinced that age-old ties linking humans to the forest remain alive and intact. We just have to know where to look.Drawing on science and cutting-edge research, The Heartbeat of Trees reveals the profound interactions humans can have with nature, exploring:the language of the forestthe consciousness of plantsand the eroding Trade Review‘A simultaneously stimulating and soothing blend of nature writing and science’ Guardian ‘Wohlleben confronts [climate change] directly. He is trenchant in his critique of tree plantations and wood-pellet-power plants, which claim to help the climate but, he argues, end up destabilizing it further’ New Yorker ‘[A] detailed, easy-to-read summary of what research has shown us about “the language of the forest, the consciousness of plants, and the eroding boundary between flora and fauna.” In this excellent and updated sequel to his The Hidden Life of Trees,[…] Wohlleben writes beautifully about the reciprocal bonds we can form with trees and all sorts of nature’ Psychology Today ‘It’s hard to dispute the book’s overall message; namely, that time spent in nature can serve as both a balm for anxiety and a bulwark against despair’ Globe and Mail ‘[An] eclectic look at humanity’s relationships with trees… Nature-minded readers will enjoy this episodic deep dive’ Publishers Weekly ‘Drawing on scientific evidence and his many years of experience, [Peter Wohlleben] extolls the wonders of the forest. A persuasive invitation to get outside and bathe in nature, perfect for tree huggers and fans of the author’s other books’ Kirkus Reviews ‘A return to the wonders of trees’ Booklist ‘[The Heartbeat of Trees] showcases the interconnectedness of humans and nature … Wohlleben takes a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating history, science, medicine, and mysticism. He balances poetic descriptions with analytical thoughts; beauty is at the heart of both. The result is a text that is full of wonder and insatiable curiosity, and that invites love for humanity and the natural world’ Foreword Reviews ‘[Like] a walk in the woods…[Wohlleben] urges hope, not despair, about our environmental malaise. [The Heartbeat of Trees] will appeal to fans of popular science and anyone curious about natural history’ Library Journal
£9.49
Oxford University Press Islands Beyond the Horizon
Book SynopsisIslands have an irresistible attraction and an enduring appeal. Naturalist Roger Lovegrove has visited many of the most remote islands in the world, and in this book he takes the reader to twenty that fascinate him the most. Some are familiar but most are little known; they range from the storm-bound island of South Georgia and the ice-locked Arctic island of Wrangel to the wind-swept, wave-lashed Mykines and St Kilda. The range is diverse and spectacular; and whether distant, offshore, inhabited, uninhabited, tropical or polar, each is a unique self-contained habitat with a delicately-balanced ecosystem, and each has its own mystique and ineffable magnetism. Central to each story is also the impact of human settlers. Lovegrove recounts unforgettable tales of human endeavour, tragedy, and heroism. But consistently, he has to report on the mankind''s negative impact on wildlife and habitats -- from the exploitation of birds for food to the elimination of native vegetation for crops. By Trade ReviewRoger Lovegrove's admiration for wildlife shines * Nature *Table of ContentsPreface ; Acknowledgements ; Introduction ; 1. Wrangel ; 2. Chinijo Archipelago ; 3. Jan Mayen ; 4. Mykines ; 5. Guam ; 6. San Blas Islands ; 7. Ascension ; 8. Fernando de Noronha ; 9. Mingulay ; 10. Pico ; 11. Tristan da Cunha ; 12. Vigur ; 13. St Kilda ; 14. South Georgia ; 15. Halfmoon Island ; 16. The Skelligs ; 17. Isle aux Aigrettes ; 18. Solovetski Islands ; 19. St Peter and St Paul Rocks ; 20. Tuamotu Archipelago ; Epilogue ; Scientific Names of Species ; References
£10.44
Princeton University Press Ecological Niches and Geographic Distributions
Book SynopsisFocuses on correlative approaches known as ecological niche modeling, species distribution modeling, or habitat suitability modeling, which use associations between known occurrences of species and environmental variables to identify environmental conditions under which populations can be maintained.Trade Review"[Ecological Niches and Geographic Distributions] would serve as an excellent and authoritative textbook or resource for an upper-level undergraduate or graduate-level class on ecological modeling."--Choice "This book is an impressively well written exposition of the conceptual foundation, practical implementation, and potential applications of niche modeling... Overall, this book is an instant classic and a critical read for anyone interested in this fast-moving field of ecological niche modeling. I have already assigned it as required reading to graduate students in my lab."--Alycia Stigall, Priscum "I found this book very useful. Its theoretical rigor will please those already involved with niche modeling, and its numerous and interesting examples make it accessible to a broad readership."--Ian S. Pearce, Quarterly Review of Biology "Ecological Niches And Geographic Distributions concisely summarizes the conceptual framework and current major issues in a diverse and rapidly expanding literature. The numerous illustrations help to clarify key concepts and case studies, and the writing is clear throughout. Although the book sometimes forgoes depth in favor of clarity, ultimately I feel that this approach is for the best; many of the chapters in Parts 2 and 3 could be expanded to fill entire books of their own, but doing so would necessarily sacrifice much of the 'big picture' that is the focus of this volume. Ecological niches and geographic distributions would be a worthy addition to the library of any investigator using ENM/SDM methods in their research, and would be an excellent resource for students and investigators who are encountering the field for the first time."--Dan L. Warren, Ecology "With a real exploration of key concepts, this book will be an essential guide for students and researchers, providing a theoretical framework with which to support future progress in the field. This book is highly recommended."--Evelyne Bremond-Hoslet, National d'Histoire Naturelle "The seven authors have merged their ideas seamlessly."--Janet Sprent, Bulletin of the British Ecology SocietyTable of Contents*FrontMatter, pg. i*Table of Contents, pg. v*Acknowledgments, pg. ix*Chapter One. Introduction, pg. 1*Chapter Two. Concepts Of Niches, pg. 7*Chapter Three. Niches And Geographic Distributions, pg. 23*Chapter Four. Niches And Distributions In Practice: Overview, pg. 51*Chapter Five. Species' Occurrence Data, pg. 62*Chapter Six. Environmental Data, pg. 82*Chapter Seven. Modeling Ecological Niches, pg. 97*Chapter Eight. From Niches To Distributions, pg. 138*Chapter Nine. Evaluating Model Performance And Signifi Cance, pg. 150*Chapter Ten. Introduction To Applications, pg. 185*Chapter Eleven. Discovering Biodiversity, pg. 189*Chapter Twelve. Conservation Planning And Climate Change Effects, pg. 200*Chapter Thirteen. Species' Invasions, pg. 215*Chapter Fourteen. The Geography Of Disease Transmission, pg. 226*Chapter Fifteen. Linking Niches With Evolutionary Processes, pg. 238*Appendix A. Glossary Of Symbols Used, pg. 261*Appendix B. Set Theory For G- And E-Space, pg. 266*Glossary, pg. 269*Bibliography, pg. 281
£49.30
CABI Publishing Finding Resilience: Change and Uncertainty in
Book SynopsisFloods, fires, famines, epidemics and disasters of all kinds are on the increase, and as their frequency rises so does the call for greater resilience. But what does that mean? The word is used differently in psychology, ecology, economics and engineering and runs the risk of becoming meaningless jargon. This would be most unfortunate because, if we are to successfully navigate very real and dangerous global trends, it is resilience that needs to be understood and fostered. Finding Resilience is international in scope and unravels how ecosystems, societies and people cope with disturbance and adversity. Written for a general readership and based on the experiences of researchers, the fascinating stories from around the world reveal what resilience is, how it works in different kinds of systems, how it is expressed, and how it can be gained and lost.Table of Contents1: WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT? 1: Connections in a changing world 2: Another pathway 2: ENCOUNTERING RESILIENCE IN NATURE 3: Living together in ecosystems 4: Ecological choreography 5: Disturbance, change and diversity 3: THE NATURE OF RESILIENCE IN SOCIETY 6: Coping with life 7: Living together in society 8: Weathering crises 4: NATURE, SOCIETY AND RESILIENCE 9: Unintended outcomes 10: Growing pains 5: A WAY FORWARD 11: Changing cultures 12: A resilience pathway
£41.70
Springer International Publishing AG Handbook of Climate Change and Biodiversity
Book SynopsisThis book comprehensively describes essential research and projects on climate change and biodiversity. Moreover, it includes contributions on how to promote the climate agenda and biodiversity conservation at the local level. Climate change as a whole and global warming in particular are known to have a negative impact on biodiversity in three main ways. Firstly, increases in temperatures are detrimental to a number of organisms, especially those in sensitive habitats such as coral reefs and rainforests. Secondly, the pressures posed by a changing climate may lead to sets of responses in areas as varied as phenology, range and physiology of living organisms, often leading to changes in their lifecycles (especially but not only in reproduction), losses in productivity or even death. In some cases, the very survival of very sensitive species may be endangered. Thirdly, the impacts of climate change on biodiversity will be felt in the short term with regard to some species and ecosystems, but also in the medium and long term in many biomes. Indeed, if left unchecked, some of these impacts may be irreversible. Many individual governments, financial institutes and international donors are currently spending billions of dollars on projects addressing climate change and biodiversity, but with little coordination. Quite often, the emphasis is on adaptation efforts, with little emphasis on the connections between physio-ecological changes and the lifecycles and metabolisms of fauna and flora, or the influence of poor governance on biodiversity. As such, there is a recognized need to not only better understand the impacts of climate change on biodiversity, but to also identify, test and implement measures aimed at managing the many risks that climate change poses to fauna, flora and micro-organisms. In particular, the question of how to restore and protect ecosystems from the impact of climate change also has to be urgently addressed. This book was written to address this need. The respective papers explore matters related to the use of an ecosystem-based approach to increase local adaptation capacity, consider the significance of a protected areas network in preserving biodiversity in a changing northern European climate, and assess the impacts of climate change on specific species, including wild terrestrial animals. The book also presents a variety of case studies such as the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative, the effects of climate change on the biodiversity of Aleppo pine forest in Senalba (Algeria), climate change and biodiversity response in the Niger Delta region, and the effects of forest fires on the biodiversity and the soil characteristics of tropical peatlands in Indonesia. This is a truly interdisciplinary publication, and will benefit all scholars, social movements, practitioners and members of governmental agencies engaged in research and/or executing projects on climate change and biodiversity around the world.Table of ContentsWater Management and Climate Change in the Focus of International Master Programs in Latin America and the Caribbean.- Mangrove Conservation Policies in the Gulf of Guayaquil.- Biodiversity Issues Should be Better Taken into Account in the Energy Transition.- Approaches to Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity Assessment in Belarus.- Community Action for Biodiversity and Forest Conservation and Adaptation to Climate Change in the Wild Coffee Forests (CAFA).- Impact of Climate Change on Sawfly (Suborder: Symphyta) Polinators in Andalusia Region, Spain.- Coffee, Climate and Biodiversity: Understanding the Carbon Stocks of the Shade Coffee Production System of India.- Implications for Biodiversity of Potentially Committed Global Climate Change (from Science and Policy).- Ensuring Co-Benefits for Biodiversity, Climate Change and Sustainable Development.- Sustainable Hydropower: using Ecosystem-based Adaptation to increase local Adaptation Capacity in Brazil.- The Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative as an Adaptive Response to Climate Change.- Saving the Last Endemic-Church Forests in Ethiopia: The Case of Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve.- Factors Affecting Communication and Information Sharing for Water Resource Management in Lake Victoria Basin (LVB).- Climate Sentinels Research Program: Developing Indicators of the Effects of Climate Change on Biodiversity in the Region of New Aquitaine (South West, France).- Introducing Spatio-Temporal Conservation Units: Models for Flexible Optimization of Species Persistence under Climate Change.- The Impact of Climate Change and Variability on Wild Terrestrial Animals in Selected Rural Coastal Regions of Kenya.- Biodiversity Risks for Belarus Connected with the UV Climate Change.- The Impact of Forest Fire on the Biodiversity and the Soil Charactersitics of Tropical Peatland.- Promoting Climate Agenda and Biodiversity Conservation at the Local Level: A Case for Nepal’s Rural and Urban Municipalities.
£116.99
Taylor & Francis Ltd Dragonflies at a Biogeographical Crossroads The
Book SynopsisThis lavishly illustrated book examines the distribution, ecology, conservation status, and biogeography of 176 species of dragonflies in the southern plains of the United States, where twelve ecoregions converge. The topics discussed, such as phenotypic variation and ecology, are applicable and of interest across the United States and much of north America, and will appeal to researchers and dragonfly enthusiasts alike. A series of maps, including a distributional map by specific locality of occurrence, indicate level of documentation and allow the reader to visualize the biogeographical associations of a given species. These maps also encourage citizen scientists to contribute documentation wherever they spend time in the field. Context-driven chapters, including one on the regionâs rich paleontological history, blend environmental history and biogeography, giving the book a fresh perspective on the natural world while providing a rich summary of the odonates.Dragonflies at a Biographical Crossroads: The Odonata of Oklahoma and Complexities Beyond Its Borders will be sought out by dragonfly researchers and enthusiasts, entomologists, amateur naturalists, paleontologists, conservation biologists, educators, regional historians, and those seeking to meld the disciplines of cultural and environmental history with biology. It will also be readily accessible to the lay public. Dragonflies combine the visually stunning with acrobatic fireworks in ways no other insect can hope to combine.Trade ReviewThis book provides a comprehensive review of the occurrence, abundance, conservation status, temporal trends, and some ecological information about odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) in Oklahoma. It is a new contribution to Odonatology and I learned a lot from it. The book represents the most complete collection of information about odonates in Oklahoma, with some intriguing patterns mentioned in the species accounts that will hopefully spur more research into this fascinating, beautiful, and important group of animals.-- Nancy E. McIntyre, Professor & Associate Department Chair, Landscape & Community Ecology, Texas Tech University, USADragonflies at a Biogeographical Crossroads demonstrates how these extraordinary insects can reveal for us the riches of the physical landscape and the human experience. Far more than a scholarly work about dragonflies, and covering terrain and ideas beyond Oklahoma, this is an almanac of history, ecology and conservation from a state too long dismissed as flat and dusty. Among its dragonflies, you will discover the vast biological diversity of Oklahoma and the state’s rightful place in the geography of America. Let this volume set a high standard for insect discovery in other states and regions.-- Bryan Pfeiffer, President of the Dragonfly Society of the Americas, 2018-21This book is a fantastic contribution to the field. Not only does it present a great array of new information, it even presents new ways to present the information. I have never seen a book about the flora or fauna of a state that has as much information as this book contains. I paged through it in awe of the scholarship, thoroughness and even imagination expressed in the pages. The occurrence maps are fantastic, better than any I have ever seen, as they combine specimens, photos and sight records in an easily understandable way. The historical aspect of the county maps and all the history related in the text is also unique to this book. As well, it often deals with taxonomic and other questions that far exceed the borders of the state. So many things about this book are unique! Conservation becomes a more and more important feature of our writing about odonates and other organisms, and this book treats that thoroughly. Finally, we need much more published about the natural history of odonates, and the species accounts in this book contain much of interest in that regard.-- Dennis R. Paulson, Director Emeritus, Slater Museum of Natural History, USABrenda Smith and Michael Patten have succeeded admirably in completing the most thorough treatment of Dragonflies and Damselflies of any state I have seen. This treatise on the Oklahoma fauna includes a series of rich and interesting introductory chapters followed by detailed accounts of each species in the state. This is an impressive compilation and analysis of an especially diverse state that will be useful to anyone wanting to explore dragonflies and damselflies in Oklahoma.-- John C. Abbott, Ph.D., Chief Curator & Director of Museum Research and Collections, University of Alabama Museums, The University of Alabama, USA Dragonflies at a Biogeographical Crossroads is a truly unique and engaging book, absolutely indispensable if you are interested in the odonates of Oklahoma but also of great interest to any student or lover of this amazing group of creatures. One of the themes of the book is "beyond," and it certainly exceeds even lofty expectations in that regard: it is beyond a field guide, beyond just Oklahoma, and beyond just a book about dragonflies (here the title is a little misleading as it includes damselflies as well). The chapter on the ancestors of Oklahoma odonata is simply the most complete history on this group I have read, and the other introductory chapters are equally riveting. The species accounts are like complete research papers for each and every species, with life histories, seasonality and incredible range data, packed with more information than is available almost anywhere else. The treatise on Macromia field identification alone makes buying this book worthwhile! This is a book that will, and should, find its way onto the shelf and into the lap of everyone who is interested in this fascinating group of insects.-- Giff Beaton, naturalist and author, USAThis book provides a comprehensive review of the occurrence, abundance, conservation status, temporal trends, and some ecological information about odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) in Oklahoma. It is a new contribution to Odonatology and I learned a lot from it. The book represents the most complete collection of information about odonates in Oklahoma, with some intriguing patterns mentioned in the species accounts that will hopefully spur more research into this fascinating, beautiful, and important group of animals.-- Nancy E. McIntyre, Professor & Associate Department Chair, Landscape & Community Ecology, Texas Tech University, USADragonflies at a Biogeographical Crossroads demonstrates how these extraordinary insects can reveal for us the riches of the physical landscape and the human experience. Far more than a scholarly work about dragonflies, and covering terrain and ideas beyond Oklahoma, this is an almanac of history, ecology and conservation from a state too long dismissed as flat and dusty. Among its dragonflies, you will discover the vast biological diversity of Oklahoma and the state’s rightful place in the geography of America. Let this volume set a high standard for insect discovery in other states and regions.-- Bryan Pfeiffer, President of the Dragonfly Society of the Americas, 2018-21This book is a fantastic contribution to the field. Not only does it present a great array of new information, it even presents new ways to present the information. I have never seen a book about the flora or fauna of a state that has as much information as this book contains. I paged through it in awe of the scholarship, thoroughness and even imagination expressed in the pages. The occurrence maps are fantastic, better than any I have ever seen, as they combine specimens, photos and sight records in an easily understandable way. The historical aspect of the county maps and all the history related in the text is also unique to this book. As well, it often deals with taxonomic and other questions that far exceed the borders of the state. So many things about this book are unique! Conservation becomes a more and more important feature of our writing about odonates and other organisms, and this book treats that thoroughly. Finally, we need much more published about the natural history of odonates, and the species accounts in this book contain much of interest in that regard.-- Dennis R. Paulson, Director Emeritus, Slater Museum of Natural History, USABrenda Smith and Michael Patten have succeeded admirably in completing the most thorough treatment of Dragonflies and Damselflies of any state I have seen. This treatise on the Oklahoma fauna includes a series of rich and interesting introductory chapters followed by detailed accounts of each species in the state. This is an impressive compilation and analysis of an especially diverse state that will be useful to anyone wanting to explore dragonflies and damselflies in Oklahoma.-- John C. Abbott, Ph.D., Chief Curator & Director of Museum Research and Collections, University of Alabama Museums, The University of Alabama, USA Dragonflies at a Biogeographical Crossroads is a truly unique and engaging book, absolutely indispensable if you are interested in the odonates of Oklahoma but also of great interest to any student or lover of this amazing group of creatures. One of the themes of the book is "beyond," and it certainly exceeds even lofty expectations in that regard: it is beyond a field guide, beyond just Oklahoma, and beyond just a book about dragonflies (here the title is a little misleading as it includes damselflies as well). The chapter on the ancestors of Oklahoma odonata is simply the most complete history on this group I have read, and the other introductory chapters are equally riveting. The species accounts are like complete research papers for each and every species, with life histories, seasonality and incredible range data, packed with more information than is available almost anywhere else. The treatise on Macromia field identification alone makes buying this book worthwhile! This is a book that will, and should, find its way onto the shelf and into the lap of everyone who is interested in this fascinating group of insects.-- Giff Beaton, naturalist and author, USATable of ContentsIntroduction. History of Oklahoma Odonatology. Oklahoma Geography and Habitats. Biogeography of Oklahoma Odonata. The Odonata Fossil History of Oklahoma and the Region. Environmental History of Oklahoma. Conservation of Oklahoma Odonata. Seasonality of Oklahoma Odonata. Introduction to Species Accounts. Species Accounts. Zygoptera – Damselflies. Calopterygidae – Broad-winged Damsels. Lestidae – Spreadwings. Coenagrionidae – Pond Damsels. Anisoptera – Dragonflies. Petaluridae – Petaltails. Aeshnidae – Darners. Gomphidae – Clubtails. Cordulegastridae – Spiketails. Macromiidae – Cruisers. Corduliidae – Emeralds. Libellulidae – Skimmers. Appendices. A. Synonyms, Dubious Records, and Hypothetical Species. B. List of Specimen Collections, Data Sources, and Record Contributors. C. Additional Resources. D. Oklahoma Odonata Species Totals by Era. E. First State Records of Oklahoma Odonata. F. Supplementary Tables. G. Reference Maps. Literature Cited. Endnotes. Index
£31.34
Johns Hopkins University Press Mammalogy
Book SynopsisA completely revised and updated edition of the leading mammalogy textbook, featuring color photographs throughout and a new streamlined structure for enhanced use in courses. There are more than 6,400 species in the class Mammalia, including the blue whalethe largest animal that has ever livedand the pygmy shrew, which weighs little more than a dime. Such diversity among mammals has allowed them to play critical roles in every ecosystem, whether marine, freshwater, alpine, tundra, forest, or desert. Reflecting the expertise and perspective of five leading mammalogists, the fifth edition of Mammalogy: Adaptation, Diversity, Ecology significantly updates taxonomy, adds a new introductory chapter on the science of mammalogy, and highlights several recently described species. To enhance its appeal to students, textual material has been reduced, consolidated, and streamlined without sacrificing breadth or depth of coverage. The fifth edition includes for the first time, stunning color phTable of ContentsPrefacePART 1. IntroductionChapter 1 The Science of MammalogyChapter 2 Methods for Studying MammalsChapter 3 Phylogeny and Diversification of MammalsChapter 4 Evolution and Dental CharacteristicsChapter 5 BiogeographyPART 2. Structure and FunctionChapter 6 Integument, Support, and MovementChapter 7 Modes of FeedingChapter 8 Environmental AdaptationsChapter 9 ReproductionPART 3. Adaptive Radiation and DiversityChapter 10 Orders: Monotremata and MarsupialsChapter 11 Orders: Macroscelidea, Afrosoricida, Tubulidentata Chapter 12 Orders: Proboscidea, Hyracoidea, SireniaChapter 13 Orders: Pilosa and CingulataChapter 14 Orders: Scandentia and DermopteraChapter 15 Order: PrimatesChapter 16 Orders: Rodentia and LagomorphaChapter 17 Order: EulipotyphlaChapter 18 Orders: Carnivora and PholidotaChapter 19 Orders: Perissodactyla and CetartiodactylaChapter 20 Infraorder: CetaceaChapter 21 Order: ChiropteraPART 4. Behavior and EcologyChapter 22 Sexual Selection, Parental Care, and Mating SystemsChapter 23 Social Behavior and CommunicationChapter 24 Movement Patterns and Spatial RelationshipsChapter 25 Populations and Life HistoryChapter 26 Community EcologyPART 5. Special TopicsChapter 27 Parasites and Zoonotic DiseasesChapter 28 ConservationGlossaryReferencesCreditsIndex
£88.40
Whittles Publishing Beautiful Beasts Beautiful Lands
Book SynopsisA critique of modern conservation in the face of climate and biodiversity emergencies. It describes the author's journey from nature lover to conservationist
£18.04
Vintage Publishing An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal the
Book Synopsis**Winner of the 2023 Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize**Discover the world as you've never seen it before - through the eyes of animals.'Immersive and mind-blowing' Peter Wohlleben, author of The Hidden Life of TreesThe Earth teems with sights and textures, sounds and vibrations, smells and tastes, electric and magnetic fields. But every animal is enclosed within its own unique sensory bubble, perceiving only a tiny sliver of this world.In An Immense World, Ed Yong coaxes us beyond the confines of our own senses, welcoming us into previously unfathomable dimensions - the world as it is truly perceived by other animals. Showing us that in order to understand our world we don't need to travel to other places; we need to see through other eyes.A NEW YORK TIMES, GUARDIAN, ECONOMIST, SPECTATOR, TIMES LITERARY SUPPLEMENT and NEW STATESMAN BOOK OF THE YEAR**Winner of 2023 Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Nonfiction**'Suffused with magic' Siddhartha Mukherjee, author of The Song of the Cell'A book that prompts awe at the world around us' Sunday TimesSunday Times bestseller, July 2023Trade ReviewStanding out even during a recent golden age of nature writing, Ed Yong dazzles with a deeply considered exploration of the many modes of sensory perception that life has evolved to navigate the world, written with exhilarating freshness * Winner of 2023 Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Nonfiction *[A] wondrous, lustrous, captivating book: Ed Yong's An Immense World... left me awed and stunned - and revolted by humanity's destructive pride and planetary abuse * Times Literary Supplement, *Books of the Year* *Full of extraordinary discoveries... an encyclopaedic, rigorously researched journey... recasts the world in breath-taking, bewildering immensity * Daily Telegraph *A hymn to the wonders of evolution... fascinating * Mail on Sunday *Yong succeeds in bringing a sense of grandeur to life on every scale * Financial Times *Not just a study of the myriad wonders of the natural world - though wondrous they are - but also a panoramic, complex portrait of the sensory capacities that underpin a multitude of life. ... In uncovering all this, Yong also shows why we should give more thought to our place in the world. * New Statesman, *Best Books of 2022* *An Immense World is an exploration of the ways in which our fellow creatures navigate, understand and interact with one another and their environment through senses. ... The result is so mind-boggling, it's tempting to say 'forget looking in deep space for astonishment'. But let's not do that. Let's continue searching there while also paying better attention to the miracles right under our noses. Yong's marvellous book shows us how. * Spectator, *Best Books of 2022* *This book lifts the shroud on previously invisible dimensions of the world itself * Economist, *Books of the Year* *A magic well of surprising, enlightening discoveries about the sensory worlds of other species... A brilliant book, marvellous and mesmerizing -- Jennifer Ackerman, author of The Genius of BirdsA stunning achievement - steeped in science but suffused with magic -- Siddhartha Mukherjee, author The Emperor of All MaladiesA delight... it prompts a radical rethink about the limits of what we know - what the world is, even. It is quite a book. And, I felt, putting it down, quite a world * Sunday Times *I love this book. Reading it is a delightful sensory experience... I truly enjoyed Yong's adventures in Wonderland! * Gaia Vince, author of Transcendence *A journal of discovery and animal magic, a sensory exploration that is a joy to read -- Susan Orlean, author of The Orchid ThiefMagnificent - an unbelievably immersive and mind-blowing account of how other animals experience our world -- Peter Wohlleben, author of The Hidden Life of Trees and The Inner Life of AnimalsLike stepping into a new kind of Alice in Wonderland. The perfect mixture of revelation, curiosity, science, beautiful prose and buckets full of wonders -- Andrea Wulf, author of The Invention of Nature: Alexander von Humboldt’s New WorldA cornucopia of wonders... a fascinating reminder of the humbling truth that most of what happens among life forms on Earth is beyond our ken -- David Quammen, author of SpilloverAn expansive, constantly revelatory exploration of the biosphere's sensorium... Ed Yong is my favourite contemporary science writer -- William Gibson, author of Neuromancer and The PeripheralEvery page finds the reader mouthing quiet whoa's, as the world she thought she knew opens out into a hundred others, improbable, strange, and fabulous. -- Mary Roach, author of Fuzz and StiffAn Immense World took my hand and brought me on a journey I'll never forget. After reading this book, I'll never look at our planet the same way again -- Clint Smith, author of How the Word is PassedA whirlwind tour of animal perceptual abilities. A magnificent book * Frans de Waal, author of Different: Gender Through the Eyes of a Primatologist *
£10.44
Icon Books The Life Cycle
Book Synopsis''A gripping read for anyone who cares about what we''re doing to the planet and how we can change it'' DAVID SHUKMAN, FORMER BBC NEWS SCIENCE EDITOR''Searing observations focused on our need to protect biodiversity - A tour de force'' SIR TIM SMIT OBE, CO-FOUNDER OF THE EDEN PROJECT''An informative, uplifting and truly important book'' JONATHON PORRITT, AUTHOR AND CAMPAIGNEROne woman''s journey through South America - and the devastating story of our planet''s disappearing biodiversityPedalling hard for thirteen months, eco adventurer Kate Rawles cycled the length of the Andes on an eccentric bicycle she built herself. The Life Cycle charts her mission to find out why biodiversity is so important, what''s happening to it, and what can be done to protect it.From the Pacific Ocean to rainforests and salt flats, Kate learns that armadillos can cross rivers by holding their breath, that Colombia has more species of birds than North America and Europe combined, and that in threatening ecos
£10.79
Acres U.S.A., Inc Compost Revolution: Natural Growing with Worm
Book Synopsis
£18.99
HarperCollins Publishers British Wild Flowers
Book SynopsisA complete photoguide to all the wild flowers of Britain to accompany the bestselling Complete British WIldlife.With over 1,000 main entries covering wildflowers, shrubs, aquatic plants, grasses, sedges and rushes Collins Complete Guide to British Wild Flowers is a definitive photographic reference guide for flower enthusiasts.Helpful information about habitats of wild flowers and useful tips to aid identification are included along with a botanical hotspots section detailing 100 rarer species. Comparison pages show different leaf shapes and flower clusters to enable quick and easy navigation to the right section of the book to make your identification. Detailed information on which places to visit in Britain particularly rich in flower species are also included, along with individual maps showing where each species can be found.This is the essential photographic field guide of the best wild flowers Britain has to offer.Trade Review'Packs in lots of well-chosen detail in compact form'British Wildlife Magazine 'An ideal first flower guide'Kew magazine
£15.29
HarperCollins Publishers Collins Complete Irish Wildlife
Book SynopsisThe essential photographic guide to Ireland''s wildlife.Collins Complete Irish Wildlife describes almost all the mammals, birds, fish and butterflies of Ireland likely to be encountered by the keen amateur naturalist, as well as all the common and widespread flowers, trees and shrubs. With over 1,000 colour photographs, this comprehensive guide illustrates every species described. The introduction by Ireland''s best known wildlife expert, Derek Mooney, sets out where you can find the best of Irish wildlife.Reptiles and amphibians, insects and spiders, molluscs and other invertebrates are also featured, and species are organised taxonomically. Each section is coded with a symbol for quick reference and species are grouped according to natural relationships and similarities. Collins Complete Irish Wildlife is a book no nature lover should travel without.Trade ReviewPraise for the Collins Complete series: 'Wonderfully descriptive photographs'BBC Wildlife 'Packs in lots of well-chosen detail in compact form'British Wildlife ‘A bookshelf essential’The Field
£17.99
HarperCollins Publishers British Butterflies and Moths Collins Complete
Book SynopsisA comprehensive and fully illustrated guide, this book is the definitive photographic reference guide for anyone interested in butterflies and moths found in Britain and Ireland.Every species that occurs regularly in Britain and Ireland is included, along with a section dealing with the rarest of the rare' extinct species or very rare immigrants. There follows the main section of the book, which covers our larger moths; every species that occurs regularly in Britain and Ireland is mentioned.Trade ReviewPraise for Paul Sterry: 'Wonderfully descriptive photographs'BBC Wildlife ‘Whether you are a keen amateur or someone with a passing interest, this book will satisfy your needs.’The Sea 'Packs in lots of well-chosen detail in compact form'British Wildlife Magazine ‘A bookshelf essential’The Field
£17.99
HarperCollins Publishers Ecology and Natural History Collins New
Book SynopsisEcology is the science of ecosystems, of habitats, of our world and its future. In the latest New Naturalist, ecologist David M. Wilkinson explains key ideas of this crucial branch of science, using Britain's ecosystems to illustrate each point.The science of ecology underlies most of the key issues facing humanity, from the loss of biodiversity to sustainable agriculture, to the effects of climate change and the spread of pandemics. In this accessible and timely addition to the New Naturalist series, ecologist David M. Wilkinson introduces some of the key ideas of this science, using examples from British natural history. Extensively illustrated with photographs of the species and habitats that can be seen in the British countryside, this book shows how the observations of field naturalists link into our wider understanding of the working of the natural world.Investigating ecosystems across the British Isles, from the Scottish and Welsh mountains to the woodlands of southern England aTrade Review‘All books in the New Naturalist series deal with ecology and natural history in one way or another, but this is the first to take ecology itself as the main theme. It provides a broad but comprehensive overview of the subject … The author has a pleasant ‘storytelling’ style, well suited to the task; this is a book that could, I think, be read and understood by anyone with a keen interest. I’ve bought plenty of books in this series over the years but this is the first for a while that I’ve been inspired to read through, cover to cover, within a few days.’ Ian Carter, British Birds ‘Gives a real feel of what ecologists actually have to do, and how their methods and conclusions are changing … Hasbeen done very well, combining the scientific knowledge intoan interesting story … An excellent book’ The Linnean Praise for David M. Wilkinson ‘Wilkinson offers answers as good as science currently can deliver’ Science ‘This is a fascinating book. Every ecologist will profit from reading it’ Basic and Applied Ecology ‘Extraordinarily readable and accessible … Examines some of the very basic questions underlying ecology in its widest sense’ British Ecological Society Bulletin Praise for the New Naturalist series ‘Taken either individually or as a whole, they are one of the proudest achievements of modern publishing’ The Sunday Times ‘The series is an amazing achievement’ The Times Literary Supplement
£52.00
HarperCollins Publishers Ecology and Natural History Collins New
Book SynopsisEcology is the science of ecosystems, of habitats, of our world and its future. In the latest New Naturalist, ecologist David M. Wilkinson explains key ideas of this crucial branch of science, using Britain's ecosystems to illustrate each point.The science of ecology underlies most of the key issues facing humanity, from the loss of biodiversity to sustainable agriculture, to the effects of climate change and the spread of pandemics. In this accessible and timely addition to the New Naturalist series, ecologist David M. Wilkinson introduces some of the key ideas of this science, using examples from British natural history. Extensively illustrated with photographs of the species and habitats that can be seen in the British countryside, this book shows how the observations of field naturalists link into our wider understanding of the working of the natural world.Investigating ecosystems across the British Isles, from the Scottish and Welsh mountains to the woodlands of southern England aTrade Review‘All books in the New Naturalist series deal with ecology and natural history in one way or another, but this is the first to take ecology itself as the main theme. It provides a broad but comprehensive overview of the subject … The author has a pleasant ‘storytelling’ style, well suited to the task; this is a book that could, I think, be read and understood by anyone with a keen interest. I’ve bought plenty of books in this series over the years but this is the first for a while that I’ve been inspired to read through, cover to cover, within a few days.’ Ian Carter, British Birds ‘Gives a real feel of what ecologists actually have to do, and how their methods and conclusions are changing … Hasbeen done very well, combining the scientific knowledge intoan interesting story … An excellent book’ The Linnean Praise for David M. Wilkinson ‘Wilkinson offers answers as good as science currently can deliver’ Science ‘This is a fascinating book. Every ecologist will profit from reading it’ Basic and Applied Ecology ‘Extraordinarily readable and accessible … Examines some of the very basic questions underlying ecology in its widest sense’ British Ecological Society Bulletin Praise for the New Naturalist series ‘Taken either individually or as a whole, they are one of the proudest achievements of modern publishing’ The Sunday Times ‘The series is an amazing achievement’ The Times Literary Supplement
£29.75
HarperCollins Publishers Uplands and Birds Collins New Naturalist Library
Book SynopsisIan Newton, author of Farming and Birds and Bird Migration returns to the New Naturalist series with a long awaited look at the uplands and its birds.The uplands of Britain are unique landscapes created by grazing animals, primarily livestock. The soils and blanket bogs of the uplands are also the largest stores of carbon in the UK, and 70% of the country's drinking water comes from the uplands. It's a significant region, not least to the multitudes of bird species that hunt, forage and nest there.Once again, Ian Newton demonstrates his mastery of the subject matter at hand, in this beautifully illustrated, authoritative addition to the New Naturalist series.Trade ReviewPraise for Uplands and Birds ‘Everything one would expect from one of the UK’s greatest ornithologists; breadth, depth and clarity … This is a monumental book, and you should read it’ Mark Avery ‘lan Newton gives an in-depth look at all the upland habitats, from bogs to conifer forests, and the wide number of species found in each one. There are numerous colour photos of habitats and birds, with many taken by folk he has met on his travels over his long history of working in this field. Yet another classic in this well-loved series’ Bird Watching magazine Praise for Ian Newton: ‘A masterly and wide-ranging account of the consequences for bird populations of the recent shifts in British farming practices. This book … deserves to be widely read, including, one hopes, by the policy makers of the future.’ BTO News ‘This book is a landmark edition in an already outstanding natural history series, and will make an extremely valuable and treasured addition to the library of anyone serious about birds and their biology.’ Seabirds ‘Truly outstanding – the product of a lifelong inquiry into the annual travels of birds.’ Guardian ‘The New Naturalist series strikes gold with this insight into ultimate avian journeys.’ BBC Wildlife ‘… a work of authority.’ The Daily Telegraph
£52.00
HarperCollins Publishers Uplands and Birds Collins New Naturalist Library
Book SynopsisIan Newton, author of Farming and Birds and Bird Migration returns to the New Naturalist series with a long awaited look at the uplands and its birds.The uplands of Britain are unique landscapes created by grazing animals, primarily livestock. The soils and blanket bogs of the uplands are also the largest stores of carbon in the UK, and 70% of the country's drinking water comes from the uplands. It's a significant region, not least to the multitudes of bird species that hunt, forage and nest there.Once again, Ian Newton demonstrates his mastery of the subject matter at hand, in this beautifully illustrated, authoritative addition to the New Naturalist series.Trade ReviewPraise for Uplands and Birds ‘Everything one would expect from one of the UK’s greatest ornithologists; breadth, depth and clarity … This is a monumental book, and you should read it’ Mark Avery ‘lan Newton gives an in-depth look at all the upland habitats, from bogs to conifer forests, and the wide number of species found in each one. There are numerous colour photos of habitats and birds, with many taken by folk he has met on his travels over his long history of working in this field. Yet another classic in this well-loved series’ Bird Watching magazine Praise for Ian Newton: ‘A masterly and wide-ranging account of the consequences for bird populations of the recent shifts in British farming practices. This book … deserves to be widely read, including, one hopes, by the policy makers of the future.’ BTO News ‘This book is a landmark edition in an already outstanding natural history series, and will make an extremely valuable and treasured addition to the library of anyone serious about birds and their biology.’ Seabirds ‘Truly outstanding – the product of a lifelong inquiry into the annual travels of birds.’ Guardian ‘The New Naturalist series strikes gold with this insight into ultimate avian journeys.’ BBC Wildlife ‘… a work of authority.’ The Daily Telegraph
£29.75
HarperCollins Publishers Orchard Winner of the Richard Jefferies Society
Book SynopsisBy the Wainwright-Conservation-Prize-winning author of RebirdingSpend a year in an orchard, celebrating its imperilled, overlooked abundance of life. England''s ancient orchards, collaborations between people and nature, are sources of hope for the future. Protecting them promises a far richer England for the centuries to come, for wildlife and for us.As the seasons turn, a wealth of animals and plants are revealed: Bumble and solitary bees apartment-hunting in April; spotted flycatchers migrating in May; redstarts, hedgehogs and owls nesting in June; an explosion of life in the summer and the harvest and homespun cider-making in the autumn. And all throughout the year, the orchard's human and animal inhabitants work together, creating one of the richest ecosystems left in Britain.Explore this unique habitat throughout the course of a year, and marvel at the beauty and strength of nature.Trade ReviewPraise for Orchard ‘Enchanting’ Daily Mail ‘Vivid [and] full of unexpected revelations … Orchard has much to offer in its observations of wildlife’ John Carey, Sunday Times ‘A wonderful new book from Benedict Macdonald and Nicholas Gates, veterans of the BBC’s Springwatch series … moves lyrically and vividly through one calendar year in an old Herefordshire orchard … Particularly moving’ New Statesman ‘From spores to sparrowhawks, there is never a dull moment. Lyrically written, Orchard is a love-letter to its jumbled “magical chaos” and a shining example of the things that can be achieved when humans come to work in balance and in harmony with nature’ BBC Wildlife ‘From slug-hunting toads and snuffling hedgehogs to percussion-playing spiders, woodpecker architects and zombie hoverflies, this wonderful book weaves together fascinating stories of the wildlife that lives in an old organic orchard … Excellent … I would recommend Orchard wholeheartedly’ Kathy Bishop, The Seasonal Table, Countryfile magazine ‘This book looks at an ancient English orchard throughout the course of a year, focusing on the wide range of wildlife that it supports … writing with a lyrical richness that beautifully evokes this unique setting … The result is a book that can be enjoyed on a lot of different levels from professional conservationists, to the most casual of everyday birdwatchers. Passionate and moving, this is highly recommended’ Birdwatch magazine ‘A rich and textured account of a year in this neglected habitat’ Stephen Moss ‘Enjoy this precious habitat and all its glories via this coffee-table worthy book that offers food for thought’ RSPB magazine ‘This beautiful exploration of natural history is an elegy for a disappearing way of life … captivating’ The Garden magazine
£9.49
HarperCollins Publishers Shieldbugs
Book SynopsisAn eagerly anticipated addition to the New Naturalist series.The shieldbug is an amazing and beautiful species, rich with diversity in shape, form, size, life history, ecology, physiology and behaviour. But they are not commonly known, outside of specialist circles.Richard Jones' groundbreaking New Naturalist volume on shieldbugs encourages those enthusiasts who would otherwise be put off by the, to date, rather technical literature that has dominated the field, providing a comprehensive natural history of this fascinating and beautiful group of insects.Trade ReviewPraise for New Naturalist Shieldbugs:‘Informative and excellent … Very readable and will appeal to all amateur naturalists as well as scientists. I would recommend anyone with an interest in Shieldbugs or insects in general, to get a copy. This one will be added to my book shelf, and is already “well-thumbed”!’ Pauline Rutherford FBNA, British Naturalists Association Praise for Richard Jones’ previous New Naturalist, Beetles: ‘Highly recommended for the bookshelf of anyone wishing to be better acquainted with these remarkable insects.’ British Wildlife Praise for the New Naturalist series: ‘Taken either individually or as a whole, they are one of the proudest achievements of modern publishing’ The Sunday Times ‘The series is an amazing achievement’ The Times Literary Supplement ‘The books are glorious to own’ Independent
£52.00
HarperCollins Publishers Shieldbugs
Book SynopsisAn eagerly anticipated addition to the New Naturalist series.The shieldbug is an amazing and beautiful species, rich with diversity in shape, form, size, life history, ecology, physiology and behaviour. But they are not commonly known, outside of specialist circles.Richard Jones' groundbreaking New Naturalist volume on shieldbugs encourages those enthusiasts who would otherwise be put off by the, to date, rather technical literature that has dominated the field, providing a comprehensive natural history of this fascinating and beautiful group of insects.Trade ReviewPraise for New Naturalist Shieldbugs:‘Informative and excellent … Very readable and will appeal to all amateur naturalists as well as scientists. I would recommend anyone with an interest in Shieldbugs or insects in general, to get a copy. This one will be added to my book shelf, and is already “well-thumbed”!’ Pauline Rutherford FBNA, British Naturalists Association Praise for Richard Jones’ previous New Naturalist, Beetles: ‘Highly recommended for the bookshelf of anyone wishing to be better acquainted with these remarkable insects.’ British Wildlife Praise for the New Naturalist series: ‘Taken either individually or as a whole, they are one of the proudest achievements of modern publishing’ The Sunday Times ‘The series is an amazing achievement’ The Times Literary Supplement ‘The books are glorious to own’ Independent
£29.75
HarperCollins Publishers Wild Isles The book of the BBC TV series
Book SynopsisThis beautifully illustrated overview of the wildlife of the British Isles showcases the diversity of our plant and animal life.Wild Isles is a celebration of the wildlife found on a relatively modest collection of islands positioned at a latitude so northerly to be unattractive to many animals and plants. Despite these unpromising foundations, the islands of Britain and Ireland, together with more than 6,000 lesser islets that make up our archipelago, contain some of the most diverse, beautiful and wildlife-rich landscapes and seas on our planet.This book will explore the fascinating relationships within and between species who make their home on our beautiful isles.Each chapter focuses on a particular kind of wild space. Britain and Ireland are dominated by a wide variety of grasslands from lowland water meadows to upland moors, and we will see how these human-shaped, semi-natural landscapes thrum with insect, bird and mammal life. Life requires water to flourish, and streams and rivTrade Review‘Filled with glorious photography showcasing the biodiversity of our archipelago’ Radio Times Praise for Patrick Barkham 'Barkham is an outstanding author' CHRIS PACKHAM 'Outstanding nature journalism' HORATIO CLARE 'A heralded nature writer' THE TIMES 'A lovely, fluid writer' DAILY MAIL
£22.50
HarperCollins Publishers Where the Seals Sing Exploring the Hidden Lives
Book SynopsisThere are fewer grey seals in the world than endangered African elephants, but the British Isles host almost half of this global population. Every year these charismatic animals, with their expressive eyes and whiskers more sensitive than our fingertips, haul out on our shores to breed and raise their pups.As graceful in the sea as they might seem clumsy on land, grey seals have visited our shores and enriched our culture for centuries. Yet we still know relatively little about these captivating animals. As Susan Richardson journeys to the crags and crevices of the coast, she explores the mysteries and mythologies of seals, learning not just how they live but also how we ought to live with them.PRAISE FOR SUSAN RICHARDSONCut and precise, archaic and innovative, transcendent and in-the-moment, [Richardson] sees the life of the sea as a mirror of ourselves, and vice versa: always changing, always the same Vital, glorious and salutary'PHILIP HOARE, AUTHOR OF LEVIATHAN[Richardson] writes Trade ReviewPraise for Susan Richardson 'Cut and precise, archaic and innovative, transcendent and in-the-moment, [Susan Richardson] sees the life of the sea as a mirror of ourselves, and vice versa: always changing, always the same … Vital, glorious and salutary ' Philip Hoare, author of Leviathan ‘[Richardson] writes in prehensile language, capable of grasping something vast, ancient, chthonic: the Earth in must. Jay Griffiths, author of Wild ‘[Richardson] shows how art and writing can furnish both beautiful and challenging reflections on our relationship with animals … Precise and playful; rhapsodic and rebellious’ Andy Brown ‘Sparkling’ Margaret Elphinstone ‘Richardson’s voice swoops – passionate, ribald, funny, fierce – taking you up, on exhilarating flight, out from the cage of the everyday mind.’ Eleanor O’Hanlon, author of Eyes of the Wild ‘[Richardson] balances observation with “unseeing”, science with shamanism and myth’ Chris Kinsey ‘Susan Richardson beautifully marries the landscape of the polar regions with their – and her own – emotional topography.’ Sara Wheeler
£18.00
HarperCollins Publishers The Secret Life of Mushrooms
Book SynopsisBig Cat Phonics for Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised has been developed in collaboration with Wandle Learning Trust and Little Sutton Primary School. It comprises classroom resources to support the SSP programme and a range of phonic readers that together provide a consistent and highly effective approach to teaching phonics.
£8.57
Oxford University Press Inc Orca
Book SynopsisSince the release of the documentary Blackfish in 2013, millions around the world have focused on the plight of the orca, the most profitable and controversial display animal in history. Yet, until now, no historical account has explained how we came to care about killer whales in the first place. Drawing on interviews, official records, private archives, and his own family history, Jason M. Colby tells the exhilarating and often heartbreaking story of how people came to love the ocean''s greatest predator. Historically reviled as dangerous pests, killer whales were dying by the hundreds, even thousands, by the 1950s--the victims of whalers, fishermen, and even the US military. In the Pacific Northwest, fishermen shot them, scientists harpooned them, and the Canadian government mounted a machine gun to eliminate them. But that all changed in 1965, when Seattle entrepreneur Ted Griffin became the first person to swim and perform with a captive killer whale. The show proved wildly popular, and he began capturing and selling others, including Sea World''s first Shamu.Over the following decade, live display transformed views of Orcinus orca. The public embraced killer whales as charismatic and friendly, while scientists enjoyed their first access to live orcas. In the Pacific Northwest, these captive encounters reshaped regional values and helped drive environmental activism, including Greenpeace''s anti-whaling campaigns. Yet even as Northwesterners taught the world to love whales, they came to oppose their captivity and to fight for the freedom of a marine predator that had become a regional icon. This is the definitive history of how the feared and despised killer became the beloved orca--and what that has meant for our relationship with the ocean and its creatures.Trade ReviewDetailed, determinedly even-handed and often fascinating. * Lucy Atkins, Times Literary Supplement *Jason Colby's Orca...left me with feelings of gratitude for his hard work, admiration and envy for his skills as a historian and storyteller, and also some new hopes about the possibilities of writing about animals and history.....The characters, human and cetacean, are drawn with extraordinary empathy and care, and their experiences, hopes, and worries, as told by Colby, are powerful....The photographs, of which there are more than forty, are both exceptional and thoughtfully curated. * Nigel Rothfels, Humanimalia *Timely ... Over forty oral history interviews, added to substantial archival and secondary research, allow Colby to weave a history that highlights the agency and complexities of orca capture and captivity ... This engaging book should garner a wide audience of academics and orca enthusiasts. The clear narrative and interesting stories moreover make it suitable for undergraduate courses in both Pacific Northwest history and environmental history * Jen Corrinne Brown, American Historical Review *Colby is an easy and engaging writer... He utilizes extensive interviews he conducted with many of the most colorful and important people involved in the story: those who captured whales, the promoters, fishermen, scientists, and the citizens and politicians who became involved in the fight to halt the capture. * Carmel Finley, Journal of American History *This is an affecting book, personal and political all at once, and written by a scholar who has worked hard to recover and relay painful tales of the wild orcas that encountered humans and the humans that did the encountering. Nearly all those meetings began in panic and pain, most of it the whales', though some of it that of the men who came to believe they were doing the wrong thing wresting these breathtaking animals from their world, to deliver them to our own, which has been changed by the resulting episodes of captivity and captivation. * D. Graham Burnett, author of The Sounding of the Whale *This fascinating history reveals what happens when humans became captivated by captive orcas. Colby poignantly locates the very origins of conservation in the tense, tender, and tragic relationships between humans and cetaceans. This finely textured social history of the Pacific Northwest opens up the story of how 'killer whales', once cast as deadly pests * became popular attractions and emotional, intelligent 'orcas'.Daniel Bender, author of The Animal Game: Searching for Wildness at the American Zoo *With Orca, Jason Colby takes readers on a riveting journey. In a matter of decades, the Pacific Northwest's killer whales traveled from despised vermin to regional sweethearts. Their emotional passage revealed the true wildcard of wildlife management: navigating the swirling opinions of human populations. A timely book, Orca brings history to bear on a fraught relationship between two apex predators. Colby traces the rise in human affection for the whales but also the emergence of a cruel realization as audiences cheered captives' performances in aquariums across the globe. Love and fandom could kill and maim as efficiently as fear and contempt. In the end, it's unclear whether orcas benefited from the connection they forged with people. * Jon Coleman, author of Vicious: Wolves and Men in America *Killer whales, or orcas, the apex marine predators, were once widely feared as dangerous vermin and were shot on sight. Yet over the past fifty years, a sea change in attitudes towards this remarkable animal took place, and today the species is a revered and cherished global icon of the wild marine environment. In this compelling book, Jason Colby chronicles this transition in our relationship with the killer whale and tells an enthralling story complete with drama and excitement. It is sure to be an important addition to the libraries of natural historians and whale enthusiasts alike. * John Ford, Pacific Biological Station, Fisheries and Oceans Canada *Colby shines a light on how little we understand of these magnificent creatures. His book gives a glimpse into a mysterious yet strangely familiar world, brought to life in a story that's tragic, heartbreaking, and finally hopeful. * Foreword Reviews (starred review) *A good choice for serious fans of Pacific Northwest and marine history. * Kirkus *A revealing look at how the human view of orcas has changed... Colby persuasively contends that, despite legitimate concerns popularized by the 2013 documentary Blackfish, about the effects of captivity on orcas, the animals avoided extinction because their presence in accessible public venues enabled people to relate to them... Colby has produced an originally argued and accessibly jargon-free consideration of a hot-button animal conservation issue. * Publishers Weekly *Killer whales, also known as orcas, are idolized, loved, and even revered. Such sentiments, however, have not always been held toward this species, as historian Jason Colby reveals in his new book, Orca... Colby does an excellent job of framing these events within the larger environmental movement of the time, as well as placing them within the context of the nationalism that was spreading on both sides of the U.S.-Canadian border at the time." * Robin W. Baird, Science *[Told] with the depth and passion the topic deserves. * Lynda V. Mapes, Seattle Times *Immersive and dramatic... Colby demonstrates the speed at which societal attitudes can also shift the baseline of our expectations. In this age of extinction, with ongoing changes in ocean chemistry and physics, it is the potential for a sea change in public attitude that presents hope. * Sascha Hooker, Nature *An exceptional book and a significant contribution to the conservation of killer whales, Orca brings together a wealth of information and tells the stories of the captive whales and the people who pursued, cared for, and studied them - and ultimately fought for their freedom... It instantly takes its place as one of the best books ever written about the interactions between killer whales and settler society on the coastlines of B.C. and Washington State. It should be read by every whale enthusiast, naturalist, fishing guide, graduate student, researcher, marine resource manager, and politician on the Pacific coast. * Anna Hall, Ormsby Review *It is a story not just of the orca business, but also of the evolution of Americans' relationship to the oceans and marine life-the growth of marine parks parallels the shift from an extractive approach to the ocean, as mainly a source of fish, to a recreational one. It intersects, too, with the birth of the modern environmental movement in the 1960s and 70s. * Rachel Riederer, New Republic *[Colby] has produced an exhaustive, nuanced, essential account of the captures, unearthing a forgotten bit of Northwest history. * Nancy Macdonald, Literary Review of Canada *A riveting behind-the-scenes 'tell all,' told from the perspectives of the individuals that witnessed this important period in our history. This book is a historical account of how an industry formed, nearly destroying the very commodity on which it depended, coupled with an infusion of science that helped us to better understand killer whale life history. Colby retells a tragic yet sobering story of the good and dark sides of the delicate relationship between humans and other sentient beings. * Eric L. Walters, Journal of Mammalogy *An exhaustively researched and well-written account. * Paul Brown, Resurgence & Ecologist *An engaging but in-depth history...Orca is an exciting new offering at the intersection between histories of the display of live cetaceans, which generally focus on the environmental movement and its pushback against keeping captive dolphins and orcas, and histories of the modern commercial whaling industry, which generally focus purely on the harvesting of larger whales….The book is both an intensely local history of the Pacific Northwest in the late twentieth century and also a more global history of human relationships with large predators and animals in captivity.….Colby provides an exhaustive account of changing perceptions of killer whales and how this related to the development of the environmental movement into which they were embedded, all over the span of just a couple of decades. * Jakobina Arch, Environmental History *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. "The Most Terrible Jaws Afloat" 2. The Old Northwest 3. Griffin's Quest 4. Murray Newman and Moby Doll 5. Namu's Journey 6. A Boy and His Whale 7. Fishing for Orcas 8. Skana and the Hippie 9. The Scores at Pender Harbor 10. Supply and Demand 11. The White Whale 12. Penn Cove Roundup 13. Whaling in the New Northwest 14. Big Government and Big Business 15. The Legend of Mike Bigg 16. "All hell broke loose" 17. New Frontiers 18. Haida's Song 19. The Legacy of Capture Epilogue Acknowledgements Notes Bibliography Index
£18.49
Oxford University Press Inc The Amazon
Book SynopsisThe Amazon is a land of superlatives. The complex ecosystem covers an area about the size of the continental U.S. The Amazon River discharges 57 million gallons of water per second--in two hours, this would be enough to supply all of New York City''s 7.5 million residents with water for a year. Its flora and fauna are abundant. Approximately one of every four flowering plant species on earth resides in the Amazon. A single Amazonian river may contain more fish species than all the rivers in Europe combined. It is home to the world''s largest anteater, armadillo, freshwater turtle, and spider, as well as the largest rodent (which weighs over 200 lbs.), catfish (250 lbs.), and alligator (more than half a ton). The rainforest, which contains approximately 390 billion trees, plays a vital role in stabilizing the global climate by absorbing massive amounts of carbon dioxide--or releasing it into the atmosphere if the trees are destroyed. Severe droughts in both Brazil and Southeast Asia have been linked to Amazonian deforestation, as have changing rainfall patterns in the U.S., Europe, and China. The Amazon also serves as home to millions of people. Approximately seventy tribes of isolated and uncontacted people are concentrated in the western Amazon, completely dependent on the land and river. These isolated groups have been described as the most marginalized peoples in the western hemisphere, with no voice in the decisions made about their futures and the fate of their forests. In this addition to the What Everyone Needs to Know series, ecologist and conservation expert, Mark J. Plotkin, who has spent 40 years studying Amazonia, its peoples, flora, and fauna. The Amazon offers an engaging overview of this irreplaceable ecosystem and the challenges it faces.Trade ReviewThere is a lot to learn, and value, from this guide, by an expert immersed in the subject. * Harvard Magazine *One can think of the broad themes of the book as scenes on a vast tapestry and the responses to the 67 questions as the threads used by Plotkin to weave the marvelous story of Amazonia. Readers can gaze at one part of the tapestry and later explore another portion, each time coming away with a better understanding of the nature of this extraordinary ecosystem. * Roger Mustalish, HerbalGram *As he has done in his other books and films ... Plotkin blazes a path for others to follow: a storied path that can help us both re-story and restore the precious places persisting on this planet, despite all odds. * Gary Paul Nabhan, LA Review of Books *Table of ContentsIntroduction What is a Tropical Rainforest? What Do We Mean When We Say the Amazon? Why is the Amazon Important? Geology, Soils and Vegetation Geological history - What is the geological history of Amazonia? Soils - Do large and diverse Amazonian rainforests thrive on poor soil? Terra preta - What is terra preta? Vegetation - What are the major forest and vegetation types in Amazonia? Savannas - What are savannas and how are they created? Tepuis - What are tepuis? Nutrient cycling - If the soils are so poor, how can lush rainforests flourish? Rivers The Amazon Source of the Amazon - What is the source of the Amazon River? River types - What are the various river types in Amazonia? Aquatic habitats - What are some of the characteristic aquatic habitats of Amazonia? Casiquiare canal - What is the Casiquiare Canal? Coral reef - Is there a coral reef in the Amazon? Indians 1492 population Languages - How many indigenous languages are there in Amazonia? Paleoindians, the first arrivals - When did the first humans arrive in Amazonia? Shamans - What is a Shaman? Shrunken heads - Shrunken heads: fact or fiction? Slash and burn agriculture - What is slash-and-burn agriculture? Uncontacted tribes - Do uncontacted tribes still exist? History The Struggle for the Amazon Treaty of Tordesillas - What was the Treaty of Tordesillas? Aguirre - Was Werner Herzog's film "Aguirre, the Wrath of God," based on a historical figure? Teixeira - What role did Pedro Teixeira play in the colonization of the Amazon? Mapping - What is the history of the mapping of the Amazon? The Advent of the European Scientists Merian - Was the first European scientific explorer of the Amazon a woman? Darwin - What is the connection between the Amazon and the origins of the Theory of Evolution? Agassiz / Harvard Amazon Rubber and the Jari Project Rubber atrocities - What were the Putumayo Rubber Atrocities? Rubber as commodity - How Did Amazonian Rubber Become A Key Global Commodity? Rubber / Fordlandia - Why did Henry Ford fail at Fordlandia in Brazil? Jari Project - Fordlandia redux - What was the Jari Project, and why did it fail? Rondon / Mendes - Who were Cândido Rondon and Chico Mendes? Amazonian biota Animals Faunal origins - What is the origin of the Amazonian fauna? Vampire bats - Do vampire bats suck human blood? Spiders - How dangerous are Amazonian spiders? Cats, crocodilians and serpents - Do jaguars, crocs and snakes eat people in Amazonia? Frogs - Are there hallucinogenic frogs in the Amazon Rainforest? Pink dolphins - Are there pink dolphins in the Amazon? Fish diversity - Why does Amazonia harbor the most diverse freshwater fish fauna in the world? Candiru catfish - Is the tiny candiru catfish as terrifying as its reputation? Electric eels - How dangerous are electric eels? Piranhas - Do piranhas deserve their fearsome reputation? Sharks - Are there man-eating sharks in the Amazon? Plants Ayahuasca - What is ayahuasca? Bromeliads - What are the aerial aquaria of the Amazon? Coca - What is the traditional use of coca in the Amazon? Curare - What is Curare and Why is it Important? Lianas - Why are lianas so important and yet so poorly understood? Figs - Why are strangler figs not considered to be lianas? Palms - Why are palms the single most useful group of organisms to the indigenous peoples of the Amazon? Palms with economic promise - Which Amazonian palms offer the greatest economic promise for the future? Victoria lily - Did an Amazonian water lily serve as the inspiration for steel frame architecture? Threats Cattle - What is the role of cattle ranching in Amazonian agriculture? Dams - What is the status of hydroelectric dams in the Amazon? Gold - What is the impact of gold mining in the Amazon? Agriculture / Big - The Role of Export-Driven Large-Scale Agricultural Production in Deforestation Agriculture / Small - What is the role of small-scale farming in deforestation? Logging - What is the status of logging in the Amazon? Climate Change - How will climate change affect Amazonia? Deforestation - What drives deforestation in the Amazon? Oil and gas - What is the impact of oil and gas exploration on forest peoples? Overhunting - What is the impact of overhunting and overfishing on the Amazon? China - What is the Impact of China in Amazonia? Conclusion Conservation - How to Save the Amazon?
£10.44
Oxford University Press Essential Entomology
Book SynopsisComprising well over half of all known animal species, insects are the most successful organisms on the planet. Indeed, it is no exaggeration to say that one cannot study agriculture, biology, and the environment, without a basic understanding of entomology. Furthermore, insects are indispensable to advances in molecular biology and genetics, and their ongoing decline in many parts of the world has stimulated much research in the crucial roles they play in global ecosystems. However, the sheer diversity of insects can be a challenge to every newcomer to entomology. Most entomology textbooks tend to focus on insect biology, leaving readers with only a superficial idea of insect diversity and evolution, while others delve into too much detail that will deter the novice. In contrast, Essential Entomology has a clear taxonomic structure that provides readers with the necessary framework to understand the diversity, life history, and taxonomy of insects in a new light. This fully revised edition provides the most up-to-date guide to insects and includes all the major developments in molecular biology and palaeontology of the last 20 years. This textbook is an essential read for undergraduate and graduate students taking courses in entomology, agriculture, and forestry. It will also appeal to a broad academic audience of ecologists, conservationists, natural resource managers, as well as to the far more numerous general readers who are interested in wildlife, nature, and the environment. With these diverse audiences in mind, the straightforward and accessible style of the first edition has been maintained, technical jargon has been kept to a minimum, and sufficient background information is provided to enable the reader to follow the text with ease.Trade ReviewReview from previous edition This book should be as indispensable to students as to amateur entomologists, ecologists, and nature enthusiasts...it is to be hoped that this excellent value reference book will achieve a wide circulation. * Galathea, 2001 *Essential Entomology guides and inspires the entomological student, and at the same time, offers up-to-date notions about generic entomology for the more expert reader. * Alfredo Venturo, Community Ecology *Essential Entomology guides and inspires the entomological student, and at the same time, offers up-to-date notions about generic entomology for the more expert reader. * Community Ecology *Table of ContentsSECTION 1: INTRODUCTION TO INSECT EVOLUTION AND BIOLOGY SECTION 2: THE INSECT ORDERS ARCHAEOGNATHA (Bristletails) ZYGENTOMA (Silverfish and Firebrats) EPHEMEROPTERA (Mayflies) ODONATA (Dragonflies and Damselflies) HAPLOCERCATA (DERMAPTERA and ZORAPTERA) (Earwigs and Angel Insects) PLECOPTERA (Stoneflies) ORTHOPTERA (Grasshoppers and Crickets) DICTYOPTERA (BLATTODEA and MANTODEA) (Cockroaches, Termites, and Praying Mantids) XENONOMIA (GRYLLOBLATTODEA and MANTOPHASMATODEA) (Ice Crawlers and Heel Walkers) EUKINOLABIA (PHASMATODEA and EMBIOPTERA) (Stick Insects, Leaf Insects, and Webspinners) PSOCODEA (Barklice, Booklice, and True Lice) HEMIPTERA (True Bugs) THYSANOPTERA (Thrips) RAPHIDIOPTERA (Snakeflies) MEGALOPTERA (Alderflies, Dobsonflies, and Fishflies) NEUROPTERA (Lacewings, Antlions, and Mantidflies) COLEOPTERA (Beetles) STREPSIPTERA (Strepsipterans) MECOPTERA (Scorpionflies) SIPHONAPTERA (Fleas) DIPTERA (Flies) TRICHOPTERA (Caddisflies) LEPIDOPTERA (Butterflies and Moths) HYMENOPTERA (Bees, Wasps, and Ants) SECTION 3: FIELDWORK
£39.42
Oxford University Press Guide to the Birds of China
Book SynopsisChina covers about 7% of the earth''s land surface and encompasses a hugely diverse range of habitats. As a result, it boasts a rich and diverse avifauna, including some of the most spectacular and fascinating birds to be found anywhere in the world. Building on the enormous popularity and reputation of the original A Field Guide to the Birds of China (2000), John MacKinnon''s fully updated and refreshed work remains a truly comprehensive, taxonomically modern, fully illustrated, and authoritative field guide. 1484 bird species are richly illustrated in 164 annotated colour plates, which are closely integrated with up-to-date colour distribution maps, QR codes providing easy access to birdcalls, IUCN Red List status indicators and new, concise descriptions. These descriptions feature key observations as well as conveying crucial changes to species distributions resulting from climate change and landscape transformation. Guide to the Birds of China will appeal to an international and grTrade Reviewuide to the Birds of China will appeal to an international and growing audience of professional and amateur ornithologists and birding enthusiasts, academic researchers and students, wildlife photographers, and conservationists ... Currently the best available English language guide to the birds of China. * Ian Paulsen, THE BIRDBOOKER REPORT *Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgements Introduction to the Region A Brief History of Ornithology in China Practical Tips for Birdwatching Anatomy and Plumage of a Bird Glossary of Terms Used Species Descriptions, Maps and Plates Non-Passerines Passerines Appendices Additional Birds Selected Bibliography
£44.99
Oxford University Press Competition Theory in Ecology Oxford Series in
Book SynopsisThis novel textbook addresses the shortcomings of current competition theory and suggests a more useful approach that can provide a basis for future models that have far greater predictive ability in both ecology and evolution.Trade ReviewThis book offers readers a compelling introduction to these complexities. * Mark A. McPeek, Biological Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, The Quarterly Review of Biology *
£39.42
Clarendon Press The Politics of Environmental Discourse
Book SynopsisThis path-breaking study open the way for a better understanding of the environmental conflict, showing how language can be seen to shape our view of what environmental politics is really about and how those perceptions can differ between countries. The book identifies the emergence and increasing political importance of ''ecological modernization'' as a new concept in the language of environmental politics. This concept, which has come to replace the antagonistic debates of the 1970s, stresses the opportunities of environmental policy for modernizing the economy and stimulating the technological innovation. Combining abstract social theory with detailed empirical analysis, the author illustrates the social and political dynamics of ecological modernization in a detailed analysis of the acid rain controversies in Great Britain and the Netherlands. The book concludes by reflecting on the institutional challenge of the environmental politics in the years to come.Trade ReviewHajer establishes once and for all the importance of attending to the discourse dimension of public policy, and in this respect his is a truly pathbreaking work. * Policy Sciences *This superb book is one of the few successful attempts to apply contemporary sociological thinking to a detailed empirical case-study in the environmental sphere in a way which is genuinely enlightening for policy-makers as well as for academic social science disciplines ... Such challenging questions are a fitting conclusion to an excellent book. * Global Environmental Change *Maarten Hajer has delivered a book that is remarkable for its comprehensiveness and its incisiveness ... this volume establishes a firm foundation for the study of ecological modernisation and serious scholars of environmental policy will derive immense benefit from the author's astute insights. * Environmental Values *this is an important book which will interest many political scientists apart from those focusing on the environment ... There are excellent summary tables and a model of an index. For environment specialists, there are fresh insights on issues such as risk; the role of scientists and scientific data; and the emergence - with its institutional repercussions - of ecological modernization as the dominent way of conceptualizing environmental problems. The way he draws from German and Dutch primary and secondary sources is especially valuable. * Stephen C. Young, University of Manchester, Political Studies *
£112.50
Clarendon Press The Politics of Environmental Discourse
Book SynopsisDr Hajer''s path-breaking study opens the way for a better understanding of the environmental conflict, showing how language can be seen to shape our view of what environmental politics is really about and how those perceptions can differ between countries. The author identifies the emergence and increasing political importance of ''ecological modernization'' as a new concept in the language of environmental politics. This concept, which has come to replace the antagonistic debates of the 1970s, stresses the opportunities of environmental policy for modernizing the economy and stimulating the technological innovation. Combining abstract social theory with detailed empirical analysis, Martin Hajer illustrates the social and political dynamics of ecological modernization in a detailed analysis of the acid rain controversies in Great Britain and the Netherlands. He concludes by reflecting on the institutional challenge of the environmental politics in the years to come.Trade Reviewthis is an important book which will interest many political scientists apart from those focusing on the environment ... There are excellent summary tables and a model of an index. For environment specialists, there are fresh insights on issues such as risk; the role of scientists and scientific data; and the emergence - with its institutional repercussions - of ecological modernization as the dominent way of conceptualizing environmental problems. The way he draws from German and Dutch primary and secondary sources is especially valuable. * Stephen C. Young, University of Manchester, Political Studies *This superb book is one of the few successful attempts to apply contemporary sociological thinking to a detailed empirical case-study in the environmental sphere in a way which is genuinely enlightening for policy makers as well as for academic scoial science disciplines ... an excellent book * Simon Shackley, Global Environmental Change, vol.7 no.2 1997 *Table of ContentsIntroduction ; 1. The New Environmental Conflict ; 2. Discourse Analysis ; 3. The Historical Roots of Ecological Modernization ; 4. Accumulating Knowledge, Accumulating Pollution? Ecological Modernization in the United Kingdom ; 5. The Micro-Powers of Apocalypse: Ecological Modernization in the Netherlands ; 6. Ecological Modernization: Discourse and Institutional Change
£78.30
Oxford University Press ENVIRONMENTAL DNA C For Biodiversity Research and
Book SynopsisEnvironmental DNA (eDNA) refers to DNA that can be extracted from environmental samples (such as soil, water, feces, or air) without the prior isolation of any target organism. The analysis of environmental DNA has the potential of providing high-throughput information on taxa and functional genes in a given environment, and is easily amenable to the study of both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. It can provide an understanding of past or present biological communities as well as their trophic relationships, and can thus offer useful insights into ecosystem functioning. There is now a rapidly-growing interest amongst biologists in applying analysis of environmental DNA to their own research. However, good practices and protocols dealing with environmental DNA are currently widely dispersed across numerous papers, with many of them presenting only preliminary results and using a diversity of methods. In this context, the principal objective of this practical handbook is to provide biTrade ReviewThis volume fills a much-needed gap, offering a gentle introduction into the field of environmental DNA, which will be especially useful for readers of minor to intermediate experience with environmental DNA. * Vasco Elbrecht, Centre for Biodiversity Genomics, University of Guelph, The Quarterly Review of Biology *An excellent instructional book or supplementary reading for any eDNA based classes...It is a timely and important addition to the field of molecular ecology, and will undoubtedly remain the go-to book on metabarcoding for several years. * Dr Anthony A. Charlton, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia, Molecular Ecology *This book is a timely overview of eDNA as a complimentary and non-invasive approach for investigating and monitoring biodiversity. The book is an ideal introduction to all ecologists looking to eDNA, but also speaks to the more experienced researchers in molecular ecology. Lastly, it provides textbook material for university courses around the world. * Philip Francis Thomsen, Trends in Ecology & Evolution Journal *If you are contemplating moving into this topic, or just want to understand it better, do try and get your hands on a copy - something that might not be that easy just now as I understand the book has proved to be so popular that it is already having to be reprinted. * IMA FUNGUS *In a world faced with accelerating environmental change and loss of biodiversity, this book is a timely overview of eDNA as a complementary and noninvasive approach for investigating and monitoring biodiversity ... an ideal introduction to all ecologists looking to eDNA as a method of choice, but also speaks to the more experienced researchers in molecular ecology. Lastly, it provides textbook material for university courses around the world, where eDNA is continuously increasing in popularity. * Philip Francis Thomsen, Department of Bioscience, University of Aarhus, Trends in Ecology and Evolution *Table of Contents1: Introduction to environmental DNA (eDNA) 2: DNA metabarcode choice and design 3: Reference databases 4: Sampling 5: DNA extraction 6: DNA amplification and multiplexing 7: DNA sequencing 8: DNA metabarcoding data analysis 9: Single-species detection 10: Environmental DNA for functional diversity 11: Some early landmark studies 12: Freshwater ecosystems 13: Marine environments 14: Terrestrial ecosystems 15: Palaeoenvironments 16: Host-associated microbiota 17: Diet analysis 18: Analysis of bulk samples 19: The future of eDNA metabarcoding
£102.12
Oxford University Press Environmental DNA For Biodiversity Research and
Book SynopsisThe objective of this practical handbook is to provide ecologists (both students and researchers) with the scientific background necessary to assist with the understanding and implementation of best practice studies and analyses based on environmental DNA.Trade ReviewThis volume fills a much-needed gap, offering a gentle introduction into the field of environmental DNA, which will be especially useful for readers of minor to intermediate experience with environmental DNA. * Vasco Elbrecht, Centre for Biodiversity Genomics, University of Guelph, The Quarterly Review of Biology *An excellent instructional book or supplementary reading for any eDNA based classes...It is a timely and important addition to the field of molecular ecology, and will undoubtedly remain the go-to book on metabarcoding for several years. * Dr Anthony A. Charlton, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia, Molecular Ecology *This book is a timely overview of eDNA as a complimentary and non-invasive approach for investigating and monitoring biodiversity. The book is an ideal introduction to all ecologists looking to eDNA, but also speaks to the more experienced researchers in molecular ecology. Lastly, it provides textbook material for university courses around the world. * Philip Francis Thomsen, Trends in Ecology & Evolution Journal *If you are contemplating moving into this topic, or just want to understand it better, do try and get your hands on a copy - something that might not be that easy just now as I understand the book has proved to be so popular that it is already having to be reprinted. * IMA FUNGUS *In a world faced with accelerating environmental change and loss of biodiversity, this book is a timely overview of eDNA as a complementary and noninvasive approach for investigating and monitoring biodiversity ... an ideal introduction to all ecologists looking to eDNA as a method of choice, but also speaks to the more experienced researchers in molecular ecology. Lastly, it provides textbook material for university courses around the world, where eDNA is continuously increasing in popularity. * Philip Francis Thomsen, Department of Bioscience, University of Aarhus, Trends in Ecology and Evolution *Table of Contents1: Introduction to environmental DNA (eDNA) 2: DNA metabarcode choice and design 3: Reference databases 4: Sampling 5: DNA extraction 6: DNA amplification and multiplexing 7: DNA sequencing 8: DNA metabarcoding data analysis 9: Single-species detection 10: Environmental DNA for functional diversity 11: Some early landmark studies 12: Freshwater ecosystems 13: Marine environments 14: Terrestrial ecosystems 15: Palaeoenvironments 16: Host-associated microbiota 17: Diet analysis 18: Analysis of bulk samples 19: The future of eDNA metabarcoding
£52.25
Oxford University Press Invasive Species
Book SynopsisToday there is no place on Earth that does not harbour invasive exotic species. Invasive plants and animals can be found on every continent, including Antarctica, and within all waterbodies, including all oceans. In our increasingly connected world, with speedy commercial and recreational travel and the global movement of biological matter for food, invasive species are showing up at such a fast rate that there is no way to accurately count how many currently exist or how many are likely to emerge in the coming decades. Monitoring these species and controlling their spread is essential, as we increasingly understand the negative impacts they pose: their threat to our health; the toll they take on our commercial production; and the threat they pose to native ecosystems. This Very Short Introduction provides a clear definition of an invasive species, and considers the myriad ways they are moved around the globe, and the ecological, social, and economic impacts they often impose. Exploring the way Earth''s biodiversity is being affected by global change, Julie Lockwood also discusses policy and management approaches to combating the ill-effects of invasive species, and how invasive species fit within the broader context of environmental change. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of ContentsList of illustrations 1: What is an invasive species? 2: Invasion pathways 3: Establishment 4: Spread 5: Ecological impact 6: Socio-economic impact 7: Policy and management 8: Future of invasion science Future reading Index
£9.49
Oxford University Press Conservation and the Genomics of Populations
Book SynopsisThe third edition of this established textbook provides an updated and comprehensive overview of the essential background, concepts, and tools required to understand how genetics can be used to conserve species, reduce threat of extinction, and manage species of ecological or commercial importance.Trade ReviewThis textbook is foremost a great reference for upper level undergraduate or graduate courses, as well as a good go-to reference for conservation genetic professionals. As a teaching resource, the plentiful boxes and guest boxes that present recent literature and contextual examples provide great platforms for student discussion and improved comprehension. * S.J. Galla et al., Conservation Genetics *The book nicely complements the theory with real-world examples and provides important background reading, which I would recommend to each student starting a conservation genomics project. Informed conservationists will also benefit from the overview on what is possible with today's technologies. The authors did an excellent job in summarizing the recent developments and included the most recent discussion in the literature. * G. Segelbacher, Evolutionary Applications *This book provides a solid background on theory and concepts and demonstrates how they underpin the interpretation of genomic data. This is a strength that will see this book stay as one of the few key textbooks in conservation genetics in the future. It is straight to the point and ideal for those coming to grips with the world of conservation genomics. * L.E. Neaves, Biodiversity and Conservation *This book provides conservation biologists with an ideal way to get acquainted with evolutionary genetics and the use of genomics in conservation science. It will help readers gain insightful understanding of the theory of population genetics that underpins conservation genetics. The study of conservation genetics and genomics is assisted by a comprehensive glossary, which even sheds light on such unusual terms as gnomics! If you are using or planning to use a genomic approach in conservation, go for this edition; it will be invaluable. * G. Sramkó, Conservation Biology *Table of ContentsPreface PART I: INTRODUCTION 1: Introduction 2: Phenotypic Variation in Natural Populations 3: Genetic Variation in Natural Populations 4: Population Genomics PART II: MECHANISMS OF EVOLUTIONARY CHANGE 5: Random Mating Populations: Hardy-Weinberg Principle 6: Small Populations and Genetic Drift 7: Effective Population Size 8: Natural Selection 9: Population Subdivision 10: Beyond Individual Loci 11: Quantitative Genetics 12: Mutation PART III: EVOLUTIONARY RESPONSE TO ANTHROPOGENIC CHANGES 13: Hybridization 14: Invasive Species 15: Exploited Populations 16: Climate Change PART IV: CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT 17: Inbreeding Depression 18: Demography and Extinction 19: Population Connectivity 20: Units of Conservation 21: Conservation Breeding and Restoration 22: Genetic Identification 23: Genetic Monitoring 24: guest chapter author Helen R. Taylor: Conservation Genetics in Practice Glossary COMPANION WEBSITE MATERIALS (Available at www.oup.com/companion/AllendorfCGP3e ) Appendix: Probability, Statistics, and Coding References
£105.00
Oxford University Press The Marine Environment and Biodiversity
Book SynopsisWritten primarily for 16-19 year old students, this primer introduces the key features of the marine environment and explores the great diversity of life which the ocean supports, as well as discussing the threats to this environment and its biodiversity that result from human activity.Trade ReviewA great resource for any student or practitioner with an interest in marine science. * Dr Cecilia Liszka, The Marine Biologist, 26 April 2023 *It is undeniably an ambitious undertaking and strikes a necessary balance between breadth and depth of subject matter. It also does an impressive job of synthesizing this dynamic multidisciplinary field, and the result is a neat review of cross-cutting concepts and considerations any student of marine science will encounter throughout their career. * Dr Cecilia Liszka, The Marine Biologist, 26 April 2023 *The Marine Environment and Biodiversity certainly fulfils its brief: it provides an overview of some of the core branches of oceanographic science, illustrated with interesting case studies and a glossary of terms; it offers the motivated reader 'pause for thought' problems to explore independently; and each chapter ends with a selection of further reading and questions to stimulate discussion. * Dr Cecilia Liszka, The Marine Biologist, 26 April 2023 *Table of Contents1: The marine environment: United and divided 2: The ocean in motion 3: Seawater matters 4: What is marine biodiversity? 5: Measuring marine biodiversity 6: What does marine biodiversity do for us? 7: What are we doing to marine biodiversity?
£22.99
The University of Chicago Press Serengeti IV Sustaining Biodiversity in a
Book SynopsisExplores our species role as a source of both discord and balance in Serengeti ecosystem dynamics. This book shows how the people and landscapes surrounding crucial protected areas like Serengeti National Park can and must contribute to Serengeti conservation.
£129.00
The University of Chicago Press Messages from Islands A Global Biodiversity Tour
Book SynopsisFrom a small island in the Baltic Sea to the large tropical islands of Borneo and Madagascar, Messages from Islands is a global tour of these natural, water-bound laboratories. In this career-spanning work, Ilkka Hanski draws upon the many islands on which he has performed fieldwork to convey key themes in ecology. By exploring the islands' biodiversity as an introduction to general issues, Hanski helps us to learn how species and communities interact in fragmented landscapes, how evolution generates biodiversity, and how this biodiversity is maintained over time. Beginning each chapter on a particular island, Hanski dives into reflections on his own field studies before going on to pursue a variety of ecological questions, including: What is the biodiversity crisis? What are extinction thresholds and extinction debts? What can the biodiversity hypothesis tell us about rapidly increasing allergies, asthma, and other chronic inflammatory disorders?The world's largest island, Greenland,
£82.65
The University of Chicago Press Fragile Web
£27.55
McGill-Queen's University Press Paths of Pollen
Book SynopsisAs human actions erase habitats and raise the planet’s temperature, plant diversity is dropping and a growing list of pollinators faces decline or even extinction. Paths of Pollen chronicles pollen’s vital mission to spread plant genes, from the prehistoric past to the present, while looking towards an ecologically uncertain future.Trade Review“Stephen Humphrey is a highly accomplished, and engaging storyteller. In the manner of Carl Sagan or Aldo Leopold, he calls attention to little-known or misunderstood topics, and presents these to an often science-hostile public. Paths of Pollen advances the cause of pollinator and plant conservation for their benefits to all humankind and wildlife, now and in the future. I couldn’t put it down.” Stephen Buchmann, author of *What a Bee Knows: Exploring the Thoughts, Memories, and Personalities of Bees *“With Paths of Pollen, Humphrey has extended an accessible invitation to consider these relationships at multiple scales, from the wide view of global environmental activism to the microscopic perspective of a grain of pollen.” *Montreal Review of Books *
£25.19
Columbia University Press Applying Natures Design
Book SynopsisThe fragmenting of habitats is endangering animal populations. To address this problem, conservationists have turned to biological corridors, areas of land set aside to facilitate movement of species and ecological processes. This book offers an overview of knowledge on corridors, their design, and their implementation.Trade Review[A] valuable book... Highly recommended. Choice This small volume is packed with ideas, concepts, and references. It should be on the bookshelves of conservationists. -- Terry L. Erwin Quarterly Review of Biology This book presents an opportunity for a diverse readership to gain a new perspective about corridors and to spark new ideas of how their disciplines can participate. -- Stephen N. Matthews Landscape Ecology
£100.00
