Natural History Books

Book SynopsisA guide to the beetles of the United States and Canada east of the Mississippi River. It covers 1,400 species in all 115 families east of the Mississippi River. It presents information on identification, natural history, collecting, and geographic range for each species and family.Trade ReviewHonorable Mention for the 2015 National Outdoor Book Awards, Nature Guidebooks, NOBA Foundation "If you are interested in beetles, then this is a must have."--Roberta Gibson, Wild about Ants "Few entomologists are also skilled at writing for a general audience, but Evans makes it seem effortless. He has a real gift for simplifying concepts so that they are not intimidating to an amateur naturalist yet not condescending to veteran entomologists. The introductory section is as well-illustrated as the remainder of the book, and explains many puzzling physical features of beetles... In short, this is the most compact, affordable, comprehensive, and useful beetle book to come along since I can't remember when."--Bug Eric "'Beetle-maniacs' will adore this beautifully illustrated, comprehensive volume written by the renowned entomologist Arthur Evans. Those who don't realize beetles are such a fascinating topic will be happily surprised."--Catriona Tudor Erler, New York Journal of Books "Anyone east of the Mississippi with more than a passing interest in insects will want a copy. Now."--Bill Cannon, Scientist's Bookshelf "Stunning."--Dan Tallman's Bird Blog "Beetles of Eastern North America is an excellent book that will be much loved by field naturalists and entomologists alike, especially given its very modest price."--Robert F. Foster, Canadian Field-Naturalist "This guide is detailed, easy to use and nicely illustrated. It will open your eyes to these interesting little creatures, many of which are stunningly colorful and beautiful."--R. E. H., Wildlife ActivistTable of ContentsPreface 7 Acknowledgments 8 How to Use This Book 9 Classification 9 Key to Families 9 Family Diagnoses 9 Species Accounts 9 Species Identification 10 Introduction to Beetles 11 Beetle Anatomy 11 Behavior and Natural History 19 When and Where to Find Beetles 33 Observing and Photographing Beetles 36 Beetle Conservation and the Ethics of Collecting 38 Collecting and Preserving Beetles 39 Making a Beetle Collection 45 Keeping and Rearing Beetles in Captivity 49 Taking an Active Role in Beetle Research 52 Illustrated Key to the Common Beetle Families of Eastern North America 53 Beetles of Eastern North America 59 Reticulated beetles (Cupedidae) 60 Telephone-pole beetles (Micromalthidae) 61 Minute bog beetles (Sphaeriusidae) 62 Ground, tiger, and wrinkled bark beetles (Carabidae) 63 Whirligig beetles (Gyrinidae) 94 Crawling water beetles (Haliplidae) 96 Burrowing water beetles (Noteridae) 97 Predaceous diving beetles (Dytiscidae) 99 Water scavenger beetles (Hydrophilidae) 105 Clown beetles (Histeridae) 110 Minute moss beetles (Hydraenidae) 114 Featherwing beetles (Ptiliidae) 115 Primitive carrion beetles (Agyrtidae) 117 Round fungus beetles (Leiodidae) 118 Burying and carrion beetles (Silphidae) 120 Rove beetles (Staphylinidae) 124 Stag beetles (Lucanidae) 142 Bess beetles (Passalidae) 145 Enigmatic scarab beetles (Glaresidae) 146 Hide beetles (Trogidae) 147 Earth-boring scarab beetles (Geotrupidae) 149 Sand-loving scarab beetles (Ochodaeidae) 152 Scavenger and pill scarab beetles (Hybosoridae) 153 Bumble bee scarabs (Glaphyridae) 155 Scarab beetles (Scarabaeidae) 156 Plate-thigh beetles (Eucinetidae) 178 Minute beetles (Clambidae) 179 Marsh beetles (Scirtidae) 180 Cicada parasite beetles (Rhipiceridae) 183 Metallic wood-boring or jewel beetles (Buprestidae) 184 Pill or moss beetles (Byrrhidae) 195 Riffle beetles (Elmidae) 196 Long-toed water beetles (Dryopidae) 198 Travertine beetles (Lutrochidae) 200 Minute marsh-loving beetles (Limnichidae) 201 Variegated mud-loving beetles (Heteroceridae) 202 Water penny beetles (Psephenidae) 203 Ptilodactylid beetles (Ptilodactylidae) 204 Chelonariid beetles (Chelonariidae) 206 Callirhipid beetles (Callirhipidae) 207 Artematopodid beetles (Artematopodidae) 208 Rare click beetles (Cerophytidae) 209 False click beetles (Eucnemidae) 210 Throscid beetles (Throscidae) 211 Click beetles (Elateridae) 213 Net-winged beetles (Lycidae) 229 Glowworms (Phengodidae) 233 Fireflies, lightningbugs, and glowworms (Lampyridae) 234 False soldier and false firefly beetles (Omethidae) 237 Soldier beetles (Cantharidae) 238 Tooth-neck fungus beetles (Derodontidae) 243 Wounded-tree beetles (Nosodendridae) 244 Jacobsoniid beetles (Jacobsoniidae) 245 Skin beetles (Dermestidae) 246 Endecatomid beetles (Endecatomidae) 249 Bostrichid beetles (Bostrichidae) 250 Death-watch and spider beetles (Ptinidae) 252 Ship-timber beetles (Lymexylidae) 258 Bark-gnawing beetles and cadelles (Trogossitidae) 259 Checkered beetles (Cleridae) 263 Soft-winged flower beetles (Melyridae) 271 Fruitworm beetles (Byturidae) 274 Cryptic slime mold beetles (Sphindidae) 275 False skin beetles (Biphyllidae) 276 Pleasing fungus and lizard beetles (Erotylidae) 277 Root-eating beetles (Monotomidae) 281 Silken fungus beetles (Cryptophagidae) 283 Silvanid flat bark beetles (Silvanidae) 285 Flat bark beetles (Cucujidae) 288 Parasitic flat bark beetles (Passandridae) 289 Shining flower and shining mold beetles (Phalacridae) 290 Lined flat bark beetles (Laemophloeidae) 291 Short-winged flower beetles (Kateretidae) 293 Sap beetles (Nitidulidae) 295 Cybocephalid beetles (Cybocephalidae) 304 Palmetto beetles (Smicripidae) 305 Bothriderid beetles (Bothrideridae) 305 Minute bark beetles (Cerylonidae) 307 Handsome fungus beetles (Endomychidae) 308 Lady beetles (Coccinellidae) 311 Minute hooded and fungus beetles (Corylophidae) 320 Minute brown scavenger beetles (Latridiidae) 322 Hairy fungus beetles (Mycetophagidae) 323 Archeocrypticid beetles (Archeocrypticidae) 325 Minute tree-fungus beetles (Ciidae) 326 Polypore fungus beetles (Tetratomidae) 327 False darkling beetles (Melandryidae) 329 Tumbling flower beetles (Mordellidae) 333 Ripiphorid beetles (Ripiphoridae) 338 Zopherid beetles (Zopheridae) 340 Darkling beetles (Tenebrionidae) 344 Synchroa bark beetles (Synchroidae) 359 False longhorn beetles (Stenotrachelidae) 360 False blister beetles (Oedemeridae) 362 Blister beetles (Meloidae) 365 Palm and flower beetles (Mycteridae) 369 Conifer bark beetles (Boridae) 371 Dead log beetles (Pythidae) 372 Fire-colored beetles (Pyrochroidae) 373 Narrow-waisted bark beetles (Salpingidae) 376 Antlike flower beetles (Anthicidae) 377 Ischaliid beetles (Ischaliidae) 382 Antlike leaf beetles (Aderidae) 382 False flower beetles (Scraptiidae) 384 Disteniid longhorn beetles (Disteniidae) 387 Longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae) 388 Megalopodid leaf beetles (Megalopodidae) 428 Orsodacnid leaf beetles (Orsodacnidae) 429 Leaf and seed beetles (Chrysomelidae) 429 Pine flower snout beetles (Nemonychidae) 457 Fungus weevils (Anthribidae) 458 Cycad weevils (Belidae) 462 Leaf-rolling and thief weevils, and toothnose snout beetles (Attelabidae) 462 Straight-snouted and pear-shaped weevils (Brentidae) 466 Weevils, and snout, bark and ambrosia beetles (Curculionidae) 469 Appendix: Classification of the Beetles Covered in This Book 501 Glossary 523 Selected References and Resources 527 Photo and Illustration Credits 530 Index 537

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Book SynopsisElephants are as unique as people. They can be clever and curious or headstrong and impulsive, shy or sociable. Learn to know them as individuals as well as a species in this evocative account of years spent studying elephant behaviour in the wild.Watching a family out for a swim on a hot day, Dr Hannah Mumby notes grandmothers, mothers, sisters and children exchanging noisy greetings, a consistent stream of close-range vocalisations, intermittent touching, co-operative herding of babies and frequent stopping for snacks. A close and interconnected family. But in this family, the adults weigh several tons each and the babies wave trunks playfully at one another. This is a herd of elephants.That elephants are intelligent, sentient beings is common knowledge, but so much about their day-to-day lives and abilities remains unknown. How do they communicate with one another over seemingly impossible distances? How do males spend their lives once they have left their mothers' herds? And how muTrade Review‘Combining lyrical writing about trumpeting at sunset with a pop science sensibility, The Secret Lives of Elephants is both smart and elegant. Walking with these elephants, and with Hannah, will appeal to the Planet Earth viewer and the Robert Macfarlane reader in equal measure.’ Dan Jones, Sunday Times and New York Times bestselling author of The Plantagenets and The Templars. ‘The Secret Lives of Elephants is an informative and entertaining memoir, in which scientist Hannah Mumby details her experience researching elephants in Africa and Asia. She works alongside conservation giants like Iain Douglas-Hamilton while unearthing connections between elephant and human life histories – often in the midst of alarming spikes in poaching. With descriptive prose, Mumby transports readers to Kenya, Myanmar and South Africa, where she and her colleagues discover surprising facets of elephant behaviour and intelligence.’ BBC Wildlife magazine ‘A work of science and a labour of love … Mumby uninhibitedly pours herself in the book and her passion for elephants, and their conservation is refreshingly unapologetic … This softer edge that gives room to observations and anecdotes makes science accessible, while not compromising on its robustness. The author’s writing is simple and honest; and her voice eloquent and strong as she pens a fascinating insight on the most remarkable of animals: elephants.’ Mongabay-India

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Book SynopsisBeavers are widely recognised as a keystone species which play a pivotal role in riparian ecology. Their tree felling and dam building behaviours coupled with a suite of other activities create a wealth of living opportunities that are exploited by a range of other species. Numerous scientific studies demonstrate that beaver-generated living environments that are much richer in terms of both biodiversity and biomass than wetland environments from which they are absent. Emerging contemporary studies indicate clearly that the landscapes they create can afford sustainable, cost-effective remedies for water retention, flood alleviation, silt and chemical capture. Beaver activities, especially in highly modified environments, may be challenging to certain land use activities and landowners. Many trialled and tested methods to mitigate against these impacts, including a wide range of non-lethal management techniques, are regularly implemented across Europe and North America. Many of these techniques will be new to people, especially in areas where beavers are newly re-establishing. This handbook serves to discuss both the benefits and challenges in living with this species, and collates the wide range of techniques that can be implemented to mitigate any negative impacts. The authors of this handbook are all beaver experts and together they have a broad range of scientific knowledge and practical experience regarding the ecology, captive husbandry, veterinary science, pathology, reintroduction and management of beavers in both continental Europe and Britain.Trade ReviewThe authors of this handbook include many of the most significant names in beaver conservation in Europe, drawing on a wide range of experiences and perspectives, which gives this book great depth and insight.... For me, working on the River Otter Beaver Trial here in Devon, this book is already providing a quick reference guide which I’m finding easy to use and full of valuable information. It is well organised and referenced and will become vital for those managing land which beavers recolonise in the decades ahead. -- Mark Elliott * ECOS *... I recommend Eurasian Beaver Handbook for land managers, policy writers, and landowners interested in managing European landscapes that include, or may potentially include, beavers. ... Although this book focuses on the European beaver, practitioners in North America also could benefit from reading this book to compare management styles, tools, and techniques. -- Jimmy D. Taylor, USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, National Wildlife Research Center * Journal of Wildlife Management *Table of Contents1. Introduction 2. The history of beavers in Britain 3. Beaver biology and ecology 4. Legislation 5. Effects of beavers 6. Managing beaver impacts 7. Survey and monitoring 8. Learning to live with beavers Appendices References Index

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Book SynopsisA beautifully designed book full of creative ideas and fun activities to get your children outdoors, with a foreword by Chris Packham. Spending time outdoors and interacting with the elements gives our senses a host of stimuli that cannot be recreated indoors. Whether you're splashing in muddy puddles, making shelters, foraging blackberries, playing hide and seek or watching birds, experiencing the natural world reduces stress, makes us feel alive and lays critical foundations for a healthy developing brain. Learning with Nature is ideal for parents, teachers and youth workers looking to enrich children's learning through nature and teach them to enjoy and respect the great outdoors. Written by experienced Forest School practitioners, it is packed with more than 100 tried and tested games and activities suitable for groups of children aged between 3 and 16, which aim to help children develop key practical and social skills and gain a better awareness of the world. The booTrade ReviewLearnlng with Nature is a valuable resource to anyone with a passion to create this connection between children and the outside world. With 100 different game and activity ideas, forest school leaders, families, home schoolers, cubs, brownie, scout and guide leaders would all find something here. * Caroline Bennett, Westonbirt Magazine *This book will be invaluable to all gardeners who enjoy creating opportunities to get their younger family and friends excited about being in a garden. I thoroughly recommend it. * The Gardening Times *All three authors are experienced practitioners, and the book speaks with real authority.... The result is a book of outdoor ideas that just beg to be tried. * Make Wealth History *This is a truly inspirational book that will get you and your children running to be outside. * Cathi Pawon, Juno *A creative and easy to read guide of games and activities for the great outdoors which are suitable for all ages, from children of nursery age right through to adults. ... 6 out of 6 stars. * Sandra Kent, Families Magazine *Whether you are a parent or educator, Learning with Nature is full of ideas for fun in the great outdoors. It caters for children and young people of all ages and abilities – and comes with clear instructions and illustrations. So grab a copy, get your boots on, fill your backpack and head to your nearest wild (or not so wild) space for some playful adventures. * Tim Gill, Author of No Fear: Growing Up In A Risk Averse Society *I recommend this book to you all, so ‘get out, play and connect’! * John Cree, Chair of the Forest School Association *This wonderful new book aims to connect children with nature. Through a broad range of outdoor activities and games, young people are encouraged to engage their senses and interact with nature. This not only leads to a better understanding of the natural world but can also contribute to much broader agendas such as personal and social development. Most importantly, the activities are fun. It is through enjoyment and understanding that people will want to conserve and care for their environment and so I encourage everyone to give the book a try. * Andy Naylor, John Muir England Award Manager *This book enables key outdoor experiences to happen. It includes an exciting ‘toolkit’ of well-structured, engaging activities that will inspire, excite and encourage children to reconnect with nature – and to have a whole load of fun in the process! * Amanda Elmes, Learning, Outreach and Volunteer Lead, South Downs National Park Authority *Table of ContentsForeword by Chris Packham Introduction Looking after nature GAMES - Warm-ups - Plants and trees - Animals and birds - Sensory awareness - Team building - Wandering NATURALIST ACTIVITIES - Tool safety - Wild facts - Birds - Animals - Plants - Trees SEASONAL ACTIVITIES - Teas through the seasons - Spring - Summer - Autumn - Winter SURVIVAL ACTIVITIES - Foraging wild plants - Fire safety - Shelter - Water - Fire - Wild food Afterword by Jon Cree Author biographies Resources and bibliography Nature organisations Photograph credits Index

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Book Synopsis“The Sacred Balance has a beautiful spirit.”—E.O. WilsonWith a new foreword from Robin Wall Kimmerer, New York Times-bestselling author of Braiding Sweetgrass—and an afterword from Bill McKibben—this special 25th anniversary edition of a beloved bestseller invites readers to see ourselves as part of nature, not separate.The world is changing at a relentless pace. How can we slow down and act from a place of respect for all living things? The Sacred Balance shows us how.In this extensively updated new edition, David Suzuki reflects on the increasingly radical changes in science and nature—from the climate crisis to peak oil and the rise in clean energy—and examines what they mean for humankind. He also reflects on what we have learned by listening to Indigenous leaders, whose knowledge of the natural world is profound, and whose peoples are on the frontlines of protecting land and water around the world.Drawing on his own experiences and those of others who have put their beliefs into action, The Sacred Balance combines science, philosophy, spirituality, and Indigenous knowledge to offer concrete suggestions for creating an ecologically sustainable future by rediscovering and addressing humanity’s basic needs.Published in Partnership with the David Suzuki Institute

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Book SynopsisYour step-by-step guide to forming a deeper connection with animals. Do you love animals but wish you could understand what they're trying to tell you? Do some of their behaviours leave you baffled? In this book, world-renowned animal communicator Pea Horsley teaches you the essentials of animal communication to enable you to communicate intuitively with the animals you love. Pea leads you through grounding preparation processes to calm your body and release your mind, and then her effective five-step method to create a deep, spiritual connection with your animal.Drawing on her many years of experience teaching people to communicate with both wild and domesticated creatures, Pea's unique blend of exercises, affirmations and meditations will empower you to connect with all living beings. Communicating with animals is fun, profound and healing. It's the best thing you can do for both yourself and your animals, and will transform how you experience life.Trade Review‘I’m fascinated by just how much we don’t know about the amazing animals we share our lives with. I’ve been involved with dogs for the last 30 years and have currently five rescues in my life. They are all wonderful. I’m not as receptive as they are, but I’m learning. It’s why I’m going to study Pea Horsley’s extraordinary work and try to understand her great skills of communication. Even if a bit rubs off it will have been worth it. I heartily recommend this book.’– Peter Egan, Animal Advocate and Actor‘When we don’t know something we often fear or, perhaps worse, criticize and undermine it. Pea impressed me from the outset with animal communication by confirming that she doesn’t have all the answers. This same philosophy was how I grew up with the bears – and to this day our team and I don’t have all the answers, but connect with them in the desire to learn and be what they need us to be. Through Pea’s understanding, talent and patience, animals that are rarely given the benefit of the doubt in our often blinkered minds, are now listened to and increasingly understood. Pea takes us into the inspirational world of animal cognizance and spiritual honouring and we owe her our gratitude for helping us to communicate, understand, respect and revere all creatures – great and small – whose extraordinary world we share. As Pea asks: “Has your intuition crawled into a cave?” Yes I think it has and we must be brave enough now to crawl back into the light.’– Jill Robinson, MBE, Dr med vet hc, Hon LLD,Founder and CEO, Animals Asia Foundation‘Whether you live in the city with your adorable pets, or in the wild with prides of lions as I do, this delightful heart-warmingbook makes it clear that interspecies communicationis really obvious and simple, because it’s totally natural. The mind thinks but the heart knows, so this technique is about connecting heart-to-heart. In my vision of the future, all leaders will have mastered this subtle art, not only by speaking to the other inhabitants of this planet, but by respecting and acting upon what they receive in return. How else will we create a just and flourishing future.’– Linda Tucker, CEO Global White Lion Protection Trust and author of Mystery of the White Lions, Saving the White Lions and LionHearted Leadership‘This practical guide to communicating with animals contains a great deal of wisdom. I particularly enjoyed how the book placed animal communication in a broader spiritual context. For those with a truly open mind, this book is a treasure that can literally open up new worlds.’– Richard Thoburn, Founder, Burnie’s Foundation‘In Animal Communication Made Easy, Pea gives a simple, clear and concise guide to communicating with our animal friends. For anyone interested in learning how to have a deeper relationship with their own pets and in communicating with other animals, this is the perfect handbook – practical, factual and easy to follow.’– Dr Richard Allport MRCVS , VetMFHom, BV etMed‘Pea Horsley is the real deal. A book of this quality could allow individuals an opportunity to understand their animals with additional insight, enabling them to understand early pain onset, and allowing a more preventative, rather than reactive, approach to their health care.’– Julia Robertson, Founder, Galen Therapy Centre and Galen Myotherapy®‘Pea provides an easy-to-follow manual that covers all aspects of communication, from the basics through to full proficiency, and along the way helps us to avoid all the pitfalls, the biggest being lack of self-belief. I so enjoyed this chance to take a refresher course from this master communicator.’– Tom Farrington MVB, MRCVS , VetMFHom

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Book SynopsisZambia and Malawi are home to 240 known snake, lizard, terrapin, tortoise and crocodile species. Snakes and other Reptiles of Zambia and Malawi is the first field guide to describe every species of reptile known to occur in this region – including 14 endemics and several new discoveries. Comprehensive descriptions of each order, suborder, family, genus and species. Species descriptions cover identifying features, behaviour, prey and predators, reproduction, range, and danger to humans. Accounts are supported by stunning colour photographs and up-to-date distribution maps that draw on over 16,000 recorded observations. Dichotomous identification keys guide users to the correct genus and species. Introduction includes clear diagrams of morphological features and unpacks the region’s biogeography and diverse habitat types, different venom types and the basic principles of snakebite treatment. This comprehensive field guide – the first of its kind for the region – will appeal to both experienced herpetologists and nature enthusiasts in general. Sales points: Definitive guide to the 240 known reptile species of Zambia and Malawi; authoritative text by leaders in the field; up to date, including several new discoveries; supported by excellent colour photographs; accessible to both scientists and laypersons.

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Book SynopsisCan you imagine a world without bees? Did you know that dung beetles are awesome recyclers? Insects pollinate, recycle and are an important food source for many animals – they’re tiny but mighty superheroes of the animal kingdom. This is an anthology of children’s poems which will educate and excite youngsters about the fascinating world of insects. With factual notes alongside the poems, and black line illustrations.Table of ContentsQuestions for an entomologist by Myles McLeod; Insect Hotel by Kate O’Neil; Cabbage white by Becky Kleanthous; I by Becky Kleanthous; Moth by Elli Woollard; Not cricket by Elli Woollard; Termite by Elli Woollard; Ask a katydid by Celia Berrell; Rockin’ Bug Band by Diana Murray; True bugs are suckers by Celia Berrell; Life cycle by Susan Byrne; Fritillary by Stephen Bone; When a ladybird gets scared by Joanne Lloyd; Beetle Soup by Christy Mihaly; Dragonfly by Anita John; Picture a Beetle by Karen Horsley; Hercules the Beetle by Joanne Lloyd; Beetle Incantation by Lydia Syson; Song of the Dung Beetle by Elli Woollard; Our Planet by Susan Byrne; Name-calling by Elizabeth F. Hill; Unlikely Flight by Lydia Syson; The Coleoptera Ceilidh by Jane MacKenzie; Archie by Anneliese Emmans Dean; Pyrophorus noctilucus by Kate O’Neil; How to Be a Master Survivor (aka Cockroach) by Sharon Dalgleish; I am considering ants by M. V. Williams; Café Six by Kate O’Neil; Aerial Gymnast in the Clothes of a Clown by Robert Ensor; Yoga for Insects by Myles McLeod; Pond Dipping by Ros Woolner; Dazzling Dragonflies by Nina Hoole; Episyrphus balteatus by John Kitchen; Waggle Dance Navigation by Maureen Anderson; Shield Bug by Imogen Forster; Luna Moth by Christy Mihaly; The Change by Anneliese Emmans Dean; High Brown Fritillary by Rebecca Gethin; Flesh-fly by Anneliese Emmans Dean; How to recognise insects by Maureen Anderson; A pest’s request by Gabrielle Turner; Ruins by Richard Westcott; The Pond Skater Swagger by Helen Clare; Mayfly May by Chrissie Gittins; The Mayfly by Jane Mackenzie Can a Beetle Fly? by Karen Horsley; Interview with an entomologist; Write your own poem; Insect project ideas.

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Book SynopsisAloe vera isn't just for sunburns! The familiar gel from aloe vera plants has amazing antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that stretch far beyond skincare. From managing diabetes and fighting viruses to stimulating the immune system and preventing tumor growth, aloe vera is a miracle plant! Mahatma Gandhi even credited aloe vera with helping him maintain his strength through long periods of fasting!Millions of people are turning away from the harsh effects of modern solutions and back to the gentle but powerful benefits of nature’s oldest remedies. In her 101 Amazing Uses series, Susan Branson, a holistic nutritional consultant, expertly outlines 101 incredible uses for aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, ginger, essential oils, and more. Each book is divided into tabbed sections filled with a total of 101 easy-to-read, bite-sized benefits for everything from health to beauty to household cleaning. Promote healthy skin, reduce stress, boost your metabolism, tenderize meat, and more with these simple, accessible, natural solutions.

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Book SynopsisA House Rabbit Primer: Understanding and Caring for Your Companion Rabbit, 2nd Edition is a brand new, up-to-date edition of the critically acclaimed handbook covering all aspects of rabbit care for both new and experienced pet rabbit owners. Author Lucile C. Moore, Ph.D., provides pet rabbit owners with valuable information about the total care of their pet. Part one tells owners just what to expect from their new member of the family and gives detailed information on how to house, feed, and train a rabbit. Part two contains a comprehensive medical section, updated for the second edition. A House Rabbit Primer, 2nd Edition has been expanded to include more photos, new stories and care hints from experienced rabbit caretakers, and additional information on healthy rabbit diets. This new edition also features more detailed instructions on how to groom pet rabbits, as well as suggestions on how to care for special needs rabbits. In addition to up-to-date information on many rabbit diseases, there are tips on creating a first-aid kit for rabbits as well as providing emergency care. With more and more pet owners choosing to keep their rabbits indoors full time, this second edition of the guide beloved by rabbit owners around the world lays out practical information for making rabbits a healthy part of any family.Trade Review“This comprehensive manual covers everything readers need to know about keeping rabbits as pets in a well-organized and informative fashion. Moore holds a Ph.D. in biology with a specialty in animal behavior and has worked as a county rabbit superintendent. She also keeps eight rabbits as pets, which makes her qualified to write on the topic. Taking a practical approach, Moore acknowledges both the pleasures and the pitfalls of keeping rabbits as pets. After a brief history of the animal, she discusses the variety of breeds and their characteristics, supplies and cages, nutrition, behavior and communication, and health. Moore’s focus is strictly on pet rabbits kept in the home—she does not address large agricultural or breeding operations. Helpful appendixes include listings of rabbit health resources, shelters, and rabbit supply businesses. This book should be required reading for anyone interested in keeping pet rabbits and is recommended for public libraries.”—Library Journal “A House Rabbit Primer by Lucile C. Moore (Santa Monica Press; $15) is as complete a handbook as I’ve seen on these pets. Moore has a doctoral degree in biology with a specialty in animal behavior, and her experience shows, along with an obvious love for rabbits (she has eight of them as house pets). The book provides excellent advice on setting up a house rabbit, litter box training, proper feeding and health concerns. If you’ve never had a rabbit indoors before, Moore explains how rabbits think and why they act as they do.”—VeterinaryPartner.com “Lucile Moore’s book is a great addition to the bookshelf of any rabbit family, with all the information new caretakers need as well as information about behavior and communication that may be helpful for all.”—BunFun.com “This is a must-have reference book for anyone interested in or keeping rabbits as pets.”—Pet Radio Magazine “Includes everything you need to know about pet rabbits in one reader-friendly book.”—The Scratching Post/Long Beach Post

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Stuart reveals the vibrant lives of Pleistocene megafauna, driven extinct by climate change and human hunters. Can lessons from the past halt a sixth mass extinction?" * New Scientist, "Don't Miss" *"Woolly rhinos, mammoths, saber-toothed cats and other astounding animals once roamed the Earth. How did they live and what caused their extinction? This illustrated book delves into the world of the Pleistocene with lessons about our current conservation crises." * Bookseller *“Deft and entertaining, Vanished Giants reveals the ‘hugest, fiercest, and strangest’ Ice Age animals—mastodons, saber-toothed cats, immense ground sloths, and other odd, extinct creatures. Relaying research in an accessible way and with informative illustrations, this enthralling paleontology text discusses megafauna in order of geographic regions and in the context of disparate climates, habitats, and human settlements. . . . Stuart’s conclusions about global extinction patterns are as fascinating and complex as the species he examines themselves, and his reflections about how similar forces threaten so many large animals today makes this an important and captivating book.” -- Rachel Jagareski * Foreword Reviews *"Vanished Giants provides a fascinating introduction to the Ice Age biota and a judicious assessment of the nature and causes of the megafaunal extinctions during the last 100,000 years." * Metascience *“Clearly written by an author with a long pedigree working on these animals, this is an interesting overview of the Ice Age megafauna and its extinction in the Pleistocene and Holocene. Vanished Giants is superior to other books in the field in providing much more detail on the animals themselves. Stuart has produced thorough coverage of all the extinct megafauna with a description (usually with an illustration) and discussion of their lifestyles. He also discusses the debate on the causes of these extinctions, which for many years have been polarized into human-driven—often called the Blitzkrieg hypothesis—and climate-driven causes. It is a fascinating topic and surely one of the most intense ongoing debates in science, certainly in paleontology.” -- Paul Wignall, professor of paleoenvironments, University of Leeds“We are very quick to blame species decline on human action. Although this is certainly the cause today, it is not necessarily the case historically. Stuart raises the potential for more localized events, providing evidence of small meteorite impacts, hyperdisease, and more, for the decline of Ice Age megafaunal communities around the globe. This is fascinating. Stuart discusses different species and different regions that were affected, starting with Eurasia, then heading to North America, the most famous region with the most recognized species to go extinct: mammoth, ground sloth, camelids, sabretooth cats. The conclusions are broad because, as Stuart points out, there is not a straightforward answer to the question. The illustrations are superb, and with the sheer inclusivity of time, geography, and species covered, Vanished Giants really enhances the field. An excellent book.” -- Neil Gostling, lecturer in evolution and paleobiology, University of SouthamptonTable of Contents1 Introduction 2 Crises in the History of Life 3 The Ice Age and the Megafauna 4 Cold Case: The Search for the Ice Age Killer 5 Northern Eurasia: Woolly Rhinos, Cave Bears, and Giant Deer 6 North America: Mastodon, Ground Sloths, and Sabertooth Cats 7 South America: Ground Sloths and Glyptodonts 8 Sahul: Giant Marsupials, a Thunderbird, and a Huge Lizard 9 Madagascar: Giant Lemurs, Elephant Birds, and Dwarf Hippos 10 New Zealand: Land of the Moa 11 Island Megafauna 12 Megafaunal Survival: Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia 13 Summary and Conclusions: The Global Pattern of Megafaunal Extinctions Acknowledgments Appendix: Dating the Past Notes References Index

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Book SynopsisRichly illustrated with a luminous and informative collection of maps, photographs, and graphics, this atlas is the perfect companion for exploring the wonders of the universe as viewed from Earth.This expansive illustrated atlas invites readers to roam the night sky for constellations, planets and moons, eclipses, comets and meteor showers, auroras, and deep-sky treasures including nebulae and galaxies—many visible to the naked eye and all with binoculars or a backyard telescope.Beginning with basic space science and including a complete set of night sky maps for all four seasons in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, this fascinating book guides the reader toward the most rewarding observations. A unique chapter on astro-tourism highlights ancient observatories, dark-sky preserves, and other global destinations for the sky-seeking traveller; a final chapter details current and future space missions and what they might discover.Richly illus

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Book SynopsisKeep your thoughts and secrets safe and secure with this officially licensed JURASSIC WORLD lock and key diary. This diary features 192 lined pages, eight dinosaurs hidden in invisible ink throughout, and a magic light pen to help you discover them along the way.192 RULED PAGES: Whether you aspire to be the next great paleontologist, need a place to record your own discoveries, or want a private place to keep your personal thoughts and secrets secure, this lock and key diary provides you plenty of space for your writing needs. FIND DINOS HIDDEN WITH INVISIBLE INK!: Find eight different dinosaurs like T-Rex, Stegosaurus, and Ankylosaurus hidden throughout the pages of the diary in invisible ink. As you use the diary, keep an eye out for the dinosaur sighting mark! MAGIC PEN INCLUDED: Use the included magic UV light pen to reveal these amazing dinosaurs, their tracks, and more! LEARN DINO FACTS: An educational dinosaur sighting map of where these dinosaurs appeared in the United States is also included. UNDER LOCK & KEY: Keep your thoughts and secrets secure with this locked diary featuring two keys. Guaranteed to keep dinosaurs (and parents) out! CONVENIENT SIZE: This 5.25 x 6.5-inch journal is a compact size for travel and fits easily in a bag or backpack to take with you on the go. COLLECT THEM ALL: Collect more great stationery products inspired by Jurassic World, including the Jurassic World Enamel Charm Bookmark and Jurassic World: Raptor Book and 3D Wood Model. Jurassic World products from Insight Editions makes a thoughtful gift for any Jurassic World or dinosaur fan.

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Book SynopsisEsta es la primera guía completa de las 434 especies de aves marinas del mundo, tras la publicación de la guía de Harrison en 1983: Seabirds: An Identification Guide. Cubre todas las aves marinas conocidas, empezando con los patos marinos y somormujos y acabando con los cormoranes y pelícanos. Espléndidamente ilustrada y detallada, a lo largo de sus 600 páginas proporciona un tratamiento completo de todas las especies de aves marinas conocidas, incluidas las especies recientemente redescubiertas y raramente vistas.

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Book SynopsisThe essential map for all Moon watchers.The awesome beauty of the Moon is brought to life in this practical map for Moon watchers which locates, describes and indexes more than 500 physical features on the visible side of the moon. Who hasn't marvelled at the lunar landscape whether glancing up from Earth or being gripped by NASA imagery? Ever since the 1960s, when Neil Armstrong walked those first steps on the lunar surface, we have had a particular fascination with the Moon, but that grip goes back to the dawn of humanity. Our nearest neighbour in space, the Moon is hugely important due to its impact on tides and many other natural cycles that surround us, so to be able to look and read its landscape is especially revealing and valuable.With practical information on the best Moon watching techniques and tips, we capture both the magical and the practical aspects of lunar locations.· Superbly detailed map of the Moon's visible surface· 500 Moon features located on the map, with a clear index· Craters, seas, mountains, peaks and valleys· Landing sites of manned and unmanned spacecraft located· Helpful text aids the best effective moon watching· Plus map of the far side of the Moon as revealed by satellites· Maps drawn by lunar expert Dr. John Murray

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Book SynopsisIf you have tried to identify wildflowers, you'll already know exactly what is meant by the title of this book. Although a lot of plants are relatively straightforward to recognise, many others are not. Standard wildflower guides tend to provide as much guidance with identifying the easy and distinctive as they do with complex, tricky species. This ingenious book is designed to come to the rescue of the exasperated novice botanist and to help those more experienced who might be stuck on unfamiliar and complex groups. From willows to water-crowfoots, from eyebrights to dandelion look-a-likes, all of us have struggled with baffling specimens or the seemingly cryptic. Presented here is a fresh new approach to identifying difficult plants by giving an understanding of the biology behind their complexity. In simple language, you will be directed to the particular parts of the plant that you need to look at most closely. The tabular keys are more user friendly and evolutionarily valid than conventional dichotomous keys, which are often confusing and unwieldy. Each chapter contains illustrations of key diagnostic features, rather than of entire plants. Other novel aspects include coverage of the historical recognition of complexity within each group, which is used to inform debate about the level of resolution that may be most appropriate for your needs. This accessible guide is the perfect chance to get to grips with that challenging group you keep saving for 'next year' or for untangling a botanical mystery which keeps repeating itself.Table of ContentsForeword Preface Acknowledgments SECTION I. APOMICTIC SPECIES: SPECIES THAT PRODUCE SEEDS WITHOUT SEX 1 Brambles 2 Dandelions 3 Lady’s-mantles 4 Sea-lavenders 5 Whitebeams, rowans and service trees 6 Yellow composites – things that look a bit like a dandelion SECTION II. HYBRIDS: SPECIES THAT HAVE SEX WITH OTHER SPECIES 7 Docks and sorrels 8 Pondweeds 9 Roses 10 Marsh-orchids and spotted-orchids 11 Water-crowfoots 12 Willows SECTION III. INBREEDERS: SPECIES THAT HAVE SEX WITH THEMSELVES 13 Eyebrights 14 Fumitories 15 Violets and pansies 16 Short white-flowered crucifers: cresses 17 Tall yellow-flowered cabbages, mustards, rapes and rockets SECTION IV. POLYPLOIDS AND RAPIDLY EVOLVING SPECIES 18 Broomrapes 19 Forget-me-nots 20 Speedwells SECTION V. SUCCESSFUL FAMILIES WITH LOTS OF SPECIES 21 Dead-nettles, mints and woundworts 22 Blue and purple vetches and peas 23 Umbellifers: carrots, parsnips, Hemlock etc Glossary Index

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Book SynopsisThis bestselling journey into the world of the hummingbird is a treasure and a gift for birdwatchers, gardeners, and anyone who loves these amazing little creatures. Lavishly illustrated with 45+ original ink-and-watercolour illustrations of the species most commonly found in the US and Canada.

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

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Book SynopsisHave you ever wondered exactly what those ‘weeds’ are growing along the kerb or between the cracks in the pavement? Not the pampered plants of parks, front gardens and herbaceous borders, but simply those that exist everywhere and nowhere in particular: the true survivors, the botanical opportunists. In this handy guide, we introduce the most commonplace flowers, shrubs, grasses, mosses and ferns that are to be found on the street, and show the main characteristics by which you can recognise them. Soon you’ll be more alert than ever to the rebellious species of tarmac, wall and gutter as they defy weedkiller, climate change and dog wee. So you can identify the plants you discover in your town as readily as possible, the species are arranged according to their growth form. The book starts with the largest group – herbaceous plants – followed by a few woody plants, grasses, mosses and ferns. The first group is divided again according to flower colour: white, yellow, red/pink, blue/purple and green or brown. Within each colour, you will first find the flowers with a maximum of four petals, then those with five, then those with more than five and finally those with bilaterally symmetrical flowers. So you know quickly which group you are in, there are corresponding symbols in the profile at the bottom of each page. This ingenious little book is sure to enliven even the most mundane walk on the dreariest of days.

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Book SynopsisExplores our intertwined spiritual history with cats. We have been connected to cats for more than 30 million years. To our prehistoric ancestors cats were deadly predators of the night, and because of this ancient memory etched onto our DNA, cats epitomise our fear of the dark. Yet in addition to their connection to the dark and the shadows, their intelligence, sophisticated physical abilities, and finely tuned senses also led many cultures to view cats as connected to the spirit world. Exploring the spiritual nature of cats, John A. Rush looks at humanity’s fascination and fear of cats through the ages. He examines spiritual and occult beliefs connected to cats from Mayan, Aztec, and Native American mythology as well as from ancient India, Samaria, Babylon, Japan, and Egypt, including how ancient Egyptians used cats to send messages to the gods. He reveals why the Catholic Church demonised cats and how cats are symbols of both Good and Evil. Examining cat evolution, the author looks at spiritual behaviours attributed to cats as well as modern biological research into cat behaviour and their highly sophisticated sensory systems, which, unlike most other animals, have changed very little over millions of years. He explores their “psychic” ability to sense what humans cannot and the origins of their glowing eyes, which has connected cats, through myth, to both the Underworld and the World of Light. He also explores similarities between cat and human emotions, cat communications with us, and the deep connection between cats and meditation. Revealing the spiritual journey of the cat from fearsome predator to occult symbol to household companion, the author shows how, in many ways, cats are mirrors of us, reflecting our conflicting dual nature that is at once loving yet distant, magical yet vengeful, and above all, deeply connected to the spirit world.Trade Review“John A. Rush has created both a whimsical and deeply thought-provoking book about the mysterious creatures that humans refer to as cats. He thoughtfully explores the evolution of these highly intelligent psychic beings and their parallel journey with humans.” * Linda Star Wolf, Ph.D., author of Shamanic Breathwork *“John Rush writes about the diverse array of cat realms from a place of delightful passion and knowledge. One can never quite see cats the same way after reading this book. He weaves together mythology and science, history and spirituality, and cosmic and pop culture in order to aid the mass consciousness. Everyone who cares about drawing into complete harmony with the strength of a feline’s essence—or any living creature—should own a copy of Cats: Keepers of the Spirit World.” * Ruslana Remennikova, animal intuit, writer, and sound alchemist *“Shamanic shapeshifters of human consciousness—these wondrous four-legged demi-gods weave in and out of the astral plane influencing evolutionary growth on levels humans have yet to comprehend. Cats are the gatekeepers into our unconscious world, capable of entering into dimensions to impart magic and healing medicine in those spaces where wounds hide. They carry the secrets of the universe within their souls; lineages of many worlds rooted in tradition pass through them and onto their human caretakers. Their distinct meow is heard by every angel, as they walk through their existence embodying love and hope. They absorb darkness so that our light can shine over and over again and ask for nothing in return. May we honor them with the respect they truly deserve.” * Laura Aversano, author of Affirmations of the Light in Times of Darkness *Table of ContentsPreface 1.Sleeping Kittens, Crouching Tigers Connecting to Cats Defining Worship, Spirit, Spiritual, and Sacred Animals as Symbols of Nature, Both Good and Evil 2. Cat Evolution The Myth of Random Mutations and Life without Purpose The Myth of Natural Selection Endocellular Selection: Decision-Making and Purposeful Evolution Cat Evolution and Our Human Ancestors A Change in Beliefs 3. Cat Behaviors and Physiology Power NoiseTalking Corralling Making Bread or Pawing Territoriality Bonding Independence Rejection Staring into Space Stretching Hidden Places and Escape Routes Mating Behavior and Fertility Grooming Behavior 4. Animal Worship Few and Far Between What Is a God? Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism Uses of the Cat in Ancient Egypt 5. Issues of Cat Identity and Behavior in Spirituality Cave Art and Shamanism Writing and Early Concepts of the Cat Cats and the Italian Witch Characteristics of Cats Power Gate Guardians Fertility Night Vision Stealth, Cunning, and Wisdom Bringers of Good Luck Cat Talk, Purring, and Chanting Staring Tracking the Visible and Invisible Acrobatic Abilities Maintenance of Juvenile Characteristics Sleeping Vomiting Cats as Shamans, Tricksters, and Monsters More About the Monster-Cat The Americas—Real and Imagined Cats6. The Cat in Popular CultureShape-Shifting The TricksterConnection to the Underworld Matchmaker Adventure, Companionship, and Bonding Prop Warning Food and Oil/Fat CommercialsLocal Interest Cars, Cats, and Power7. Felines and the CosmosAncient Maya and AztecMiddle East Chinese Astrology and AstronomyAncient Egypt Divination at Home with Your CatCats, Spirituality, and the Quantum World ConclusionFear and Adaptation Folklore and Myth BibliographyIndex About the Author

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Book SynopsisReveals how we can learn from the intelligent communities of trees and plants. Breakthrough research is not only revealing a brilliant green world with amazing attributes like dispersed intelligence but also that humanity, like the tree and plant kingdom, thrives on innate cooperation, sharing, altruism, and community. Exploring the latest cutting-edge environmental and ecological studies, climate adviser and environmental advocate Judith Polich explains how we can now see how tree and plant communities function, revealing a holistic, interconnected, communal, and seemingly sentient new world. She explains how trees communicate, how they share resources, and other ways in which they express holistic and cooperative behaviours. Looking at the new scientific understanding of the evolutionary basis of altruism, cooperation, and community—and how these behaviours are genetically coded in our beings—the author examines the attributes we share with trees and other plant communities. She explores the healing powers offered by the plant kingdom, not just as medicines but through shared sentience that can help heal our sense of dissociation and disenchantment. Revealing how to see, think, imagine, and live with holistic eco-centric awareness, the author discusses how the stories we tell ourselves and our spiritual belief systems are becoming greener, including a resurgence of beliefs that originated with plant teachers. She also explores how to overcome our current cognitive biases through greater interaction with plant intelligence. By viewing the world through a greener lens, not only can we reframe and unravel the deeper causes of the climate crisis, but we can also help co-create a new more conscious world with our plant allies.Trade Review“Judith Polich has given us a magnificent gift in writing Why Can’t We Be More Like Trees? She brilliantly points out that we must awaken to the ancient indigenous wisdom that everything is alive, is conscious, and interconnected. In Why Can’t We Be More Like Trees? she inspires a more holistic approach to life through her emerging narratives and gets readers to think outside the box. Judith is so passionate about waking people to an entire new level of consciousness. A remarkable book written so beautifully, it has a healing energy that can be felt through every page.” * Sandra Ingerman, M.A., international shamanic teacher, coauthor of Speaking with Nature, and author *Table of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroduction 1 The Heart-Brain of the Forest2 Finding Our Place in Nature 3 How Nature Heals Us 4 Our Tree Connections 5 Greening Our Stories 6 Seeing with a Greener, More Humble Lens 7 Restoring, Rebalancing, Regreening PostscriptNotesBibliography Index

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Book SynopsisIdentify Alaska birds with this easy-to-use field guide, organized by color and featuring full-color photographs and helpful information. Make bird-watching in Alaska even more enjoyable. With Stan Tekiela’s famous bird guide, field identification is simple and informative. There’s no need to look through dozens of photos of birds that don’t live in your area. This handy book features 156 species of Alaska birds organized by color for ease of use. Full-page photographs present the species as you’ll see them in nature, and a “compare” feature helps you to decide between look-alikes. Inside you’ll find: 156 species: Only Alaska birds! Simple color guide: See a yellow bird? Go to the yellow section Stan’s Notes: Naturalist tidbits and facts Professional photos: Crisp, stunning images This second edition includes new species, updated photographs and range maps, expanded information, and even more of Stan’s expert insights. So grab the Birds of Alaska Field Guide for your next birding adventure—to help ensure that you positively identify the birds that you see.Table of ContentsIntroduction What’s New? Why Watch Birds in Alaska? Observe with a Strategy: Tips for Identifying Birds Bird Basics Bird Color Variables Bird Nests Who Builds the Nest? Fledging Why Birds Migrate How Do Birds Migrate? How to Use This Guide Range Maps Sample Pages The Birds Black Black and White Blue Brown Gray Green Orange Red White Yellow Birding on the Internet Checklist/Index by Species More for Alaska by Stan Tekiela About the Author

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Book SynopsisIsobel Lundie is a children's book illustrator living in Worthing. She works in two different styles, collage and pencil, which make her illustrations charming and perfect for kids books. She has worked on a range of books, including Sam and Sparky's Incredible Christmas, My First Animal Atlas, and the other two books in the Find My Favourite series.

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Book SynopsisAstronomy, especially naked-eye astronomy, is a wonderful way for children and young people to engage with the world and universe around them. Many children quickly become fascinated with stars, planets and comets, learning skills that also help them develop generally.This book is a perfect introduction to astronomy for any child, whether or not they have a telescope. It explains the visible constellations and then explores the sun, moon, planets, comets and meteorites. Colour illustrations and diagrams at every stage help children relate what they are reading to what they can see in the sky.Suitable for budding astronomers in both the northern and southern hemispheres, and in polar, temperate or tropical latitudes (i.e., everywhere), this is an ideal introduction the wonders of stargazing.Trade Review'From the rotation of the Earth to a constellation map to an image illustrating the spring equinox, the images help this book truly stand out… Students will appreciate this book for both its simplicity and depth, and so will more than a few adults. Reach for the stars, and add this one to nonfiction collections.'-- School Library Journal'It is a clearly illustrated excellent introduction to the night sky... Beautifully coloured, clear diagrams are there for each topic and included are some stunning photographs of particular phenomena.'-- New View'Expressed in clear language, it is accessible to an older child or any beginner and is a valuable resource for teachers, parents or any enthusiast... The author and Floris Books are to be congratulated on such a first-rate introduction.'-- New View'This book is very readable as well as being interesting. It is a book to read and re-read many times and it would be an invaluable guide for anyone who wished to find out more about astronomy.'-- Home Education Advisory Service Bulletin, Spring 2014'The production, appearance, and layout of the book are superb. Stand-alone boxes on various topics complement the main narrative and most chapters have an additional summary box.'-- The Observatory magazine

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Book SynopsisBooks in the A Practical Guide for Owners and Breeders series explore in detail all aspects of owning and caring for individual breeds of dog. Written in an accessible style, this book focuses on providing practical information about caring for your Golden Retriever, and will be an essential resource for all dog owners and professionals. Topics covered include Breed standard; choosing a puppy or rescue dog; care at every stage of life - puppy through to elderly dog; diet and training; healthcare and breed-specific health issues; breeding and whelping and showing.

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Book SynopsisWhat happens when a star dies? How many asteroids are in our solar system? Can galaxies collide? What is dark energy? Astronomy in Minutes answers all these questions and more as it condenses 200 key concepts into easily digestible essays. From Trojan asteroids to stellar black holes, and from superclusters to cosmic microwave background, this book will take you on an essential tour around the universe. Beginning with the specks and constellations that we see in the night sky, and then zooming in on the objects and 'matter' beyond the naked eye, Astronomy in Minutes draws on established theories and recent research. Each essay is accompanied by an image or a clear diagram to help unravel complex ideas. Beginning with the constellations and finishing with the latest cosmological theories, this is the perfect reference guide to this fascinating subject. Contents include: The celestial sphere, Piscis Austrinus, the Earth-Moon system, Io and Ganymede, Kuiper Belt Objects, Measuring stellar properties, Nuclear fusion, Red and orange dwarfs, Open star clusters, Planetary nebulae, Supernova remnants, Cosmic expansion, Quasars and blazars, Nature of spacetime, Nucleosynthesis and the Anthropic Principle.

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Book SynopsisMedicinal Plants of East Africa is the first photographically illustrated guide to showcase the most important healing plants of the region. The book describes 136 plant species in everyday use in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Brief descriptions of each species cover that plant’s appearance, ecology and specific medicinal uses. To aid identification, more than 600 colour photographs have been included. Also included are recipes for remedies to treat a wide range of ailments. An easy-to-understand summary of the science behind the treatments concludes each section. Supplementary features: Introduction to the medicinal virtues and active ingredients of plants; Common methods of preparing medicines from plant materials; Summary of ailments and the plants prescribed to treat them; Glossaries of medical and botanical terminology and extensive reference lists. Medicinal Plants of East Africa will appeal to ethnobotanists, health and wellness practitioners, travellers and all with an interest in the remarkable healing properties of plants. Sales Points: Easy ID with supporting colour photos; recipes for plant remedies; simplifies the science behind the natural medicines; accomplished author team.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"An authoritative and beautifully illustrated guide to marine reptiles. Informative text combined with stunning illustrations." * Everything Dinosaur *"The icing on this marine reptile cake is of course the artwork, specifically the skeletal reconstructions."---Leon Vlieger, Inquisitive Biologist ​​​​​​​"Recommended."---L.T. Spencer, Choice

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Book SynopsisKnowledge of bat echolocation and social calls, and identification using ultrasonic ‘bat detectors’ and sound analysis software, has grown significantly in the last decade. In this practical guide Jon Russ and contributors (Kate Barlow, Philip Briggs & Sandie Sowler) present the latest information in a clear and concise manner. The book covers topics including the properties of sound, how bats use sound, bat detectors and recording devices, analysis software, and call analysis. For each species found in the British Isles, information is given on distribution, emergence times, flight and foraging behaviour, habitat, echolocation calls including parameters for common measurements, and social calls. Calls are described in the context of the different technologies employed to record them (heterodyne, frequency division and time expansion). Various sonograms for each species are displayed in BatSound and AnaLookW. A species echolocation guide is included.Trade ReviewIt's safe to say, that I own many books on the subject of Bats. ... I can state here and now, (with certainty) that this book surpasses the others on its overall (up-to-date) content, and execution. In conclusion, the book is very well laid-out. It's very informative, and a fantastic reference, to re-visit again and again! ...Now if only a bat expert from the US (of Jon Russ' caliber) would publish a book similar to it (for North American species)...And soon! I'd be very happy! -- Al Milano * Bat Detector Reviews *Armed with this practical little book, researchers, surveyors and amateurs can go out into the night with the benefit of the knowledge and experience built up over the years by Russ and his colleagues. -- Andrew Branson * British Wildlife *Table of Contents1. Introduction 2. Bats and sound: Properties of sound; Signal acquisition; Representing and describing sound; How bats use sound 3. Equipment: Bat detectors; Recording sound 4. Call analysis: Sound analysis software; Automatic recognition software; Using sound analysis software; Measuring call parameters; AnalookW; Common analysis problems 5. Species echolocation guide 6. Species identification Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewTwitchers bound for Borneo... can enjoy Helm Field Guides' new additions ... Helm's exquisite eye for detail and intricate illustrations - hitting that sweet spot between art and practicality - make these welcome additions. A must-have for any globetrotting birders. * Wanderlust *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Introduction The habitats of Borneo The avifauna of Borneo Conservation How to use this book Topography Glossary Useful addresses Species accounts References Index

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Book SynopsisAimed at the general reader, Jurassic West, Second Edition recounts the discovery of many important Late Jurassic dinosaurs made at the famous bone beds of the Morrison Formation.Trade Review"A very well-written book. The prose flows easily; it is hard to stop reading once one starts. The presentation of scientific information is excellent. Rather than creating a synthesized story, Foster presents material in its true complexity without resorting to annoying speculation. . . . There is much to be learned from reading this book . . . Recommended." * Choice *"This book makes the discovery and science of dinosaurs easily accessible to a variety of audiences with differing backgrounds." -- Samantha Sands * American Paleontologist *". . . a valuable reference for Morrison specialists. It is a comprehensive, logically structured, well-illustrated, and extremely well-written book. . . . Foster's ability to incorporate such a large body of information, and yet make it accessible, interesting, and useful to a wide variety of readers, is a remarkable achievement." -- Jeffrey Martz * Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology *Table of ContentsForeword by Dale RussellPreface Preface to the Second EditionAcknowledgments List of Abbreviations1 Rainbow Country: An Introduction to Morrison Formation Geology 2 Setting the Stage: Vertebrates and the Jurassic World 3 The Start of it All: The Morrison Vertebrates Come to Light 4 Renaissance: The Picture Fills In 5 Fins, Scales, and Wings: The Morrison Menagerie, Part I 6 Gargantuan to Minuscule: The Morrison Menagerie, Part II 7 The Mess and the Magic: Vertebrate Paleoecology of the Morrison Formation 8 Many Rivers to Cross: A Late Jurassic Journey across the Morrison Floodplain Epilogue: The Morrison Fauna in World Context Appendix AAppendix BGlossaryNotes References Index

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Book SynopsisFew animals have a worse reputation than the vulture. But is it deserved? With Vulture, Katie Fallon offers an irresistible argument to the contrary, tracing a year in the life of a typical North American turkey vulture. Turkey vultures, also known as buzzards, are the most widely distributed and abundant scavenging birds of prey on the planet, found from central Canada to the southern tip of Argentina and nearly everywhere in between. Deftly drawing on the most up-to-date scientific papers and articles and weaving those in with interviews with world-renowned raptor and vulture experts and her own compelling natural history writing, Fallon examines all aspects of the bird’s natural history: breeding, incubating eggs, raising chicks, migrating, and roosting. The result is an intimate portrait of an underappreciated bird—one you’ll never look at in the same way again.Trade Review"[A]n excellent quick read, suitable not only for bird lovers and naturalists but for anyone with a bit of natural curiosity and an inclination to root for the common, the misunderstood, and the underdog.” * Birding Magazine *“Fallon’s personal accounts of her field experiences are engrossing and entertaining. . . . Recommended.” * Choice *"Through thorough research, interviews, and firsthand experience, Fallon establishes unquestionable credibility; however, it is her own narrative writing and descriptive skills that make Vulture a book that is not only educational and inspiring, but readable and entertaining." * The Los Angeles Review *"Fallon truly loves these skillful gliders, and she hopes that readers will see the light. Every time I've seen a vulture this year, this book has come to mind, so I guess I'm hooked." * The Exponent Telegram *“Who would have suspected the astonishments of vultures? Katie Fallon has given us an ingenious, funny, delightful book.” -- Janisse Ray, author of Ecology of a Cracker Childhood“Katie Fallon, who writes with elegance, humor, and restraint, tells the lost stories of the vulture tribe. This book will fill you with wonder.” -- David Gessner, author of All The Wild That Remains: Edward Abbey, Wallace Stegner, and the American West“Fallon shines a bright light on this clan of sadly unloved birds, which are not only vitally important ecologically, but are also among the most imperiled avian groups on the planet. Vulture is an overdue love letter to a bird that deserves far better than we’ve given it.” -- Scott Weidensaul, author of Living on the Wind“This is a book that begged to be written. . . . Fallon allows that the study of flying turkey vultures is akin to meditation. Rarely hurried, coursing the heavens like a setter seeks quail, this most widespread of North American vultures invites both contemplation and envy. . . . A book as inspired as the bird that is its focus.” -- Pete Dunne, New Jersey Audubon’s ambassador for birding and author of The Wind Masters: The Lives of North American Birds of Prey“A heartfelt and authoritative account of the world’s most numerous and misunderstood avian scavenger. Writing in a style reminiscent of Edward Abbey and John McPhee, Fallon successfully captures the natural history of the species and its ability to succeed in both natural and man-made landscapes. Destined to change the mind of anyone who reads it.” -- Keith L. Bildstein, Sarkis Acopian Director of Conservation Science at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary“Entertaining, well-researched. . . . [Fallon] displays great passion and enthusiasm yet writes knowingly and dispassionately on the science of her subject in an engaging, literary style.” * Library Journal *Table of ContentsIntroduction: The Spokesbird1. Vulture Culture2. The Private Lives of Public Birds3. Rockshelter4. Wings and Prayers5. Rebirth6. Hill of the Sacred Eagles7. On the Move8. Virginia Is for Vultures9. Battlefield Ghosts10. Welcome Back11. BuzzardsEpilogue: Spokesbirds for the SpokesbirdsAfterword: What You Can DoAcknowledgmentsBibliographyIndex

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