Insects (entomology) Books

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Book SynopsisThe ideal portable companion, the world-renowned Collins Gem series returns with a fresh new look and updated material.Trade Review‘ … is a gem.’Carmarthen Journal

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Book SynopsisThe ideal portable companion, the world-renowned Collins Gem series returns with a fresh new look and updated material.

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Book SynopsisExplore the incredible world of bugs in this latest addition to Lonely Planet Kids'' The Fact Book series.From giant millipedes to deadly spiders; jewel-like beetles to jungle leaf-insects; come and take a mini safari across the continents to uncover the incredible array of insects, arachnids and myriapods that roam our planet. If it crawls, scuttles, flutters or stings, you'll find it in The Bugs Book.Inside The Bugs Book: Travel across six bug-tastic continents - North America, South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania and learn about the few bugs found in Antarctica! Discover fact-packed bug profiles with fascinating size, habitat and diet stats to wow your friends Features stunning macro photography so you can see each of the insects up close Detailed illustrations by Daniel Limon bring these amazing minibeasts to life Daniel has created artwork for numerous nature and animal books including Lonely Planet Kids'' The Ocean Book and Ocean Animal Atlas Written by Nancy Dickmann, author of Lonely Planet Kids' Amazing Night Sky Atlas, Amazing Ancient History Atlas, and The Rocks Book Contents include: North America Hickory Horned Devil; Black Widow; Monarch Butterfly. South America Goliath Birdeater Tarantula; Fire Ant; Giant Water Bug. Europe Hummingbird Hawkmoth; Cuckoo Wasp; Western Honeybee. Africa Deathstalker Scorpion; Rainbow Shield Bug; Desert Locust. Asia Giant Stick Insect; Orchid Mantis; Atlas Moth. Oceania Smurf Bug; Termite; Gumleaf Skelotonizer; and more Learn all about the minibeasts we share our planet with in this awesome study of creepy-crawlies. This is the perfect gift for curious kids who are fascinated by all things bugs!

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Book SynopsisInsects are essential for life as we know it. There are at least one million species of insects, together making up over 80 per cent of all living species on Earth. Around 10,000 new species of insects are discovered every year. In Insectarium learn about the secret world thriving right underneath your feet. How did insects evolve into what they are today? How do they work together and how do they defend themselves? Explore the rooms of Insectarium and meet the beautiful demoiselle and the gigantic goliath beetle. Learn why these small creatures have such a huge impact on the world around us, and why we should be protecting them. This latest addition to the Welcome to the Museum series will appeal to any budding entomologist or nature lover with a thirst for more knowledge.Written by award-winning author, Dave Goulson.

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Book SynopsisSome have wings that shimmer bright... Some live deep in the earth, hidden from sight... Some have a venomous, deadly bite... It''s time to meet the BUGS!Discover a secret world thriving right underneath your feet. From beetles to butterflies, spiders to scorpions, meet the most bizarre and awe-inspiring bugs ever to walk the Earth! Author Simon Mole turns fascinating facts into poems full of humour and heart; Adam Ming's illustrations are a riot of colour and energy, helping these extraordinary creatures to jump off the page. Here is the insect kingdom in all its glory and here is a book that children will want to read over and over again.

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Book SynopsisAn engrossing guide to the world of the flies now available in paperback.Trade Review`A short, rich book by turns informative and humorous... a hymn of praise to her favorite creatures and a gleeful attempt to give readers the willies.' New York Times `What really makes the book so engrossing is the weird and let's be frank occasionally horrifying behaviours that flies exhibit. The most compelling parts of McAlister's book are gruesome tales...after reading her book it is obvious: flies rock.' The Spectator `I would love to find antler flies sparring; or a bat fly `swimming' through the fur of its host; or a giant Texan robberfly feeding on a hummingbird. Instead, if I can keep up with Erica's infectious verve, I will vicariously drink down her rich enthusiasm.' Book of the Month - BBC Wildlife `Pure delight. McAlister tells fly stories with such affection and familiarity that it seems as if she is sharing secrets about her own raucous extended family full of bizarre, outrageous, and sometimes slightly evil characters.The Secret Life of Flies humorously and poetically illustrates that flies are far more than the pesky creatures we swat as they hover over our fruit bowls or bite our ankles.’ American Entomologist

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Book SynopsisBees are a fascinating and indispensable group of insects, but many species are in decline, and efforts to help determine distributions and changes in abundance have to date been compromised by a serious lack of identification resources. This book is from author Steven Falk, who is a professional naturalist and conservationist with over forty years' experience of working with bees. It is a comprehensive introduction to bee classification, ecology, field techniques and recording, a full glossary, and information on how to separate the sexes and distinguish bees from other insects. Also included are introductions to families and genera, describing key characters and life histories, as well as detailed species descriptions covering field and microscopic characters, similar species, variants, flight season, habitat, flowers visited, nesting habits, status & distribution, and parasites & associates. A series of innovative illustrated keys to genera and species are designed to guide the Trade ReviewRichard Lewington’s delicate pictures are without equal, but with copious thumbnail diagrams, and close-up photos of body parts, this is also a detailed key work for the specialist wanting to learn more. -- Richard Jones * BBC Wildlife *Bee identification just got a whole lot easier...with Richard Lewington's stunning artwork and Steven Falk's accessible text and identification keys * Bird Table magazine *Comprehensive, well organised, easy to use, beautifully illustrated and packed with detail this is, quite simply, one of the best field guides I’ve had the pleasure of using. -- Calvin Jones * Ireland's Wildlife *Table of ContentsPreface Introduction What is a bee? Classification of bees At-a-glance guide to bee genera Species, races, forms and variations The life cycle of bees Enemies and associates of bees Habitats of bees Field techniques for finding and recording bees Conserving bees Societies and recording groups Bees beyond Britain and Ireland Further Reading How to Use this Guide Dichotomous keys Format of the species accounts The colour plates Male or female? Is it a bee? Bee anatomy Glossary Author’s web feature Key to Bee Genera Family colletidae - Colletes – Plasterer bees - Hylaeus – Yellow-face bees Family andrenidae - Andrena – Mining bees - Panurgus – Shaggy bees Family halictidae - Halictus – End-banded furrow bees - Lasioglossum – Base-banded furrow bees - Sphecodes – Blood bees - Rophites – Bristle-headed bees - Dufourea – Short-faced bees Family melittidae - Melitta – Blunthorn bees - Macropis – Oil-collecting bees - Dasypoda – Pantaloon bees Family megachilidae - Anthidium – Wool carders - Stelis – Dark bees - Heriades – Resin bees - Chelostoma – Scissor bees - Osmia – Mason bees - Hoplitis – Lesser masons - Megachile – Leafcutter and mud bees - Coelioxys – Sharp-tail bees Family apidae - Nomada – Nomad bees - Epeolus – Variegated cuckoo bees - Eucera – Long-horned bees - Anthophora – Flower bees - Melecta – Mourning bees - Ceratina – Small carpenter bees - Xylocopa – Large carpenter bees - Bombus – Bumblebees - Apis – Honey bees Colour Plates Checklist of the bees of Britain and Ireland Index Photographic credits

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"One of New Statesman's Books of the Year 2021""Just an amazing book. . . . The most amazing, and probably best, photographic guide there is to Britain’s insects."---Kate MacRae, Wildlife Kate"Wild Guides have come out with another gem. This time, there are 1,653 insects for you to enjoy with 1,476 illustrated in full colour. lt covers dragonflies, butterflies, moths, bees, beetles and wasps with everything in between. . . . There is even a section on helping you take photos of the species found, hoping that you will be able to match the incredible photos in this book."---John Miles, Birdwatching Magazine"Must-have . . . impressive Britain’s Insects, which really will help you identify almost every insect you are ever likely to come across in the UK."---Stephen Moss, Stephen Moss's 2021 Round-up of Nature Books"This guide is a marvellous book for both beginners and 'experts' and a complete bargain."---Erica McAlister, Bulletin of the Amateur Entomological Society"This book has immediately winged its way onto my ‘absolute favourites’ book list. It’s the only one I will need to take with me on holidays and insect-spotting trips and ganders in the countryside. It really is a superb book, and I must say, a tremendous achievement. Heartily recommended!"---Amanda Williams, Buzz About Bees"So cometh the hour, cometh the man. Paul Brock has possibly done more to change how we see, recognise, grasp, understand, and, therefore, care about insects than any one else in Britain. . . . What it does brilliantly . . . is to put at your disposal the most comprehensive single text yet produced for British insects, packed with key up-to-the-minute data and with 2,600 superb images of nearly 1500 species."---Mark Cocker, Through 360 Degrees"Indispensable."---John Badmin, British Journal of Entomology and Natural History"This, the latest in the WILDGuides series, is a masterful exercise in clarity, clear design and will get you to the right identification of the species you are looking at. . . . A great achievement."---Mark Avery, Mark Avery blog"A truly outstanding addition to the general naturalist's library . . . . Conservation cannot be driven by ideas alone. It needs people on the ground with knowledge and passion, who see the hidden worlds around them and fight for what they love. Books like this are how such passions begin. . . . The book comes highly recommended by this reviewer. If I lost my copy, I would immediately go out and buy a new one."---Guy Padfield, Dispar: The Online Journal of Lepidoptera"This is a delightful if demanding book, a major work in fact. . . . Britain's Insects will surely become an essential and everyday guide for entomologists, naturalists, gardeners, wildlife photographers and anyone else interested in insects, whatever their level of knowledge. Britain's Insects upholds the superb presentation and finish we have come to expect from the WildGuides series."---Phil Slade, Another Bird Blog"Every UK household should have this to satisfy their own curiosity and make sure the kids get to love insects, as they are essential to like on earth."---Bo Beolens, Fat Birder"It certainly is a very useful tool, and it has an excellent index. . . . All things to all people; it is crammed with snippets of information: life cycles, descriptions, maps, definitions, status, distribution, seasonality, habitat, food plants, behaviour, etc."---Mike Smith, Phasmid Study Group"[Brock’s] new guide to Britain and Ireland’s insects will surely become the definitive identification volume on the subject."---Eric Brown, News Shopper"A masterpiece field guide ‘tome’. . . . A ‘must have’ for everyone with a general interest in insects and I’m sure it will sneak into the libraries of quite a few seasoned experts too!"---Jim Almond, Shropshire Birder blog"A most wonderful book and must surely help to raise awareness towards protecting this precious insect biodiversity." * Bees for Development *"[An] engaging and must-have book. It really is one of those books th.at every time you dip in you feel as though you have learned something quite special." * Lapwing Magazine *"For each species described though there is a species distribution map, a seasonality chart and a description of size, morphology, and habitat. Where known and relevant food plants are given as well as their conservation status and protection. Importantly, similar species to those included are given - many folks are keen to ID without careful attention and this highlights the need to exhibit caution with species level identifications. I like having the images next to the text . . . . A fabulous photographic guide for both beginners and 'experts' and a complete bargain."---Erica McAlister, Bulletin of the Dipterists Forum"A comprehensive book packed with rich colour photos and infographics that explains all the main wasp families in detail . . . . A visit to the many wasp mimics and even a look at wasps in mythology and popular culture."---Paul Hetherington, The Buzz"This book is ideal for anyone interested in insects but not wanting to restrict themselves to a particular group. It has managed to pack in the information of several different guides. . . . Few people interested in insects wouldn’t want to have a copy, and it would be especially useful for budding entomologists and fascinated children."---Rob Jaques, British Trust for Ornithology"Another stunning edition to the WildGuides portfolio and for the beginner an essential purchase and an absolute bargain for the price. Highly recommended."---Roy Stewart, British Naturalists Association"A fabulous resource."---Frances McKim, Pest Magazine"Paul Brock is to be congratulated on navigating the maze of possibilities to arrive at a balanced compromise between detail and breadth. . . . An excellent introduction to our island’s insects."---Peter Smithers, Antenna"A game-changer of a book, a truly significant contribution to the study of our insects . . . . Anyone interested in insects will find Britain’s Insects of value."---Dr S G Compton, Biologist"Beautiful to hold and to ponder . . . A glorious piece of political advocacy."---Mark Cocker, New Statesman"A superb guide for everyone from the entomological generalist to the interested with an enquiring mind. . . . Invaluable."---Paul Hetherington, Atropos Magazine

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Book SynopsisA photographic field guide to 1,500 species of insects found in Britain and IrelandA photographic field guide to all the common and some unusual species of insects across Britain that the keen amateur naturalist is likely to spot. Over 1,500 species are illustrated with detailed photographs chosen for their help in identification.Includes photographs of larvaeEach section is coded with a symbol for easy referenceDifferences between similar species are highlighted to avoid confusionInformation given on when to look and where to find each speciesInsect groups dealt with include butterflies and moths, mayflies, dragonflies, damselflies, grasshoppers, crickets, earwigs, lacewings, bugs, bees, wasps, ants and beetles, all with keys to ensure accurate identification.Trade Review‘An excellent resource’BBC Wildlife ‘The best starting point for any insect study’Wildlife and Countryside

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Finalist for the PROSE Award in Biological Sciences""A thorough and thoughtful primer on the interiority of bees."---Mike Welch, Scientific American"The book’s bees astound; so too the clever humans who study them."---Robert Eagan, Library Journal, starred review"The knowledge on offer here is as entertaining as it is edifying. Readers won’t look at bees the same way again." * Publishers Weekly *"This is an outstanding book that provides a comprehensive overview of honeybee cognition. It provides a clear introduction to the field for amateur bee lovers as well as a nuanced and up-to-date summary for professionals. By looking at the world through the lens of a bee, readers will develop tools to better understand the distinct and vivid experiences of tiny invertebrates that are too frequently ignored."---Elizabeth A. Tibbetts, Current Biology"An entrancing journey through the senses and life struggles of bees."---Alun Anderson, New Scientist"The Mind of a Bee is a fascinating book that I hope will be read and understood by as broad an audience as possible, so that the important conclusions within may be shared more widely."---Amanda Williams, Buzz about Bees"This is an amazing book. I give it my highest recommendation."---David Gascoigne, Travels with Birds"I strongly recommend you read [Chittka’s] book and if you will excuse the pun ‘make your own mind up’. Science and nature writing at its finest and an essential read."---Roy Stewart, British Naturalists' Association"Written with moments of levity and soaked in curiosity, The Mind of a Bee is a delight."---Eliza Middleton, The Conversation"Chittka has managed the extraordinary feat of condensing over three decades of research into a single book and in such a way as to make it accessible to the non-expert." * Beekeepers Quarterly *"[A] devoted, accessible analysis."---Andrew Robinson, Nature"Bee behaviour is undoubtedly fascinating and Chittka is the ideal author to explain the intricacies of how bees learn and make decisions."---John Badmin, British Journal of Entomology and Natural History"Engaging and intellectually stimulating. . . .Despite it being basically a science book, The Mind of a Bee keeps you glued like it were an action-packed story where you just need to know the final conclusion."---Mihai Andrei, ZME Science"An entertaining and enlightening read."---Helen Gray, Animal Welfare"Lars Chittka's book is timely indeed, as it vividly describes and scientifically underpins the stunning intellectual power of these little creatures. . . .Highly recommend this book to everybody interested in nature- layman or professional."---Rudolf Alexander Steinbrecht, Arthropod Structure & Development ​​​​​​​"A wonderful journey into the fascinating world of bee intelligence and consciousness." * Conservation Biology *"The Mind of a Bee makes for fascinating reading. The book’s tight structure and numerous illustrations make it accessible . . . . [And I have] been thoroughly convinced by Chittka that bees are anything but little automatons."---Leon Vlieger, Inquisitive Biologist"This book is based on years of scientific research. It is a fascinating read that poses questions we all ought to be asking ourselves."---Claire Waring, Country Smallholder

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Book SynopsisThis classic guide to the butterflies of Britain and northern Europe enters its third edition as part of the authoritative Collins Guide series.This comprehensive guide to the butterflies of Britain and Europe features over 400 species, depicting both male and female insects. Species descriptions include details on taxonomic nomenclature, distribution, flight period, variation, habitat, behaviour and life cycle. Subspecies are included where there is significant variation, and distribution maps accompany each widespread species.Illustrated by Richard Lewington, the world''s leading butterfly illustrator, this is an ideal field guide for travelling naturalists and butterfly enthusiasts alike and is an essential addition to every nature lover''s bookshelves.Trade Review'Richard Lewington's illustrations are magnificent…Tom Tolman's text is excellent’New Scientist 'The identification plates are without equal in any modern field guide to butterflies'Centre for Biodiversity Studies, Milwaukee Public Museum

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Book Synopsis Richly illustrated stories of fascinating insects from across the globe in 366 daily entries. In this beautifully produced collection, nature experts Gail Ashton and Dominic Couzens tell the stories of hundreds of insects with information about behaviour, migration and protection mechanisms, as well as their involvement in folklore, history, literature and more. Learn the scientific name for each bug and why they are important while reading what both poets and scientists have recorded about them over the years. Discover the story of the gnat, whose wings beat at 1000 times a second, the glowworm, who has captured the power of light, and the sacred scarab beetle, worshipped in Egypt thousands of years ago. Illustrated with stunning photographs and works of art, showcasing the colours, textures and strange and unique features of these fascinating creatures, this collection is a celebration of insects and their special place in our ecosystems and culture.

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Book SynopsisGrowing up in Australia and the UK, Abigail often found herself covered in paint or flour, or lost in a book. After a BA in English and a PhD on Medieval Castles, she combined her interests writing Usborne children's books - from cookery, craft and castles to science and unicorns.

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Book SynopsisThe second edition of an indispensable, practical identification guide for all active moth enthusiasts. This concise guide is a companion to the main Field Guide to the Moths of Great Britain and Ireland by the same expert authors, now in condensed form with artwork opposite the species descriptions and lay-flat binding for ease of use in the field. It includes brief but comprehensive field descriptions of all the macro moths in Great Britain, Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands, and has been thoroughly revised and updated to reflect the latest advances in taxonomy. Featuring more than 1,600 superbly detailed color artworks and covering around 900 species, this portable guide will be an essential addition to every moth-lover''s field kit.Trade ReviewCompact, durable, portable and informative ... Thoroughly recommended. -- John Phillips * British Journal of Entomology *A remarkable book, packed with information and superb illustrations. -- Barry Henwood * Entomologists's Gazette *A delight to flick through, especially if you simply want to marvel at the diversity of species we have on our shores. -- Peter Eeles * The Online Journal of Lepidoptera *Not only a great companion to the main Field Guide, but a very useful book in its own right. * UKMoths *This is a superb publication, designed for true field use – pocket sized, well laid out and with beautiful and accurate drawings. -- Duncan Davidson * BRISC Recorder News *An invaluable field companion that should promote and aid interest in recording moths both for general interest and biodiversity/habitat monitoring purposes. -- Jessie Wormell * Scottish Forestry *Table of ContentsIntroduction Species accounts Further reading Index of scientific names Index of English names

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Prepare to be amazed! This book is full of some incredible facts . . . . Anyone wanting to deepen their knowledge of our Lepidoptera would do well to take a look at what this book has to offer."---Peter Eeles, Dispar: The Online Journal of Lepidoptera ​​​​​​​"The facts will amaze you and the images gather you into an awe-inspiring world that we seldom even think about. Princeton prides itself in excellence and its publishing arm lives up to the high bar."---Bo Beolens, Fat Birder"Extraordinary photographs allow the reader, like the photographer, to get up close and personal to a huge range of colourful moths . . . . By the time the reader turns to the last page, says the author, he hope that they will appreciate these species’ role in their respective environments. There is no doubt about that at all." * Country Smallholding *"The book covers just about everything you could imagine about moths and even more as the authors have been very thorough in incorporating a vast amount of information into a beautifully illustrated book."---Geoff Carpentier, North Durham Nature Newsletter"I cannot express what a pleasure reading this book inspires in me, every page has a strikingly colourful or terrifying image as we get face-to-face with moths and their caterpillars."---Alan Wright, Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester & North Merseyside"This is a visually stunning book on moths. . . . Whether you’re familiar with moths or a newcomer, it should get you excited about them."---Andrew Cormack, Gwent Wildlife Trust"An incredible guide to the often neglected world of moths . . . If this is the standard they have set then the rest of the books in this series are going to be an essential purchase just like this one."---Roy Stewart, British Naturalists Association"The illustrations are excellent, some of the best I have seen anywhere, of moths in all life stages, of habitats . . . . There is something of interest on almost every page."---Adrian Spalding, Entomologist’s Gazette ​​​​"An excellent publication written for moth enthusiasts and amateur or professional entomologists. This book, as well as the entire series, does an excellent job of providing the reader with the most interesting and essential facts."---M. Rindoš, European Journal of Entomology

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Book SynopsisThe most complete photographic field guide to hoverflies of Britain and North-west Europe ever written.An essential part of our eco-systems, hoverflies are the second most important pollinators after bees but sadly, more than a third of all European species are now under threat of extinction. Written by two leading experts, Hoverflies of Britain and North-west Europe is the first and only photographic field guide to cover all 400 hoverfly species occurring in Britain and neighbouring countries in such detail.Each species account contains a description, population status, ecology and habitat, an up-to-date map of its distribution across North-western Europe, a flight time diagram and guidance on differentiating similar species. There are also detailed illustrations and stunning full-colour macro photographs in each account, showing key features of the species to aid accurate identification.This is the ultimate photographic field guide to hoverfli

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Book SynopsisEvokes the thrill of the chase' SPECTATORThis book is a revelation' THE HERALDBaird writes with gusto . . . her remarkable book can guide all of us back towards the light' SCOTTISH DAILY MAILGreen Longhorns, Pimpinel Pugs and Peacock Moths these are just some of the striking species that catch ecologist Katty Baird's attention. Roaming Scotland in all manner of weather, she climbs down abandoned mines and ventures behind waterfalls in search of these misunderstood and maligned creatures. Meetings with Moths is an uplifting call for everyone to look more closely at their surroundings and discover nature's hidden secrets, but perhaps more importantly to find the passion that ignites us.

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Book SynopsisRSPB Spotlight: Bumblebees is packed with eye-catching, informative colour photos, and features succinct and detailed text written by a knowledgeable naturalist.Bumblebees are some of our most familiar insects, and are among the few that are almost universally viewed as friendly' their low buzzing is the quintessential sound of our gardens in the summertime. Spotlight Bumblebees considers all 24 UK bumblebee species, examining what made the group so successful and how circumstances have led to the survival of some species but the precipitous decline of the majority, highlighting the dangers we all face if populations continue to plummet. Separate chapters cover all aspects of bumblebees' biology and lifestyles, from spring queens emerging from dark overwintering chambers to establish their nests, to the drone swarms that herald the end of the bumblebee season. Bumblebees around the world are studied, including in the southern hemisphere where Europe's decliTable of ContentsMeet the Bumblebees Relatives and Predecessors What Makes a Bumblebee? At Home with the Bumblebees Flowers, Foraging and Feeding Threats Nature’s Little Pollinators Watching Bumblebees Bumblebees and People Glossary Further Reading and Resources Acknowledgements Image Credits Index

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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

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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

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Book SynopsisAn addition to a popular science series explores how the cycle of life is enriched by the way worms live, eat, and work in the underground environment.

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Book SynopsisA witty and informative account that busts the myths about Britain''s most captivating butterfly species.When summer is at its zenith and the sallow foliage develops a bluish tinge, a giant butterfly beautiful, bold and brazen flies powerfully over the tree canopy. Females of this species, wary yet determined, haunt the sallow thickets, depositing their eggs, while the males establish treetop territories and descend to the woodland floor in search of indelicacies to feed upon. Mysterious, elusive and enthralling in equal measure, this is the butterfly that Victorian collectors yearned for above all others: His Imperial Majesty, the Purple Emperor. A wondrous enigma, the Purple Emperor is our most elusive and least-known butterfly we glimpse it only through fissures in its treetop world, yet this giant insect has fascinated us for centuries and has even inspired its own ''Emperoring'' language. Matthew Oates became captivated by the Purple Emperor following his first sighting Trade ReviewCaptivating ... an exuberant natural history. * Daily Mail *One of the greatest naturalists of our time, Matthew is also one of science's most articulate and generous communicators, the kind of champion nature needs now more than ever. -- Isabella Tree, author of WildingDogbarking wood, cherry-pickers, shrimp paste, caterpillars called Sir Cloudesley Shovell – this monumental, transcendent, hilarious book is a natural history like no other. This profound work of genius brings us alive to the pulsating wonder of an English woodland in June – to life, the universe and everything. -- Patrick Barkham, author of The Butterfly IslesMatthew Oates's beatification of one of our most – he would say the most – spectacular insects is a total delight. In prose which soars as high as its subject, he blends mythology, history, biology and exceptional field skills to create the ultimate butterfly biography. -- Brett Westwood, presenter and authorWith its beautiful jacket cover and subject matter, His Imperial Majesty conjures intrigue from the off. Delving page by page into the natural history of one of Britain's most spectacular and mysterious insects, Matthew Oates reflects on almost 50 years of personal observations, study, musings, and what is, quite frankly, obsession, setting you on course for a riveting and riotous rollercoaster ride through the life and times of this remarkable butterfly. -- Simon Breeze * British Wildlife *Table of ContentsForeword Introduction: Adrift on the wind Chapter 1: A glorious history Chapter 2: The modern era Chapter 3: The Purple Empire Chapter 4: Introduction to the adult stage Chapter 5: Beauty as a weapon: the male Purple Emperor Chapter 6: The Empress: a life apart Chapter 7: Looking for Purple Emperors Chapter 8: Habitats and breeding grounds Chapter 9: Sallow identification and preferences: a veritable nightmare Chapter 10: Eggs and late summer larvae Chapter 11: Hibernation and the winter months Chapter 12: Spring larvae and the pupal stage Chapter 13: Adventures with remarkable caterpillars Chapter 14: Looking for Purple Emperor eggs and larvae Chapter 15: The Purple land that England gained Chapter 16: Conservation issues Chapter 17: The future Appendix: The history and current status of the Purple Emperor, by region and country Glossary References and further reading Epilogue Acknowledgements Index of species and scientific names General index

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Book SynopsisA Naturalist's Guide to the Insects of Britain & Northern Europe is an easy-to-use identification guide to 280 insect species commonly seen in Britain and North-West Europe that is perfect for amateur naturalists.

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Book SynopsisIntroducing 70 of the world's most dazzling, extraordinary and, at times, disturbing insects. In this richly illustrated and engaging book, you'll discover their remarkable adaptations, intricate worlds and the surprising ways they impact our own lives. Many of these insects that represent peak biological innovation. By sharing their amazing physical attributes - from wings to antennae, iridescence to camouflage, microscopic Fairy Wasps to Goliath Beetles - entomologist and zoologist Ross Piper reveals the fascinating stories of insect origins, mating rituals and survival, as well as their resonance in culture and history. With large-scale, detailed illustrations by Carim Nahaboo, The Wonder of Insects is a celebration of these endlessly fascinating and important creatures.

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Book SynopsisFully revised and expanded second edition of a ground-breaking book that made the fascinating micro-moth group accessible to the general naturalist.Key updates to the second edition include:- addition of c. 300 new species, taking the total covered to more than 1,300 - more than 100 new artworks added to the introduction and colour plate section- names and species order revised to reflect the latest published taxonomy- many more common names now included- all maps replaced with up-to-date species distributions- new colour photographs throughout, including many that will help with identifying larval stages- index revised by species name.Praise for the first edition:''Here, at long last, is a warm and inviting introduction to the broad subject of British microlepidoptera'' - Birdguides

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A brilliant book collection . . . each volume is a colourful, fact-filled introduction to the animals, insects, plants and habitats that makes watching wildlife so fascinating."---Stuart Winter, Sunday Express"This photographic guide to Europe’s dragonflies is amazing, although WILDGuides have built up such a reputation for producing high quality books of this sort that it doesn’t come as a surprise really. But it is still amazing. . . . It is a marvel of concise clear information transfer."---Mark Avery, Mark Avery Blog"This is a very useful field guide, packed with information, that specialists could employ to identify species in the field and that more generalist natural historians would surely want for wider reference. It is a very nice addition to the study of these magnificent insects; it will further widen public awareness of their beauty and the relative fragility of their habitats."---Andrew Wakeham-Dawson, Entomologist's Monthly Magazine"I’ve been a big fan of the WILDGuides series from the first publication . . . they are my first port of call. I already have the WILDGuides for British species, now I can venture into Europe’s wild and wet places . . . looking for these aerial jewels. Take a look and you will want it… this comprehensive and easy to read guide has it all!"---Bo Beolens, Fat Birder"This field guide features all the hallmarks we have come to expect from Princeton University Press in their WildGuides series. . . . An easy-to-read style means the book will appeal to dragonfly enthusiasts of all ages and standards. It will surely become the go-to textbook guide for Odonata."---Eric Brown, News Shopper"Glorious guide."---Alan Wright, Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside Wildlife Trust"A wealth of information packed into concise, image-rich content in a careful layout designed to provide the most helpful cues along the quickest and easiest route to identification."---Chris Sharpe, Curious Naturalist"Simply brilliant."---Roy Stewart, Country-Side"A first-rate full-colour identification guide."---John Badmin, British Journal of Entomology and Natural History"This is a truly excellent field guide, containing a wealth of detailed and well-presented information. It has much to recommend it to those whose interest in Odonata is now starting to expand beyond British shores."---Adrian Parr, Atropos"A stunning book which I thoroughly recommend. It is aesthetically pleasing as well as having a vast amount of information to assist any Odonata enthusiast or general naturalist identifying Odonata on their travels through Europe."---Neil Anderson, London Naturalist"A very comprehensive guide to the adult species of European Odonata which is richly illustrated and packed with information."---Andy Chick, Amateur Entomological Society"Europe’s Dragonflies is not only comprehensive, but beautifully presented, and I find myself referring to it regularly during the spring and summer months. . . . Surely an essential book to add to your library"---Frank Lambert, Frank Lambert Birding

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A delightful little book that will appeal to anyone with an interest in the majority of life on Earth. It is packed with information that educates and entertains."---George McGavin, President of the Dorset Wildlife Trust"[An] eclectic roundup of bug miscellany. . . . Eaton’s writing is crisp, informative, and at times humorous, and he does a great job of demonstrating insects’ important role on the planet, as they pollinate plants, control pests, and serve as a food source for fish and wildlife." * Publishers Weekly *"Wonderful… lots of good information in here"---Adam Del Rosso, AccuWeather"Insectpedia will appeal to all ages and is written for everyone interested in learning new things about our environment. . . . This book is perfect for piquing interest and encouraging further studies."---Ann Chilcott, Beekeeper’s Quarterly"This engaging and delightful A-Z of the insect world, is packed full of fascinating, and often amusing facts. On the one hand, the format makes this great little book easy to dip in and out of; on the other, Eaton's wit and enthusiasm for his subject keeps you turning the pages."---Amanda Williams, Buzz About Bees"A great pocket-sized book to pick up for moments of awe and wonder."---Stephen Fleming, Bee Craft"A terrific little book."---Phil Slade, Another Bird Blog"An engaging and interesting read for anyone who delights in the marvels of nature."---Frances McKim, Pest Magazine ​​​​​​​"[If] you want a fun read, try this one."---Geoff Carpentier, North Durham Nature Newsletter"Fun and fact filled this entertaining collection . . . . offers new perspectives on the vital relationship between insects and humans." * Bees for Development *"Even the most learned supporters of entomology will find a place on their bookshelf or coffee table for this little gem of a book."---Jacintha Cloney, An Beachaire"The author is very much an insect champion . . . His works really need to get out amongst the unconverted."---Paul Hetherington, Atropos Magazine"An engaging blend of insect facts and folklore that will inspire anyone who delights in the marvels of nature."---British Journal of Entomology and Natural History, John Badmin

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Book SynopsisThis book presents a readable account of butterfly behaviour, based on field observations, great photographs and the latest research. The main focus is on courtship and mating - including perching, searching and territorial behaviour - but to understand these subjects it is necessary to explain how mates are chosen and this requires sections on wing colours and patterns. A chapter on butterfly vision is also essential in terms of how butterflies see the world and each other. There have been exciting discoveries in all of these fields in recent years, including: butterfly vision (butterfly photoreceptors), wing patterns (molecular biology), wing colouration (structural colours and nano-architecture), mating strategies and female choice (ecology and behaviour).Table of Contents1: Introduction 2: Sexual selection and mate choice 3: Strategies for locating a mate 4: Seeing and being seen 5: Courtship behaviour 6: Body language 7: The Mating Game 8: The inside story 9: Scents – chemical communications 10: Wing colours and iridescence 11: Glossary 12: Summing Up 13: Annex 1. 14: References

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Book SynopsisA clear introduction for the novice naturalist to all things ant.Ants are everywhere, though they are small, secretive, easily overlooked and usually misunderstood. But these seemingly puny insects have a superpower that makes them amongst the most important organisms on the planet what they lack in size and individual strength, they more than make up for in sheer numbers and sophisticated, coordinated activity.In this book, impassioned entomologist Richard Jones reveals the bizarre and sometimes poorly studied behaviours of ants. Their aggregation in large (often mind-bogglingly huge) nests is a complex mix of genetics, chemistry, geography and higher social interaction. Their forage trails, usually to aphid colonies but occasionally into the larder, are maintained by a wondrous alchemy of molecular scents and markers. Their social colony structure confused natural philosophers of old and still taxes the modern biologist today. And flying ant days regularly Trade ReviewI didn’t think I wanted to know much about ants but I was drawn into this book by the tales that the author tells and the way he tells them. It’s a treat. * Mark Avery *Readable, popular and amusing. -- Adrian Knowles * British Wildlife *Entomologist and author Richard Jones brings his expertise and accessible writing to the latest book in the British Wildlife Collection series. This time the focus is on the “easily overlooked and usually misunderstood” ants, and why they are so extraordinary. * BBC Wildlife *Full of the passion, depth and excitement that only a genuine ant expert and enthusiast could convey … Jones has poured a lot of his life and a good dollop of soul into this book. -- Seirian Sumner * Royal Entomological Society *There is something here to suit all exponents of natural history, from the curious beginner to the seasoned entomologist. The author easily captures the attention of the most casual ant-watcher. -- Adrian Knowles * British Wildlife *The latest from the excellent Bloomsbury Wildlife Collection. -- Stephen MossJones covers a good deal of territory, and the book is an amalgam of many parts...all are enhanced through the excellent use of illustrations, including many colour photographs of ants and other arthropods; reproductions from historical, scientific, artistic, and cultural sources; and line drawings of physical characters...The writing is lively and accessible...and the inevitable technical aspects (haplodiploidy, for example) are lucidly presented. The book is a fine addition to the libraries of myrmecophiles at any level, and especially those engaged in field observations and citizen science. -- Barry Cottam * The Canadian Field-Naturalist *Table of ContentsPreface 1 What’s so special about ants? 2 What is an ant? 3 The ants of Britain and Ireland 4 Evolution of ants 5 Being an everyday ant 6 The rise of the colony 7 Human interactions with ants 8 Ant interactions with other species 9 Ants in the landscape 10 How to study ants Appendix: Identification key Glossary References Illustration credits Acknowledgements Index

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Finalist for the PROSE Award in Popular Science and Popular Mathematics, Association of American Publishers""Cornell University biologist Seeley is one of the most beloved authors in the beekeeping community, and with good reason: his writing elucidates the lives of honeybees with clear science and a sense of joyous discovery. Seeley employs that approach here; even non-keepers will appreciate his bee’s-eye view of life outside managed apiaries."---Gemma Tarlach, Discover"I was really drawn to Tom Seeley’s The Lives of Bees. He IS the bee keeper’s bee keeper."---Ira Flatow, Science Friday"Elegantly simple in design, the research is expertly synthesized by Seeley to give us a vivid glimpse of how honeybees live when left to their own devices. . . . It is the most complete picture yet of the honeybee’s natural history. . . . As the biblical Prov­erbs 6:6 notes of the ant, we need to go to the bee, 'consider its ways and be wise'. Seeley has done that better than anyone."---Gene Robinson, Nature"Seeley brings us dispatches from the cutting-edge scientific hive-mind exploring the complex behavioral, social, and survival dynamics of bee colonies."---Olivia Rutigliano, LitHub"A wealth of information about honeybees based on decades of scientific research." * Kirkus *"[The Lives of Bees] both celebrates and chronicles the natural history of the honey bee."---Barry Silverstein, Foreword Reviews"This book is a surprise and one heck of a good read."---Scott Shalaway, WV News"This is a first class work that should be read by anyone concerned with the alarming decline in pollinators of all taxa, but is especially important for bee keepers and their future as honey producers, and for biologists and landowners anxious to preserve habitat for wild honey bees."---David M. Gascoigne, Travels with Birds"Written for experts, beekeepers and biology buffs alike. Seeley’s fifth book on bees illuminates why wild honeybees across the planet are thriving while managed colonies are under threat."---Krishna Ramanujan, Cornell Chronicle"William Hope narrates this highly informed work with a sharp focus on its scientific language. His clear, frank style helps the listener follow the author's deep dive into the lives of wild honey bees in their natural colonies, as opposed to those raised and kept by beekeepers. . . . This intriguing scientific study . . . elucidates the distinctive methodology of the entomologist and has much to teach." * AudioFile Magazine *"This gorgeous and noteworthy book provides a very different view of honey bees and how they live in the wild and offers important lessons for saving the world’s managed bee colonies. . . . The Lives of Bees will be highly-prized and often referenced by scientists, beekeepers and students of bees, and will fascinate anyone who wishes to learn more about the lives of these amazing insects."---GrrlScientist, Forbes"An impassioned account of honey bees by one of the most respected ecological bee researchers who is also a master storyteller. This charming, informative, and profusely illustrated book is one to curl up with in an easy chair while sipping honey-laced hot tea."---Stephen L. Buchmann, The Quarterly Review of Biology"Seeley who has been enraptured by bees since 1963, presents an authoritative and engaging account of why bees still fascinate him. The book should be of interests to students, educators, and professional biologists."---Norman A. Johnson, Evolution: Education and Outreach"A detailed and well-illustrated work that will fascinate both curious scientists and those with a passion for bee keeping. . . . Seeley’s book offers great opportunities to learn about honey bees in the wild . . . a source of inspiration for sustainable beekeeping practices."---Fabrice Requier & Robin M Crewe, Trends in Ecology and Evolution"Tells you everything about honeybees that has not been told . . . . The Lives of Bees is well-researched and one of the most authentic works on honeybees." * The Washington Book Review *"Engagingly written and deeply personal, it's the best bee book in print!"---Nicola Bradbear, Bee Craft"As one of the great communicators of honey bee science, Tom Seeley has written a superb account . . . This is a book for every beekeeper and anyone interested in the natural world."---Stephen Fleming, Bee Craft"A remarkable book. It is an essential read for every beekeeper who wishes to understand more fully the natural biology of the bees living in his or her hives."---Ann Chilcott, The Beelistener"This is a wonderful and original book about honey bees, unlike the numerous 'hand books' which are the staple fare of beekeepers. Professor Seeley has turned the idea of keeping bees on its head, pointing out the many indications that our current methods of exploiting honey bees may be quite harmful to them, or at best, not helpful. . . . so well-researched and presented that I feel it should be basic and essential reading for all beekeepers" * An Beachaire *"Both the layman and general entomologist will enjoy this scientific detective story that is so engagingly and entertainingly told by a preeminent expert in the field."---Angus McCullough, Entomologist's Monthly Magazine"[A] beautifully written exposition of the fascinating details of honey bee behaviour, physiology, genetics and interplay with the environment."---Peter Neerup Buhl, International Journal of Environment Studies"Seeley is truly a wonderful science writer, and one of the best at synthesizing information from honey bee studies conducted across the globe . . . His ability to communicate his science, and the science of others into common themes makes his books a pleasure to read for both academics and general readers alike."---Cory S. Sheffield, Bulletin of the Entomological Society of Canada"This is an excellent book, and one I would recommend to all beekeepers, not to mention anyone with a fascination for this amazing little insect."---Amanda Williams, Buzz About Bees

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"This book is a treasure trove."---David Skydmore, British Naturalists Association"[Honey Bee Biology is] chock full of up-to-date science on the biology, reproduction and feeding of honey bees."---Geoff Carpentier, North Durham Nature"The perfect companion for a honey bee biology class!" * Choice *"Honey Bee Biology will become the new definitive textbook for entomology courses, research scientists, science writers, and scientists interested in bees as a model system. Beekeeping teachers and keen students will buy this book as will the curious beekeeper just wanting to learn new things and be a better beekeeper."---Ann Chilcott, British Beekeepers’ Association News"A comprehensive compilation of new science."---Lynfa Davies, Bee Craft"The most comprehensive and up-to-date general reference book on Honeybee biology." * the Buzz *

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Book SynopsisTo date, more than a million insect species have been described, with probably at least another 5-8 million species waiting in the wings for a name. Insects are a fascinatingly diverse and beautiful spectrum of animals. They range in size from the tiny parasitic wasp, measuring a mere 139m, to the aptly named Titan beetle, which can reach lengths of up to 17cm. They can be found on all continents of the world, from the Sahara Desert to the frozen wastes of Antarctica; in caves, under the ground, inside plants, other insects and vertebrates, in rivers, streams, lakes and ponds, in puddles, in the watery interiors of pitcher plants; and in our houses. While no insects live beneath the waves, the intrepid sea skaters skim the surface of some of the world''s oceans.This Very Short Introduction explores the extraordinary world of insects. It analyses insect evolution, taxonomy and development, and describes their behaviour, their life styles, and the interactions they have with other insects and other animals. As Simon Leather shows, insects are the bedrock on which human civilisation rests; without them we would almost certainly not exist. Although they can be seen as pests of our crops plants, they are also invaluable for pollinating our flowering plants and are an invaluable link in all land ecosystems. As they face challenges from climate change and pesticides it has never been more important to understand these oft-dismissed creatures.Very Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, Inspiring 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.Trade ReviewThis excellent primer can be recommended to all insect enthusiasts, particularly those who advocate the value of insects. * Marco Ferrante, Community Ecology *This excellent primer can be recommended to all insect enthusiasts, particularly those who advocate the value of insects. * Community Ecology *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1: In the beginning 2: Prolific procreators - reproduction and host selection 3: On the move - finding somewhere to live and something to eat 4: Living together - social insects, parental care, mutualism 5: Aquatic insects - skaters, divers, and bottom dwellers 6: Mimicry, crypsis, and blatant advertising 7: Against the odds - behaviour and survival in extreme conditions 8: The good, the bad, and the ugly - how insects help and hinder us 9: Ecological Armageddon - insects in decline? References Further Reading Index

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Book SynopsisComprehensive illustrated encyclopedia of the world's coleoptera featuring 4,500 colour photographs and authoritative text.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisTable of Contents1. Introduction to ticks 2. Tick classification and anatomy 3. The tick life cycle 4. Blood feeding as a life choice 5. Tick saliva 6. Tick and tick-borne disease distribution 7. Tick-borne diseases of humans 8. Tick-borne diseases of animals 9. The tick microbiome 10. Ticks and climate change 11. Controlling ticks and tick-borne diseases 12. Conclusions

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Book SynopsisPopular natural history periodicals in the nineteenth century had an incredible democratizing power. Making Entomologists reassesses the landscape of science participation in the nineteenth century, offering a more nuanced analysis of the supposed amateur-professional divide that resonates with the rise of citizen science today.

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Book SynopsisA CHOICE Recommended title 2025This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the principles, methods and applications of chemical ecology, covering such topics as chemical signalling, predatorâprey interactions, host plant selection and chemical defence. The book takes the reader through the historical development of the discipline to current state-of-the-art research, delving into recent findings on the role of chemical ecology in conservation and management and exploring how the field may contribute to future innovations in ecological science. A chapter is dedicated to the techniques that have been used in chemical ecology and some success stories.Chemical Ecology: Insect-Plant Interactions is an important resource for advanced undergraduates and postgraduate researchers as well as practitioners in this interdisciplinary field. The bookâs layout aligns with the curriculum of chemical-ecology-related disciplines, progressing from basic fundamental principles to a more advanced level. Those studying and researching in ecology, entomology, plant biology and biochemistry will find it invaluable as well as those practising in areas such as agriculture, forestry and pest management.

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Book SynopsisInsects represent over half of the planet's biological diversity. This textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to this extraordinary diversity, and places entomology central to the theory and practice of evolutionary and ecological studies. It opens with a chapter concerning the popular side of insect studies.Trade Review“Overall I am delighted to see that the 5th edition of this textbook has retained the format and style that so attracted me to entomology some 20 years ago. At the same time, each edition, and the 5th edition is no exception in this, has responded to developments in technology and concerns that drive the field of entomology. I am delighted to see that I will have no hesitation in recommending the latest edition of this textbook to our students.” (Antenna, 1 January 2015) “Penny Gullan and Peter Cranston have recently produced a revised fifth version of their text, maintaining much of the structure and style of the former editions, but significantly updating the information and adding a chapter on human-mediated changes in insect distributions; i.e. global climate change, globalized commerce, and invasive insects. . . The book is supported by a companion website that includes Powerpoint versions of all illustrations and PDFs of all tables, thereby aiding lecture development. By significantly updating the information presented in the book, the authors amply illustrate the dynamic nature of Entomology. Insects can capture the imagination of new students, but showing those students that Entomology can sustain an exciting life is the means to recruit the ablest minds to our discipline. This book is an excellent ambassador to that pursuit.” (Cornell University Insect Collection, 8 December 2014)"Gullan and Cranston’s fifth edition is a textbook that should be on every entomologist’s shelf. I also highly recommend this exemplary book to instructors teaching insect biology and related courses, and any student interested in the life sciences. The remarkable range of content, coupled with the resources to support learning,is exceptional. It is a comprehensive introduction to insect science that keeps the pace with a dynamic, diverse, and fast-moving field." (American Entomologist 2016)Table of ContentsList of Colour Plates ix List of Boxes xiii Preface to the fifth edition xv Preface to the fourth edition xvii Preface to the third edition xix Preface to the second edition xxi Preface and acknowledgments for first edition xxiii About the companion website xxv 1 The Importance Diversity and Conservation of Insects 1 1.1 What is entomology? 2 1.2 The importance of insects 2 1.3 Insect biodiversity 6 1.4 Naming and classification of insects 10 1.5 Insects in popular culture and commerce 11 1.6 Culturing insects 13 1.7 Insect conservation 14 1.8 Insects as food 20 Further reading 25 2 External Anatomy 26 2.1 The cuticle 27 2.2 Segmentation and tagmosis 33 2.3 The head 35 2.4 The thorax 45 2.5 The abdomen 52 Further reading 55 3 Internal Anatomy and Physiology 56 3.1 Muscles and locomotion 57 3.2 The nervous system and co-ordination 63 3.3 The endocrine system and the function of hormones 66 3.4 The circulatory system 69 3.5 The tracheal system and gas exchange 73 3.6 The gut digestion and nutrition 77 3.7 The excretory system and waste disposal 86 3.8 Reproductive organs 90 Further reading 93 4 Sensory Systems and Behaviour 95 4.1 Mechanical stimuli 96 4.2 Thermal stimuli 105 4.3 Chemical stimuli 107 4.4 Insect vision 117 4.5 Insect behaviour 122 Further reading 124 5 Reproduction 125 5.1 Bringing the sexes together 126 5.2 Courtship 128 5.3 Sexual selection 128 5.4 Copulation 131 5.5 Diversity in genitalic morphology 136 5.6 Sperm storage fertilization and sex determination 139 5.7 Sperm competition 140 5.8 Oviparity (egg-laying) 144 5.9 Ovoviviparity and viviparity 150 5.10 Other modes of reproduction 150 5.11 Physiological control of reproduction 153 Further reading 154 6 Insect Development and Life Histories 156 6.1 Growth 157 6.2 Life-history patterns and phases 158 6.3 Process and control of moulting 169 6.4 Voltinism 172 6.5 Diapause 173 6.6 Dealing with environmental extremes 174 6.7 Migration 178 6.8 Polymorphism and polyphenism 180 6.9 Age-grading 181 6.10 Environmental effects on development 183 Further reading 188 7 Insect Systematics: Phylogeny and Classification 190 7.1 Systematics 191 7.2 The extant Hexapoda 201 7.3 Informal group Entognatha: Collembola (springtails) Diplura (diplurans) and Protura (proturans) 202 7.4 Class Insecta (true insects) 203 Further reading 224 8 Insect Evolution And Biogeography 227 8.1 Relationships of the Hexapoda to other Arthropoda 228 8.2 The antiquity of insects 229 8.3 Were the first insects aquatic or terrestrial? 236 8.4 Evolution of wings 238 8.5 Evolution of metamorphosis 241 8.6 Insect diversification 242 8.7 Insect biogeography 244 8.8 Insect evolution in the Pacific 245 Further reading 247 9 Ground-dwelling Insects 249 9.1 Insects of litter and soil 250 9.2 Insects and dead trees or decaying wood 260 9.3 Insects and dung 261 9.4 Insect–carrion interactions 264 9.5 Insect–fungal interactions 265 9.6 Cavernicolous insects 268 9.7 Environmental monitoring using ground-dwelling hexapods 268 Further reading 270 10 Aquatic Insects 271 10.1 Taxonomic distribution and terminology 272 10.2 The evolution of aquatic lifestyles 275 10.3 Aquatic insects and their oxygen supplies 277 10.4 The aquatic environment 282 10.5 Environmental monitoring using aquatic insects 284 10.6 Functional feeding groups 285 10.7 Insects of temporary waterbodies 286 10.8 Insects of the marine intertidal and littoral zones 287 Further reading 288 11 Insects and Plants 289 11.1 Coevolutionary interactions between insects and plants 291 11.2 Phytophagy (or herbivory) 293 11.3 Insects and plant reproductive biology 313 11.4 Insects that live mutualistically in specialized plant structures 318 Further reading 320 12 Insect Societies 322 12.1 Subsociality in insects 323 12.2 Eusociality in insects 327 12.3 Inquilines and parasites of social insects 345 12.4 Evolution and maintenance of eusociality 348 12.5 Success of social insects 351 Further reading 353 13 Insect Predation and Parasitism 354 13.1 Prey/host location 355 13.2 Prey/host acceptance and manipulation 361 13.3 Prey/host selection and specificity 364 13.4 Population biology – predator/parasitoid and prey/host abundance 372 13.5 The evolutionary success of insect predation and parasitism 375 Further reading 376 14 Insect Defence 377 14.1 Defence by hiding 379 14.2 Secondary lines of defence 380 14.3 Mechanical defences 382 14.4 Chemical defences 384 14.5 Defence by mimicry 388 14.6 Collective defences in gregarious and social insects 392 Further reading 396 15 Medical and Veterinary Entomology 397 15.1 Insects as causes and vectors of disease 398 15.2 Generalized disease cycles 399 15.3 Pathogens 399 15.4 Forensic entomology 413 15.5 Insect nuisance and phobia 414 15.6 Venoms and allergens 416 Further reading 417 16 Pest Management 418 16.1 Insects as pests 419 16.2 The effects of insecticides 425 16.3 Integrated pest management 428 16.4 Chemical control 429 16.5 Biological control 435 16.6 Host-plant resistance to insects 447 16.7 Physical control 451 16.8 Cultural control 451 16.9 Pheromones and other insect attractants 452 16.10 Genetic manipulation of insect pests 454 Further reading 455 17 Insects in a Changing World 457 17.1 Models of change 458 17.2 Economically significant insects under climate change 463 17.3 Implications of climate change for insect biodiversity and conservation 467 17.4 Global trade and insects 468 Further reading 473 18 Methods in Entomology: Collecting Preservation Curation and Identification 474 18.1 Collection 475 18.2 Preservation and curation 478 18.3 Identification 488 Further reading 491 Taxoboxes 493 1 Entognatha: non-insect hexapods (Collembola Diplura and Protura) 493 2 Archaeognatha (Microcoryphia; archaeognathans or bristletails) 495 3 Zygentoma (silverfish) 496 4 Ephemeroptera (mayflies) 497 5 Odonata (damselflies and dragonflies) 498 6 Plecoptera (stoneflies) 500 7 Dermaptera (earwigs) 500 8 Zoraptera (zorapterans or angel insects) 501 9 Orthoptera (grasshoppers locusts katydids and crickets) 502 10 Embioptera (Embiidina Emboidea; embiopterans or webspinners) 503 11 Phasmatodea (phasmids stick-insects or walking sticks) 503 12 Grylloblattodea (Grylloblattaria or Notoptera; grylloblattids ice crawlers or rock crawlers) 504 13 Mantophasmatodea (heelwalkers) 505 14 Mantodea (mantids mantises or praying mantids) 506 15 Blattodea: roach families (cockroaches or roaches) 507 16 Blattodea: epifamily Termitoidae (former order Isoptera; termites “white ants”) 508 17 Psocodea: “Psocoptera” (bark lice and book lice) 509 18 Psocodea: “Phthiraptera” (chewing lice and sucking lice) 510 19 Thysanoptera (thrips) 511 20 Hemiptera (bugs moss bugs cicadas leafhoppers planthoppers spittle bugs treehoppers aphids jumping plant lice scale insects and whiteflies) 512 21 Neuropterida: Neuroptera (lacewings owlflies and antlions) Megaloptera (alderflies dobsonflies and fishflies) and Raphidioptera (snakeflies) 514 22 Coleoptera (beetles) 516 23 Strepsiptera (strepsipterans) 517 24 Diptera (true flies) 519 25 Mecoptera (hangingflies scorpionflies and snowfleas) 520 26 Siphonaptera (fleas) 521 27 Trichoptera (caddisflies) 522 28 Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) 523 29 Hymenoptera (ants bees wasps sawflies and wood wasps) 524 Glossary 526 References 555 Index 563 Appendix: A reference guide to orders 589

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Book SynopsisThe Royal Entomological Society (RES) and Wiley-Blackwell are proud to present this landmark publication, celebrating the wonderful diversity of the insects of the British Isles, and the work of the RES (founded 1833).Trade Review“A remarkable book, and at a remarkable price . . . It should be available in all field centres and field stations where ecological studies and teaching take place. Further, for the general naturalist, it will be an eye-opener to the diversity of insects even within the British Isles and something they will wish to have to hand on their shelves. It can be unreservedly recommended.” (Biodiversity and Conservation, 1 October 2012) “Anyone who wants to know more about British insects will need this major reference, as it refers to all the latest literature and includes websites of note at the end of many orders. This really is an excellent tome, either as a coffee table book or as an up-to-date reference book that does not cost the earth.” (Reference Reviews, 1 December 2012) “However, this is a very minor point and it is a magnifi cent work which, if nothing else, shows where the gaps in our knowledge are and, hopefully, will encourage future entomologists to fi ll them. The author is to be congratulated!.” (British Ecological Society Bulletin, 1 March 2012) “Recommended. Only comprehensive entomology collections serving general readers and undergraduate students.” (Choice, 1 March 2012) “Celebrating the work of the Royal Entomological Society (RES) founded in 1833, and the wonderful diversity of the insects of the British Isles, this book is a key reference work for students and amateur entomologists, as well as a comprehensive information source for professionals.” (Wildlife, 2012) "British Insects is destined to become the standard reference and the starting point for any investigation of the British insect fauna. It will be an essential addition to the libraries of Universities, research centres, natural historians and academics ... These combine to form a wonderful package that should inspire a new generation of entomologists and natural historians. Sonia Copeland Bloom and the A.E.S. are to be congratulated on a winning formula. Every school in the UK should have a set." (Antenna Review, 2012) "In this introduction to this book on insects, Peter Barnard makes a very good point about sharing of knowledge." (Science Spin, 1 January 2012) "Generally, the book is very readable, beautifully illustrated and very informative for those who are not primarily interested in morphology, phylogeny and evolutionary history. It can be recommended to amateurs and to all those who want to make themselves familiar with the rich and exceptionally well-investigated fauna of the British Islands." (Journal Zoological Systematics & Evolutionary Research, 2011) "These points are perhaps carping: the book is welcome, a fine achievement, and will assuredly be a classic in entomological publishing in Britain." (Journal Insect Conserv, 2011) "This really is an excellent book. Printed to the highest standards with a huge collection of excellent photographs, it can stand alone as a coffee table book, or as the most up-to-date reference book to this broad taxa published. For such a lavish book, I would say (even for a poor student like myself) that the price is certainly worth it. I can see this being at my right hand side for many years to come." (The Amateur Naturalist magazine, 2011) "A thorough introduction to the insects of Britain!." (Guardian.co.uk, 30 October 2011) "I have on my desk a copy of the newly published The Royal Entomological Society Book of British Insects by Peter C. Barnard, and it will make your head spin as much as anything Stephen Hawking ever wrote. It takes you through all 558 families of British insect; as a comparison, there are only 153 families of mammals in the entire world. It is a master-word of completeness; it includes 6,600 genera and 24,000 species – of which only 55 have protected status. As you look at insects you cease to see biodiversity as something weird or amusing or defined by collections. You understand that biodiversity is fundamental. It is nothing less than the way that life on earth works. Making more and more and more different kinds of things is the basic mechanism of life. You can reach this conclusion by turning to any page of this marvelous book." Simon Barnes, Wild Notebook, (The Times, 8 October 2011)Table of ContentsPreface vii Foreword by Quentin D. Wheeler ix Acknowledgements xi 1 General introduction 1 PART 1 ENTOGNATHA 17 2 Order Collembola: the springtails 19 3 Order Diplura: the two-tailed or two-pronged bristletails 25 4 Order Protura: the proturans 27 PART 2 INSECTA – 'APTERYGOTA' 29 5 Order Archaeognatha or Microcoryphia: the bristletails 31 6 Order Zygentoma: the silverfi sh and fi rebrats 33 PART 3 PALAEOPTERA 35 7 Order Ephemeroptera: the mayflies or upwing flies 37 8 Order Odonata: the dragonflies and damselflies 42 PART 4 POLYNEOPTERA 49 9 Order Dermaptera: the earwigs 51 10 Order Dictyoptera: the cockroaches, termites and mantids 54 11 Order Orthoptera: the grasshoppers, crickets and bush-crickets 57 12 Order Phasmida: the stick-insects 64 13 Order Plecoptera: the stoneflies 67 PART 5 PARANEOPTERA 71 14 Order Hemiptera: the true bugs 73 15 Order Phthiraptera: the sucking and biting lice 106 16 Order Psocoptera: the booklice and barklice 112 17 Order Thysanoptera: the thrips 118 PART 6 ENDOPTERYGOTA 123 18 Order Coleoptera: the beetles 125 19 Order Diptera: the true flies 177 20 Order Hymenoptera: the ants, bees and wasps 226 21 Order Lepidoptera: the butterflies and moths 268 22 Order Mecoptera: the scorpionflies 308 23 Order Megaloptera: the alderflies 311 24 Order Neuroptera: the lacewings 313 25 Order Raphidioptera: the snakeflies 317 26 Order Siphonaptera: the fleas 319 27 Order Strepsiptera: the stylops 323 28 Order Trichoptera: the caddisflies or sedge flies 326 Index to taxa 337

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Book SynopsisWith over 100 colour photographs and illustrations, Raising Resilient Bees is the comprehensive source for new and experienced beekeepers, offering a sustainable, natural and repeatable model of care for hive health and production. Global pests and diseases present an unprecedented challenge for the modern honey bee. Hobby and commercial beekeepers alike continue to experience troubling rates of mortality for their colonies, with potentially deleterious consequences for the stability of our wider ecosystems and overall food security. It is time for a global focus on restoring the health of the shared apiary by naturally rearing genetically diverse and resilient lines of bees. Raising Resilient Bees establishes these parameters and provides guidance for new and experienced beekeepers alike to translate these goals into real practice, thereby safeguarding the honey bee from the unknown threats of the future. Authors Eric and Joy McEwen take two decades worth of beekeeping experience, experiments and professional production to deliver groundbreaking methods in queen-rearing, varroa mite management and Natural Nest hive design. Inside, you’ll discover: Revived and adapted heritage Integrated Pest Management techniques How to naturally rear queens and select for resilient, mite-resistant genetic lines without relying on swarming or grafting Key tenets of apicentric beekeeping Advice for establishing a flourishing and sustainable business with beekeeping at the centre How to naturally rear bees with distinctive characteristics suitable to their locale As in large-scale agriculture, the trend toward genetic homogenization is having long-term implications for bees’ capacity to withstand diverse environmental stressors. With expert advice, enthusiasm and easy-to-follow instructions, Raising Resilient Bees delivers important and timely information for every beekeeper to create a healthier future.Trade Review"Right from the start, this book takes you on a journey that is fascinating and thought-provoking. . . The McEwens demonstrate creative, out-of-the-box thinking and challenge traditional ways of keeping bees."—American Bee Journal"Raising Resilient Bees challenges accepted practices in commercial beekeeping, based on decades of experience on an organic farm. . . [It's] inspiring. It will strike a chord with those who feel an instinctive love for the land and a desire to follow the most harm-free practices in agriculture."—Foreword Reviews“Beekeepers and the bee-curious alike will revel in this fresh offering from long-time honey bee stewards Eric and Joy McEwen. In a conversational and approachable fashion, this husband-and-wife team gracefully offers up solutions to some of the most difficult contemporary beekeeping problems. Beautiful photos and colorful illustrations provide vital basics for those new to the craft, as well as creative ideas for advanced beekeepers to mull over. Opening this book is opening a window into a resilient and regenerative beekeeping operation. Your bees will thank you for it.”—Sarah Red-Laird, founder and executive program director, the Bee Girl Organization (BGO); past president, Western Apicultural Society “Joy and Eric McEwen give a vivid, practical, evidence-based demonstration of how a commercial beekeeping enterprise of over 600 hives can work in a way that is more ecologically sustainable and bee-friendly, while remaining profitable enough to support a family and employees. Biodynamic and organic beekeepers will applaud the authors’ use of ‘Natural Nest’ hives with single-size boxes and vertically uninterrupted brood nests, populated with locally adapted bees and naturally reared queens.”—David Heaf, author of The Bee-Friendly Beekeeper; bee-friendly.co.uk“Raising Resilient Bees offered me a new way to consider honey bees. My previous framework was borrowed from Dr. Tom Seeley, who looked at the honey bee colony as a whole; something more than just individuals strung together. Eric and Joy McEwen have taken this a step further with their concept of the ‘hive bee-ing,’ which is not just the colony but also the environment in which it is housed and with which it interacts intimately. The McEwens look at every aspect of a honey bee’s life in this book—pest and disease issues, living space, the genetics of resistance and tolerance, qualities of successful queens, optimal feeding, and seasonal management that prioritizes the bee above the beekeeper. Resilience means being adaptable—finding new and better solutions to old problems. Adaptability. That is the best quality a honey bee, and a beekeeper, can have.”—Kim Flottum, author of The Backyard Beekeeper; host, Beekeeping Today Podcast “Raising Resilient Bees shares the McEwens’ quest and commitment to steward bees respectfully and responsibly. This guide is a mellifluous manifesto that touches upon the diversity and majesty of what it means to work in tandem with our honey bee relatives and Mother Nature. May stewards near and far find inspiration and motivation in the McEwens’ path of purpose, and may they learn to nurture their own beekeeping journeys through the Diggin’ Livin’ teachings.”—Melanie M. Kirby, founder and director, Adaptive Bee Breeders Alliance “Raising Resilient Bees is a comprehensive guide to beekeeping that emphasizes sustainable and ethical practices. Drawing on their years of experience as beekeepers and farmers, the McEwens offer practical advice on everything from setting up a hive to harvesting honey. This isn’t just a how-to manual. This book also explores the important roles bees play in our ecosystems and the threats they face, as well as guidance on how to support and protect these crucial pollinators. Raising Resilient Bees is a must-read for anyone interested in beekeeping, sustainability, and the natural world.”—Penny Livingston, permaculturist, beekeeper, and educator “Eric and Joy are a rare breed; professional beekeepers taking a creative and nuanced approach to commercial beekeeping. In Raising Resilient Bees, they consider the entire cycle of the professional beekeeper’s life and work with a sustainable focus, from sourcing salvaged timber for beehives to breeding locally adapted bees, modifying conventional hive designs to crafting high-value bee products. Eric and Joy’s hard work and deep commitment to learning from their bees and the local environment will be an inspiration to any aspiring beekeeper and to those wishing to transition to more sustainable practices.”—Tim Malfroy, owner, Malfroy’s Gold and Natural Beekeeping Australia“Much akin to the wondrous distillation that honey bees perform while alchemizing nectar from flowers into concentrated pearls of sweet, nutritious, and healing honey, Joy and Eric have distilled decades of earnest, caring, and arduous work tending their apiaries into pearls of valuable wisdom. As a seed grower, I have long marveled at the unique cosmic dance between bee and flower that gives rise to the seed, and this book amplifies this sense of wonder. If you are holding this book in your hands, then I presume that you too will be grateful for this valuable contribution to the art and science of natural beekeeping.”—Don Tipping, farmer and seedsman, Siskiyou Seeds“In Raising Resilient Bees, Eric and Joy not only provide us with a bee-centric approach to beekeeping but also a human-centric one. As farmers, our desire to practice a method of agriculture that seeks to regenerate our natural systems and resources rather than exploit them requires us to consider how to bring our whole human selves to the task. Raising Resilient Bees is not just a how-to manual on holistic beekeeping for hobbyists and professionals alike, but a manifesto on how we, as humans, can practice respect, humility, and love, in service to the earth and each other.”—Beth Hoinacki, farmer, Goodfoot Farm; president of Demeter Advisory Board, Biodynamic Demeter Alliance“Few relationships are as complex, and indeed as agonized over, as that between humans, honey bees, and our shared environment. This lovely book—a detailed guide, an homage, and a story all in one—offers huge insight to anyone currently beekeeping or considering entering into that great interspecies relationship with a view beyond the purely economic. Rich in detail, photos, diagrams, and the authors’ learnings—often from their own challenging experiments in bee breeding and care—Raising Resilient Bees conveys the McEwens’ love for bees and their admirable desire to ensure that the lessons learned from their good and bad times help others. We never do stop learning, and this book, part of a great beekeeping canon, will contribute immensely to your own learning journey.”—Vicki Hird, writer and campaigner; author of Rebugging the Planet “In this important new handbook, Eric and Joy McEwen provide a comprehensive approach to the extraordinary world of beekeeping and honey production. These two long-time practitioners offer detail and instruction for both the commercial farm enterprise as well as the homestead producer. It is authoritative, delightfully readable, and will be a lifelong reference.”—Garry Stephenson, professor emeritus, Center for Small Farms & Community Food Systems, Oregon State University“A Jacqueline Freeman journey through some super solid information. Eric and Joy McEwen cover all the bee basics and the challenges one should expect when getting started with the species. They offer a very genuine depiction, through real-life experiences, of what it takes to manage bees sustainably. Raising Resilient Bees is a testament to regenerative beekeeping by way of responsible practices, understanding of place, and most of all, the appreciation of deep bee ecology.”—Rob Keller, Napa Valley Bee Co."Simply stated, Raising Resilient Bees: Heritage Techniques to Mitigate Mites, Preserve Locally Adapted Genetics, and Grow Your Apiary is essential reading for anyone who aspires to keep bees, and has a great deal of practical value as a resource for even the more experienced beekeeper. Nicely illustrated with color photographic images, informatively comprehensive, exceptionally 'reader friendly in organization and presentation, Raising Resilient Bees is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library bee keeping collections and as a textbook for supplemental Animal Husbandry and Entomology curriculum studies lists."—Midwest Book Review

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive, fully illustrated guide to the butterflies of Romania. A must-have in that country, and also extremely useful across Central, Eastern and Southeast Europe more widely.

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