Wildlife: general interest Books

Book SynopsisThe art of needle felting can produce endless possibilities of hyper-realistic, almost taxidermic results. With a little know-how, some needles, wool and a few inexpensive accessories, you can learn to needle felt like a professional. Take your needle felting to a whole new level to create a range of lifelike British wildlife. World class felting master Cindy-Lou Thompson of Chicktin Creations will take you through the steps. Covering four different British wild animals, with illustrated step-by-step instructions, Cindy guides you through the process of creating different body shapes, proportions, armatures, coats, and blending, as well as realistic finishing touches such as eyes, nails, ears and detailing. Learn how to achieve a professional finish you will be proud of with different textured coats, blending, clipping, and adding shape and giving a realistic finishing touch with a variety of mediums and methods, some of which Cindy has designed and developed herself. From the author of the best-selling book A Masterclass in Needle Felting Dogs, this follow-up book will teach you new techniques, and inspire you to try new and exciting creations of your own!Table of ContentsChapter 1. Basic information, items used etc. Chapter 2. The Fox, highlighting armature, initial covering, long fur attachment and coat pattern, Fox eyes and texturing wool. Chapter 3. The Hare, highlighting proportions, blended coat, large ears, eyes and finishing off details Chapter 4. The Badger, highlighting an unusal body shape and armature, claws Chapter 4. The Deer, highlighting long thin legs, large ears and a shorter coat.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA field guide to the wildlife of southern Africa, describing over 2,000 plants and animals, with accurate illustrations in full colour. This book has been a trusted field companion for many years. Comprehensively updated, it now features range maps for most groups. The chapters are colour-coded for easy reference, and diagnostic features appear in bold type within the descriptions. Each chapter is written by a leading expert in the field. All the main plant and animal groups are covered:Lower invertebrates; Spiders and other arachnids; Insects;Freshwater fishes; Frogs;Reptiles; Birds;Mammals; Grasses, sedges, ferns and fungi; Wild flowers; Trees.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE ORION BOOK AWARD Part travelogue, part manifesto for wildness as an essential character of life, Wild is a one-of-a-kind book from a one-of-a-kind author''Undefinable, untameable, profound and extraordinary'' Observer _________________________''I took seven years over this work, spent all I had, my time, money and energy. Part of the journey was a green riot and part a deathly bleakness. I got ill, I got well. I went to the freedom fighters of West Papua and sang my head off in their highlands. I met cannibals infinitely kinder and more trustworthy than the murderous missionaries who evangelize them. I found a paradox of wildness in the glinting softness of its charisma, for what is savage is in the deepest sense gentle and what is wild is kind. In the end - a strangely sweet result - I came back to a wild home.'' Wild describes an extraordinary odyssey, courageous and sometimes danTrade ReviewWild is like nothing else I've ever read: thrilling, troubling, frightening, exhilarating. Jay Griffiths' courage and energy are formidable, but so is her sheer intelligence and literary flair * Philip Pullman *Reality is such that both language and imagination have to exaggerate in order to confront it truly. Living with such exaggeration you need a very good head for heights and a lot of bravery. In this book Jay Griffiths has both. If bravery itself could write (by definition it can't), it would write, I believe, like she does * John Berger *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe best field guide to observing and understanding the behavior of African mammals and an indispensable tool for naturalists traveling to Africa! The Second Edition has been fully revised and includes a new preface. The Safari Companion enables readers to recognize and interpret visible behavioral activities, such as courtship rituals, territorial marking, aggression, and care of young. Each account of over 80 species includes a behavioral table in which the unique actions of the hoofed mammals, carnivores, and primates are described for easy reference. Other features include: Expert Illustrations Useful maps showing major national boundaries, vegetation zones, and game parks An extensive glossary Tips on wildlife photography A list of organizations working to protect African wildlife "The best behavioral field guide ever."—Sy Montgomery, author of Tamed and Untamed "The book is more than a field guide; it is a valuable tool for conservation."—Kathryn S. Fuller, President, World Wildlife Fund (U.S.A.)Trade ReviewLibrary Journal- Anyone who goes on safari will want to make room in his or her suitcase for this treasure. Estes, who is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institute as a research associate, spent over eight years doing fieldwork in Africa and over 17 years leading safaris. His admirable qualifications as an expert on the social ecology of African mammals are reflected in the text, which describes approximately 86 species of African mammals. Introductory chapters give practical advice on how to observe animals, including tips on using binoculars and photographic equipment. Other chapters are arranged by standard taxonomic classification. Estes first covers the characteristics of families and subfamilies and then goes into even more detail on the individual species, charting behaviors one can expect to see and the usual context or meaning. Icons illustrating the behaviors effectively take the reader to a description of the behavior being observed. Appended to the text are a brief suggested reading list, addresses of major wildlife organizations, a glossary of terms, and a thorough index. The only "fault" with this exceptionally well-written and researched book is its size. With a 6 9 trim and some 470 pages of text, this is a fairly large, hefty volume to pack on safari--but it is worth the extra effort, as nothing compares with it. Essential for any traveler to Africa, any student of animals or behavior, any zoo visitor, and any size public library.Table of Contents1. Social and Mating Systems 2. Observing African Mammals 3. Understanding Animal Behavior Part I: Antelopes and Other Ruminants 4. Introducing Antelopes and Other African Ruminants 5. Duikers 6. Dwarf Antelopes 7. Gazelle Tribe 8. Reedbuck/Kob Tribe 9. Vaal or Gray Rhebok, Pelea capreolus 10. Horse Antelopes 11. Hartebeest Tribe 12. Impala, Aepyceros melampus 13. Bushbuck Tribe 14. African or Cape Buffalo, Syncerus caffer 15. Giraffe, Giraffa camelopardalis Part II: Other Hoofed Mammals 16. Swine 17. Hippopotamus, Hippopotamus amphibius 18. Rhinoceroses 19. Zebras and Asses 20. Hyraxes or Dassies 21. Elephant, Loxodonta africana[superscript en] Part III: Carnivores. 22. Introducing Carnivores

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"Wildlife of Australia is a decent introduction to the most popular and easily seen mammals, birds, reptiles and frogs of the continent, and its casually written style makes it both informative and enjoyable. Whether on a first visit to Australia, returning on a casual vacation or simply enjoying armchair birding from around the world, this guide can be a useful addition to a birder's library or field bag."--Melissa Mayntz, About.com Birding/Wild Birds "We loved this pocket guide to the Wildlife of Australia and the authors and publishers are to be congratulated on producing such a high quality, genuine pocket book that is jam-packed with information. If you are heading down under, make sure you take this book with you."--Alan Davies and Ruth Miller, Biggest Twitch "[T]he emphasis is on the creatures a visitor is most likely to see in or near the major tourist regions. The text is concise but detailed and the images are uniformly excellent. I was able to use them without difficulty to identify the animals, and particularly the many birds I had photographed on my various trips to Australia. This book will certainly accompany me on my next visit."--AnthonyToole, Shvoong.com "If space or weight are an issue on your travels, then this would be the one guide to take with you."--Jim Morgan, Birding Frontiers "Anyone who likes wildlife and is planning a visit to Australia should have this book."--FHB, Wildlife Activist "The text is well written and informative giving salient points of identification and range. The photos are good quality portraits taken by 16 photographers."--Roy John, Canadian Field Naturalist "While the book is obviously designed for tourists ... it may well also appeal and be useful to local beginner naturalists or children with an interest in fauna."--Judy Smith, CorellaTable of ContentsPreface and Acknowledgments 3 Vegetation Associations of Australia 4 Habitats 6 Mammals 26 Birds 54 Amphibians 258 Reptiles 262 Abbreviations 276 Glossary 277 Further Reading 279 Photo Credits 280 Index 281

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe essential mammal guide to take on safari, covering every African land mammal.Originally published in 2004, the Kingdon Pocket Guide to African Mammals quickly became the field guide of choice to take on African safaris. Its compact format makes it ideal for use in the field, while its coverage is the most comprehensive currently possible in this format.Adapted from the Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals, the greatly condensed text focuses on essential information such as identification and distribution, while the author''s superb illustrations have been rearranged into an easy-to-use plate format and placed opposite the text. Complex and more obscure groups like the bats and certain rodent families are summarised by genera. Over 500 maps plot the distribution of all larger species, and for smaller mammals the maps show distribution by genus.This is a completely revised second edition of this popular guide. The information and taxonomy have been updated to fTrade ReviewExcellent, comprehensive field guide so you can tell your puku from your lechwe. * BBC Wildlife *Table of ContentsPreface Introduction How to Use this Guide The African Environment Evolution in Africa Mammals Afrotheria Primates Rodents Hares, Rock-Hares and Rabbits Hedgehogs Shrews Bats Carnivores Pangolins Odd-toed Ungulates Even-toed Ungulates Further Reading Glossary Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisA stunning new edition of the best-selling photographic guide to the moths of the British Isles--now covering all species on the British list.British Moths is the most comprehensive collection of photographs of British moths ever published. It covers both macro and micro species, and the images are all of living insects, taken in natural conditions. Concise text descriptions cover wingspan, status and distribution, flight period, habitat and larval foodplants, while thumbnail maps provide a quick overview of geographical distributions.This third edition has been significantly expanded so that it includes all species on the British list, approximately 2,500 in total, representing a magnificent achievement by the author, Chris Manley. It also includes updates to the text, improvements to the photographic selection, and extra identification hints. For the leaf-mining micros, photographs are included to demonstrate the all-important feeding signs that can oTable of ContentsIllustrated Index to Moth Families Preface to the Third Edition Acknowledgements Introduction How to See Moths Photography and Recording Anatomy Life Cycle of a Typical Moth Species Descriptions Appendix: Adventives Bibliography and Further Reading English Index Scientific Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisA portable, photo-packed guide for all visitors to the country.New Zealand''s dramatic scenery is home to some equally dramatic wildlife, featuring a host of endemics found nowhere else in the world. From giant wetas and the ancient Tuatara to a suite of beautiful birds, including flightless wonders such as the Kiwi and Kakapo, these animals help make New Zealand one of the world''s greatest wildlife-tourism destinations. Although there have been severe losses due to introduced predators, the country has a fiercely determined conservation sector, and the future looks bright.This fully revised and updated second edition of Julian Fitter''s classic photographic field guide illustrates most of the vertebrate species to be found on the islands, there, as well as a large number of typical invertebrates and flora, with the photography accompanied by concise species texts. Reader-friendly and portable yet covering everything the visitor is likely to see, this book Trade ReviewFor the inquisitive visitor, this photographic field guide is the perfect companion - small and compact. * Birding World *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Author's Introduction Map of New Zealand Map of New Zealand and its Offshore Islands Introduction Geology and Geography Habitats Birds Mammals Amphibians and Reptiles Invertebrates Freshwater and Estuarine Fish The Seashore Native Trees and Shrubs Native Vines, Epiphytes and Parasites Native Herbs Native Grasses, Sedges and Rushes Ferns and their Allies Fungi Bryophytes - Mosses, Liverworts and Hornworts Lichens Places to Visit Glossary Index Photo Credits

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe perfect hilarious and heartwarming gift for the festive season!When the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards announced a contest for the funniest animal photo, they received entries from all over the world. Now authors and the original Award founders Paul Joynson-Hicks and Tom Sullam showcase the best of the best - as well as some never before seen - to present the most joyful photographs of wildlife ever printed. A pelican losing its lunch; a three-headed giraffe; a meerkat having a rough day... this is the must-have book that is perfect for animal lovers of all stripes!

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis"Tom’s committed career has captured images that will serve as pieces of history for generations to come." — Steve McCurry "... The fascinating images are not only beautiful, they are also a reminder about how important it is to protect our planet's natural diversity." — Hoom Magazine Tom D. Jones is a wildlife photographer: he makes a point of never photographing animals in captivity and portrays them very closely. The results are almost human portraits of impressive animals such as elephants, rhinos, lions, etc. They also carry a clear message: let's take care of these often endangered species and the world they inhabit before it's too late. This is precisely what his friend and colleague Steve McCurry emphasises in the foreword to this great book.Trade Review"In his new book, the Belgian master photographer Tom D. Jones presents a captivating series of black and white images, which depict the unique wildlife of the East African savannah. The fascinating images are not only beautiful, they are also a reminder about how important it is to protect our planet's natural diversity." - Hoom Magazine

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis photographic guide to the wildlife of East Africa is an accessible introduction to the region's more conspicuous and interesting mammals, birds, reptiles, frogs, insects, flowers and trees. A colour photograph accompanies each account, which describes the species' appearance, size, and habits, and gives information on their conservation status, habitat and the best viewing localities. This book is an invaluable guide for visitors to national parks and other wildlife-rich places in East Africa and is a handy size for travel.

Read more less

Book SynopsisOffers a startling new vision of motherhood: wild, intimate, diverse; as contested and extraordinary as the world in which we live and the animals with which we share it.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWe're not just losing the wild world. We're forgetting it. We're no longer noticing it. We've lost the habit of looking and seeing and listening and hearing. But we can make hidden things visible, and this book features 23 spellbinding ways to bring the magic of nature much closer to home.Mammals you never knew existed will enter your world. Birds hidden in treetops will shed their cloak of anonymity. With a single movement of your hand you can make reptiles appear before you. Butterflies you never saw before will bring joy to every sunny day. Creatures of the darkness will enter your consciousness. And as you take on new techniques and a little new equipment, you will discover new creatures and, with them, new areas of yourself that had gone dormant. Once put to use, they wake up and start working again. You become wilder in your mind and in your heart. Once you know the tricks, the wild world beginTrade Review'Rewild Yourself turns the [nature writing] genre upside down. Barnes tackles the issue of our disconnection with the wild from a much more pragmatic angle. It is not the land that should be rewilded, but us. This book has a spiritual, crusading quality. He writes as an uncle would to his nieces or nephews, encouraging them to enjoy his love of the outdoors... There is something here for anyone who is captivated by nature and wants to get closer... Essentially Rewild Yourself is about learning to be part of nature. This is such a simple, clever book.' -- Rosemary Goring * Herald *'Barnes urges us to pay closer attention to the natural world, sharing 23 tips and techniques to help us all, wherever we live, to broaden our horizons and enjoy the wonders of nature.' * Daily Express *'The perfect gift for both confirmed nature lovers, and those who want to discover the wild side…' * Lancashire Post *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA remarkable variety of animals and plants can be found in the wilderness region surrounding the Okavango Delta. This photographic guide covers more than 470 of the area's most conspicuous and interesting mammals, birds, reptiles, frogs, fishes, invertebrates, trees and aquatic plants. An informative introduction describes the area's geology, climate, habitats and the key roles played by some animals, such as termites and elephants. The species accounts feature concise text describing the species' appearance, size, habits, habitat and status, with full-colour photographs to facilitate identification.

Read more less

Book SynopsisJoel Sartore's quest to photograph all the animal species under human care celebrates its 15th year in this glorious and heartwrenching collection of photographs. The animals featured in these pages are either destined for extinction or already extinct in the wild but still alive today, thanks to dedication of a heroic group committed to their continued survival. From the majestic Sumatran rhinoceros to the tiny Salt Creek tiger beetle, Sartore's photographs bring us eye to eye with the kaleidoscopic diversity of shapes, colors, personalities, and attitudes of the animal world. In these vivid pages, Sartore singles out the species most likely to disappear in the next decades, as well as some that have already been lost. Alongside these indelible images are the words of scientists and conservationists who are working to protect and restore populations of endangered species. With Sartore's distinctive portrait photography, he invites us to look Trade Review“I can never unsee these faces, and I believe I am a better person because of it. Thank you, Joel Sartore, for using your passion and talent to give these animals a voice.” –Amy’s Booket List “There are nearly 300 portraits in this book. They are gorgeous. They will break your heart. But this book is SO IMPORTANT.” –Bookapotamus “Any lover of nature or ardent conservationist would adore this book, its photos, and its message.” –JulzReads “This book is both beautiful and heart rending. All of the animals in it are either already extinct in the wild or heading towards extinction. Just think about that. The man taking all of these magnificent pictures wants to at least make a record of each one’s existence before it falls from the earth.” –Broken Teepee “It’s a very sad thing, to read through this book, and see all the critters on the Endangered list, and on the Extinction lists.” –The Pages In-Between “I'm going to tell you that the photos in this book are absolutely stunning and you will find yourself compulsively turning the pages.” –Stranded in Chaos “Joel Sartore has captured the soul of each animal on a simple black or white background, forcing the reader to look into the eyes of many of the animals that our actions are helping to decimate.” –Stephanie’s Book Reviews

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe first guidebook of its kind for the Caucasus, not only giving information on where to go birding, but also covering mammals, dragonflies, flora and much more.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIt's time to dust off your camera, pick up your binoculars and head back to the great outdoors as the much-loved Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards return once again with the best, as well as never-before-seen, photographs of wildlife; a waving polar bear; a squirrel photographer and even a pair of gracefully ice-skating penguins. This is a must-have book that is perfect for animal lovers and a wonderful celebration of natural habitats all over the world!The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards is one of the most popular celebrations of animal welfare and receives thousands of entries every year. It celebrates animals in their natural habitats being themselves. Backed by the global conservation charity Born Free Foundation, the awards applaud the tireless efforts made by some of the most talented wildlife photographers on the planet.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisWinner of the Prix Renaudot 2019 A New York Times Best Book of 2021 ‘Extraordinarily beautiful… a long last loving glance at the planet.’ Carl Safina, author of Becoming Wild The Art of Patience sees the renowned French adventurer and writer set off for the high plateaux of remotest Tibet in search of the elusive snow leopard. There, in the company of leading wildlife photographer Vincent Munier and two companions, at 5,000 metres and in temperatures of -25ºC, the team set up their hides on exposed mountainsides, and occasionally in the luxury of an icy cave, to await a visitation from the almost mythical beast. This tightly focused and tautly written narrative is simultaneously a dazzling account of an exacting journey, an apprenticeship in the art of patience, an acceptance of the ruthlessness of the natural world and, finally, a plea for ecological sanity. A small masterpiece, it is one of those books that demands to be read again and again.Trade Review‘In The Art of Patience: Seeking the Snow Leopard in Tibet, the French writer Sylvain Tesson chronicles his rapturous journey through Tibet’s Chantang plateau with the wildlife photographer Vincent Munier. Tesson’s words, in a ravishing translation by Frank Wynne, paint pictures as vivid as any photograph.’ -- Liesl Schillinger, New York Times, 'Best Books of 2021', Travel‘Tesson is a transcendent travel writer… [The Art of Patience] inspires action, thought, silence – and perhaps also prayer.’ -- BBC Countryfile Magazine, Best Books of 2021‘A wonderful evocation of waiting and watching for nature.’ -- Tim Birkhead, author of Bird Sense‘Beautifully written, beautifully translated, intensely moving and totally absorbing.’ -- Stanley Johnson, author of Where the Wild Things Were‘The Art of Patience is extraordinarily beautiful, a narrative of prose that flows with poetry, a long last loving glance at the planet, a visit to the vital bedside of a living world determined to stay alive.’ -- Carl Safina, author of Becoming Wild: How Animals Learn to be Animals‘I found it hard to resist… there is so much more to this elegantly written book than the story of a search. It is also a philosophical consideration of the benefits of silence, waiting and personal reflection; an ode to the psychological effect of natural beauty; and a poetic eulogy to the planet.’ -- Big Issue‘[One of] the best books of the year.’ * Financial Times on Consolations of the Forest *‘I thought I’d rip through this book. But it’s not something you want to read fast. Tesson, who I came to like more and more, is trying to rearrange his relationship with time. Being alone, miles from anywhere, encourages him to sit still and watch things.’ * Spectator on Consolations of the Forest *‘He comes across as the brainiest, daftest, sternest, funniest, most companionable hermit you'll ever meet.’ * Guardian on Consolations of the Forest *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA beautiful companion set to the award-winning and internationally beloved phenomena, The Lost Words and The Lost Spells, adults and children alike will love receiving, sending and displaying The Wild Cards''Breathtaking and magical. Jackie Morris has created something that you could spend all day looking at'' New Statesman''Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris have made a thing of astonishing beauty'' ObserverDiscover and share the wonders of the wild world as seen in The Lost Words and The Lost Spells...This collection of 100 postcards features artwork and words from two beloved modern classics, in which Jackie Morris and Robert Macfarlane celebrate the creatures, trees and plants of nearby nature, from Acorn to Wren, by way of Curlew and Kingfisher, Silver Birch and Snow Hare, Goldfinch and Gorse.The front of each card bears one of Morris''s Greenaway Medal-winning paintings; on the reverse, y

Read more less

Book SynopsisRSPB Spotlight: Hedgehogs is packed with eye-catching, informative colour photos, and features succinct and detailed text written by a knowledgeable naturalist.Much loved - but about to be lost? The Hedgehog regularly tops polls of the UK's favourite animal, yet numbers in our countryside have halved this century. Generations of children have been captivated by Beatrix Potter's The Tale of Mrs Tiggy-Winkle, though our complex and contradictory relationship with the Hedgehog is also characterised by persecution and death. This unmistakable, spiny mammal is a gardener's best friend', but one that we rarely see alive and in our midst.In Spotlight: Hedgehogs, James Lowen reveals what a Hedgehog is and how it lives, unveiling the secrets of its lifestyle, such as foraging and hibernating, rolling into a ball and building a nest. He also investigates the relationship between Hedgehogs and people from film and fun to conservation and crisps and offers practical aTrade ReviewProfusely illustrated, and written in an informal, engaging style ... it manages to tell you just about everything you could possibly want to know about hedgehogs, including in many cases how surprisingly little we know -- Ken Thompson * British Ecological Society's 'The Niche' magazine *Table of ContentsMeet the Hedgehogs Bodywork Breeding and Growth Home, Habits and Food (Anti)social Life Threats and Conservation Hedgehogs and People Hedgehogs in Culture How to See Hedgehogs Glossary Acknowledgements Further Reading Resources Image Credits Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisContaining 146 color photos, this book looks at the mammals and reptiles most likely to be encountered in the world-famous Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. It includes 89 species of mammal and reptile.Trade Review"The book is uniquely peppered with anecdotes and tips from six local safari guides working in the region. This human touch is a nice feature, and it's likely you'll come across one of the 'Big 6' on safari in the region... Animals of the Serengeti is an accessible and attractive photographic field guide, appropriate for the wildlife enthusiast who is looking for more than simply not going on safari empty handed."--Derek Kverno, Birding in Tanzania "Essential book if you are heading for the Serengeti... Excellent."--Derek Moore, Derek Bird Brain "Animals of the Serengeti: And Ngorongoro Conservation Area by Adam Scott Kennedy and Vicki Kennedy is an easy-to-use guidebook that is also very readable... The book is lightweight with each page filled with pictures and brief scientific explanations for each animal. Still, what I find most intriguing about the book, which I also think you will also enjoy, is the incorporation of short first-hand stories told by local guides... A great read."--Gabriel Thoumi, MongaBay.com "It's an indispensible companion for anyone thinking of making a visit to the region, to enhance your overall experience of the wildlife to be found there and inform you about the characteristics and behaviors that you will observe."--Wild Travel Magazine "A colorful, easy-to-read overview of the fascinating animals to be found on safari in Tanzania."--Library Journal "Filled with vivid anecdotes, Animals of the Serengeti will enable any safari traveler to identify the area's wildlife with ease."--BASE "Animals of the Serengeti is an accessible and attractive photographic field guide, appropriate for the wildlife enthusiast who is looking for more than simply not going on safari empty handed."--Birding Tanzania Blog "Animals of the Serengeti is an accessible and attractive photographic field guide, appropriate for the wildlife enthusiast who is looking for more than simply not going on safari empty handed."--Birding Tanzania Blog "These two guides are keys to prepare you for your journey, whether it is an actual safari or an imaginary one from the comfort of your home."--Dan R. Kunkle, Wildlife ActivistTable of ContentsAbout this book 7 About the guides 10 Geography of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) 12 The great migrations 14 Map of the 'Greater Serengeti area' 16 Where to watch wildlife in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) 20 MAMMALS Lion Panthera leo 24 Leopard Panthera pardus 28 Cheetah Acinonyx jubatus 32 Serval Leptailurus serval 36 Caracal Caracal caracal 37 Wild Cat Felis sylvestris 38 African Civet Civettictis civetta 39 Small-spotted Genet Genetta genetta 40 Large-spotted Genet Genetta tigrina 40 Spotted Hyena Crocuta crocuta 42 Aardwolf Proteles cristata 44 Striped Hyena Hyena hyaena 45 Dwarf Mongoose Helogale parvula 46 Banded Mongoose Mungos mungo 47 Slender Mongoose Herpestes sanguineus 48 Ichneumon Mongoose Herpestes ichneumon 49 Marsh Mongoose Atilax paludinosus 50 White-tailed Mongoose Ichneumia albicauda 51 Zorilla Ictonyx striatus 52 Honey Badger Mellivora capensis 53 Black-backed Jackal Canis mesomelas 54 Side-striped Jackal Canis adustus 55 Golden Jackal Canis aureus 56 Bat-eared Fox Otocyon megalotis 58 Wild Dog Lycaon pictus 59 Pangolin Smutsia temminckii 60 Aardvark Orycteropus afer 61 African Elephant Loxodonta africana 62 Black Rhinoceros Diceros bicornis 67 Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibius 68 Cape Buffalo Syncerus caffer 70 Bushpig Potamochoerus larvatus 73 Warthog Phacochoerus africanus 74 Plains Zebra Equus quagga 76 Maasai Giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis 80 Eland Tragelaphus oryx 84 Roan Hippotragus equinus 86 Bush Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia 87 Steinbuck Raphicerus campestris 88 Oribi Ourebia ourebi 89 Kirk's Dik-dik Madoqua kirkii 90 Klipspringer Oreotragus oreotragus 91 Mountain Reedbuck Redunca fulvorufula 92 Bohor Reedbuck Redunca redunca 93 Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus 94 Defassa Waterbuck Kobus ellipsiprymnus 95 Impala Aepyceros melampus 96 Grant's Gazelle Nanger granti 98 Thomson's Gazelle Eudorcas thomsonii 100 Coke's Hartebeest Alcelaphus buselaphus 102 Topi Damaliscus lunatus 103 White-bearded Wildebeest Connochaetes taurinus 104 Cape Hare Lepus capensis 108 Scrub Hare Lepus saxatilis 108 Springhare Pedetes capensis 109 Unstriped Ground Squirrel Xerus rutilus 110 Grass Rat Arvicanthis niloticus 111 White-bellied Hedgehog Atelerix albiventris 112 Crested Porcupine Hystrix cristata 113 Rock Hyrax Procavia capensis 114 Southern Tree Hyrax Dendrohyrax arboreus 115 Bush Hyrax Heterohyrax brucei 115 Greater Galago Otolemur crassicaudatus 116 Lesser Galago Galago senegalensis 117 Guereza Colobus Colobus guereza 118 Patas Monkey Erythrocebus patas 120 Blue Monkey Cercopithecus mitis 122 Vervet Monkey Chlorocebus pygerythrus 124 Olive Baboon Papio anubis 126 Rufous Sengi Elephantulus rufescens 128 REPTILES Nile Crocodile Crocodylus niloticus 130 Savanna Monitor Varanus albigularis 132 Nile Monitor Varanus niloticus 132 Leopard Tortoise Geochelone pardalis 134 Helmeted Terrapin Pelomedusa subrufa 135 Flap-necked Chameleon Chamaeleo dilepis 136 Striped Skink Mabuya striata 136 Tropical House Gecko Hemidactylus mabouia 138 Cape Dwarf Gecko Lygodactylus capensis 139 Mwanza Flat-headed Agama Agama mwanzae 140 Red-headed Rock Agama Agama agama 140 Blue-headed Tree Agama Acanthocercus atricollis 141 Black-necked Spitting Cobra Naja nigricollis 142 Black Mamba Dendroaspis polylepis 143 Spotted Bush Snake Philothamnus semivariegatus 144 Velvety-green Night Adder Causus resimus 144 Puff Adder Bitis arietans 145 African Rock Python Python natalensis 146 Further reading and useful resources 148 Acknowledgements 149 Photographic credits 149 Index 150

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis handy guide provides simple tools to help interpret the tracks and signs of some 105 southern African mammals, reptiles, frogs and birds. Photographs and diagnostic spoor illustrations are given for each animal, along with information on behaviour, habits and habitat, and up-to-date distribution maps show where the animals occur. Special features on insects and scat supplement the text and a detailed introduction offers basic guidelines for learning how to become a tracker. Sales points: Clear illustrations of more than 125 animal tracks. 175 full-colour photographs. Special features on insects and scat. Author expertise well recognised in this field.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA guide that explores the wildlife most likely to be encountered by a safari visitor to the Masai Mara National Reserve in southwest Kenya. It covers 140 photographs that showcase 65 mammals and 17 reptile species, including 6 snakes. It also provides a brief and informative introduction to the habitats of the Masai Mara.Trade Review"This is the guidebook for every child, and child inside of us, between the ages of 5 and 105 that has ever dreamt of learning about the fascinating animals seen on a safari in Africa."--Gabriel Thoumi, MongaBay.com "Like its avian companion volume, you will love this book--even if you never visit the Masai Mara!"--Devorah Bennu, GrrlScentist "If you are going to visit the Masai Mara, this is a must have book. But I recommend this book equally to anyone who wants to take an imaginary journey to this part of the Serengeti. It is a fascinating book about the world's most charismatic community of animals."--DRK, Wildlife ActivistTable of ContentsAbout this book 7 Geography of the Masai Mara 10 Map of the Masai Mara 12 Where to watch wildlife in the Masai Mara 14 The great migrations 18 About the guides 22 Mammals * Lion Panthera leo 26 Leopard Panthera pardus 30 Cheetah Acinonyx jubatus 34 Serval Leptailurus serval 38 Caracal Caracal caracal 39 Wild Cat Felis sylvestris 40 African Civet Civettictis civetta 41 Small-spotted Genet Genetta genetta 42 Large-spotted Genet Genetta tigrina 42 Spotted Hyena Crocuta crocuta 44 Aardwolf Proteles cristata 46 Striped Hyena Hyena hyaena 47 Dwarf Mongoose Helogale parvula 48 Banded Mongoose Mungos mungo 49 Slender Mongoose Herpestes sanguineus 50 Ichneumon Mongoose Herpestes ichneumon 51 Marsh Mongoose Atilax paludinosus 52 White-tailed Mongoose Ichneumia albicauda 53 Zorilla Ictonyx striatus 54 Honey Badger Mellivora capensis 55 Black-backed Jackal Canis mesomelas 56 Side-striped Jackal Canis adustus 57 Bat-eared Fox Otocyon megalotis 58 Wild Dog Lycaon pictus 59 Pangolin Smutsia temminckii 60 Aardvark Orycteropus afer 61 African Elephant Loxodonta africana 62 Black Rhinoceros Diceros bicornis 67 Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibius 68 Warthog Phacochoerus africanus 70 Plains Zebra Equus quagga 72 Maasai Giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis 76 Cape Buffalo Syncerus caffer 80 Eland Tragelaphus oryx 84 Greater Kudu Tragelaphus strepsiceros 86 Bush Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia 88 Oribi Ourebia ourebi 89 Kirk's Dik-dik Madoqua kirkii 90 Klipspringer Oreotragus oreotragus 91 Mountain Reedbuck Redunca fulvorufula 92 Bohor Reedbuck Redunca redunca 93 Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus 94 Defassa Waterbuck Kobus ellipsiprymnus 95 Impala Aepyceros melampus 96 Grant's Gazelle Nanger granti 98 Thomson's Gazelle Eudorcas thomsonii 100 Coke's Hartebeest Alcelaphus buselaphus 102 Topi Damaliscus lunatus 103 White-bearded Wildebeest Connochaetes taurinus 104 Cape Hare Lepus capensis 108 Scrub Hare Lepus saxatilis 108 Springhare Pedetes capensis 109 Unstriped Ground Squirrel Xerus rutilus 110 Striped Ground Squirrel Xerus erythropus 110 Grass Rat Arvicanthis niloticus 111 White-bellied Hedgehog Atelerix albiventris 112 Crested Porcupine Hystrix cristata 113 Bush Hyrax Heterohyrax brucei 114 Greater Galago Otolemur crassicaudatus 116 Lesser Galago Galago senegalensis 117 Guereza Colobus Colobus guereza 118 Red-tailed Monkey Cercopithecus ascanius 120 Blue Monkey Cercopithecus mitis 122 Vervet Monkey Chlorocebus pygerythrus 124 Olive Baboon Papio anubis 126 Reptiles * Nile Crocodile Crocodylus niloticus 130 Savanna Monitor Varanus albigularis 132 Nile Monitor Varanus niloticus 132 Leopard Tortoise Geochelone pardalis 134 Helmeted Terrapin Pelomedusa subrufa 135 Flap-necked Chameleon Chamaeleo dilepis 136 Striped Skink Mabuya striata 136 Tropical House Gecko Hemidactylus mabouia . 138 Cape Dwarf Gecko Lygodactylus capensis 139 Mwanza Flat-headed Agama Agama mwanzae 140 Blue-headed Tree Agama Acanthocercus atricollis 141 Black-necked Spitting Cobra Naja nigricollis 142 Black Mamba Dendroaspis polylepis 143 Spotted Bush Snake Philothamnus semivariegatus 144 Velvety-green Night Adder Causus resimus 144 Puff Adder Bitis arietans 145 African Rock Python Python natalensis 146 References and useful resources 148 Acknowledgements and photographic credits 149 Index 150

Read more less

Book SynopsisA spectacular compilation of animal illustrations from the awe-inspiring works of Kerby Rosanes, as part of an exciting new series called Kerby’s Selection.This beautiful colouring book brings together the most astonishing animal images from Kerby’s World and Morphia series, featuring fantasy scenes of strange, shape-shifting animals as well as real-life depictions of our fragile world and its natural beauty.Fifty-eight detailed drawings of wondrous animals and their environments are just waiting to be brought to life with colour – from an enchanting eagle leaving a trail of doodles in its wake and an intricate beetle made from cogs to a cute otter floating along a river and giant pandas surrounded by bamboo.Please note: This book contains material previously published in Fragile World, Worlds Within Worlds, Animorphia, Mythomorphia, Geomorphia and Imagimorphia.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe perfect guide for nature-loving tourists and travelers to Greece.From the Hoopoe to the Black-Headed Bunting, Greece is home to a wide range of avifauna, thanks to the richly varied habitats it has to offer. Pocket-sized and portable, this compact guide provides superb full color photographs and detailed descriptions of each bird likely to be seen on a visit to the country. Whether you''re a seasoned birdwatcher or a tourist keen to identify the birds you spot on your holiday, Birds of Greece is sure to be helpful.Table of ContentsIntroduction Birdlife in Greece How to use this book Natural Greece – an overview Top birding sites in Greece Species descriptions Glossary Photo credits Resources Acknowledgements Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe must-have photography monograph of the year, this lavish oversized volume celebrates David Yarrow's unparalleled wildlife imagery.Trade Review“David Yarrow doesn’t take pictures; he makes them. Critical of typical, documentary-style wildlife photography, the British fine-art photographer is known for getting up close to his subjects—even when they’re apex predators. ‘The biggest difference between art and reportage is proximity and emotion,’ he says. To achieve that difference, Yarrow might face a charging elephant, wait for the perfect 10 minutes of light, or spend 99 hours tracking a tiger. His new eponymous book features 150 of his most compelling photographs.”—American Way Magazine

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom bestselling author Jane Davenport comes the ultimate inspiration for mixed-media artists! Make more time for creativity! In the follow-up to her popular 'Whimsical Girls', internationally known artist Jane Davenport once again offers her signature fanciful female figures, now accompanied by a menagerie of animal friends: cuddly koalas, noble lions, exotic birds and more. Inspirational prompts and Jane's stunning illustrations accompany the journal pages, which are printed on a variety of fine-art papers, including colouring paper, marker paper and watercolour paper, all perforated for easy display. Colourful collage papers and bonus stickers with even more original art and quotations round out this gorgeous package.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis is a concise and comprehensive guide to the popular subject of wildlife photography. It covers scouting locations, timing of trips relative to the seasons and assembling a kit of equipment. It contains an essential guide to lighting, composition and how best to photographs groups of animals. Wildlife is one of the most challenging and popular subjects for photographers. With strong emphasis on the ethics and legalities of animal welfare, the protection of the environment and the responsibilities of the photographer, Richard Garvey-Williams' concise, comprehensive yet accessible text covers the practical techniques of photography and how they relate to capturing stunning images of quarry that is invariably erratic, often endangered, and typically shy and elusive.

Read more less

Book SynopsisEducation is a critical part of safety - and not getting lost, or knowing how to get found if you do, is one of the most important lessons. Simple techniques to navigate out of dangerous situations are the focus of this handy waterproof reference guide, along with basic compass use and travelling by simple bearings. Contents also cover navigation skills around obstacles, pacing beads, aiming off, and dead reckoning. Developed by noted survival expert and woodsman Dave Canterbury, this is one of a 10-part series on survival skills. Made in the USA.

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Gavin Maxwell''s trilogy is essential reading'' Sunday HeraldFifty years ago Gavin Maxwell went to live in an abandoned house on a shingle beach on the west coast of Scotland. A haven for wildlife - he named his home Camusfearna and settled there with the otters Mij, Edal and Teko.Ring of Bright Water chronicles Gavin Maxwell''s first ten years with the otters and touched the hearts of readers the world over, brilliantly evoking life with these playful animals in this natural paradise. Two further volumes followed bringing the story full circle telling of the difficult last years and the final abandonment of the settlement.For the first time the entire trilogy is available in a single narrative in this beautifully presented collection.''If you like your wildlife, this is a must-read'' Reader Review''For lovers of otters this is an admirable compilation'' Reader Review''You will fall in love with Scotland'' Reader ReviewTrade Review"Gavin Maxwell's trilogy is essential reading" - Sunday Herald"

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhen man becomes prey . . . Whether you're in the ocean, up a mountain or in a forest, somewhere close by, unknown to you, a predator may be lurking, watching your every move. Tigers, grizzly bears, snakes, sharks, wolves, crocodiles and even cannibals have all have taken their toll on unwary travellers. Here you will encounter the most formidable predators in the natural world, sharing the final moments of those unlucky enough to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.In this gripping journey to the dark side of the animal kingdom, survivors recall terrifying ordeals first-hand, while hunters and other eyewitnesses describe the rapid sequence of events in a fatal attack. In more than 250 vivid accounts of encounters with man-eaters - both animal and human - Alex MacCormick explores man's vulnerability in the face of nature's savage power.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThere are five races of tiger on our planet and all but one live in tropical regions: the Siberian Tiger Panthera tigris altaica is the exception. Mysterious and elusive, and with only 350 remaining in the wild, the Siberian tiger remains a complete enigma. One man has set out to change this.Sooyong Park has spent twenty years tracking and observing these elusive tigers. Each year he spends six months braving sub-zero temperatures, buried in grave-like underground bunkers, fearlessly immersing himself in the lives of Siberian tigers. As he watches the brutal, day-to-day struggle to survive the harsh landscape, threatened by poachers and the disappearance of the pristine habitat, Park becomes emotionally and spiritually attached to these beautiful and deadly predators. No one has ever been this close: as he comes face-to-face with one tiger, Bloody Mary, her fierce determination to protect her cubs nearly results in his own bloody demise.Poignant, poetic and fiercely compassionate, The Trade ReviewPraise for The Great Soul of Siberia: ‘If you read one nature book this year, make it this one.’ Mark Cocker, Spectator ‘Wonderful … deserves to become a classic of wildlife literature.’ The Times ‘A wonderful evocation of the land and the habits of the desperately endangered Siberian tiger.’ Independent ‘The year's best wildlife book could already have arrived’ Wanderlust ‘Subtly intense … Park has a deep sense of oneness with the world around him. His close engagement with the forest ecology is the most extraordinary element of this remarkable book.’ New Statesman ‘It’s a masterpiece. One of the most moving outdoor texts I’ve read in years. This is a book about love – one exceptional human being’s love for the wild, beautiful and persecuted creatures to which his life is dedicated. It also comprehends a fortitude and hardihood so far beyond the everyday I was left shaking my head in astonished admiration.’ The Great Outdoors ‘Sooyong’s magical prose led me into little-known and breathtakingly beautiful forests, exposed me to the bitter cold of long winter months, and revealed the secret life of that most mysterious of cats, the Siberian tiger.’ Jane Goodall ‘A triumph of nature writing; an original and authentic voice from the wilderness.’ Jonathan and Angela Scott ‘The book is a love letter … To read it is to hear the voice of a remarkable man.’ Daily Telegraph ‘Spellbinding … Park’s book burns an indelible memory.’ Country Life

Read more less

Book Synopsis''In the gloom it came along the branches towards me, its round, hypnotic eyes blazing, its spoon-like ears turning to and fro independently like radar dishes . . . it was Lewis Carroll''s Jabberwocky come to life . . . one of the most incredible creatures I had ever been privileged to meet.''The fourth largest island in the world, Madagascar is home to woodlice the size of golf balls, moths the size of Regency fans and the Aye-Aye, a type of lemur held by local superstion to be an omen of death. But when Gerald Durrell visited the island, the destruction of the forests meant that the Aye-Aye and many other creatures were in danger of extinction.Told with his unique sense of humour and inimitable charm, Gerald Durrell''s The Aye Aye and I is the final adventure from one of Britain''s best loved conservationists.Trade ReviewA renegade who was right . . . He was truly a man before his time -- Sir David AttenboroughIf animals, birds and insects could speak, they would possibly award Mr Gerald Durrell one of their first Nobel prizes * Times Literary Supplement *Durrell has an uncanny knack of discovering human as well as animal eccentricities * Sunday Telegraph *

Read more less

Book SynopsisEach year the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition is seen by millions through a global tour and international media coverage. Portfolio 29 displays the full collection of 100 images awarded in the 2018 competition. Selected by an international jury for their artistic merit and originality from more than 40,000 entries, they represent the work of almost 100 nationalities. Displaying different styles, techniques, and ways of seeing, the collection is both a showcase for photographers who specialize in documenting the natural world and a celebration of nature.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisStuarts’ Field Guide to the Tracks & Signs of Southern, Central and East African Wildlife provides detailed coverage of tracks, droppings, bird pellets, nests and shelters, and feeding signs, not only for mammals, but also for birds, reptiles, insects and other invertebrates. First published in 1994, it has since been comprehensively revised and greatly expanded, making it the standard reference on the subject in the region. This new edition – featuring additional updates, a revised title and a new cover – retains the unique approach to identification that made the earlier editions so useful and popular: multiple full-colour photographs of all tracks and signs; detailed descriptions, track sketches and measurements; photographs of animal species to supplement the tracks and signs; advice on where to look for tracks and signs and how to interpret them. Navigation is by means of a set of keys showing the shape and size of the tracks and signs, allowing readers to navigate quickly to the animal or group of species responsible for the track in question. Keys on the inside covers help readers access information even faster. Sales points: Authoritative, highly detailed guide to a popular subject; new cover and title matches distinctive branding of authors’ other books; full-colour photographs throughout; expert authors with extensive field experience.

Read more less

Book Synopsis815 species of amphibian have been described on the African continent – 788 frogs, 23 caecilians and four salamanders. Field Guide to the Frogs & other Amphibians of Africa is the first guide ever to cover all these species. The book features a brief introduction with tips for handling and identifying amphibians. A useful illustrated guide to each family group serves as a first step towards species ID. Species accounts describe physical features, distribution, habitat, biology, advertisement calls and conservation status, and are supported by colour photographs and up-to-date distribution maps. Field Guide to the Frogs & Other Amphibians of Africa will prove invaluable to nature lovers, tour guides, students and scientists. Sales points: A first of its kind; facilitates identification of hundreds of species; photographic guide to amphibian groups; informative species accounts; glossary (partially illustrated) explaining all technical terms

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Wonderfully intense and honest - a poignant manual of how to grow hope against the odds.'' - Chris Packham, TV presenter and author of Fingers in the Sparkle Jar.Finding herself in a new home in Brighton, Kate Bradbury sets about transforming her decked, barren backyard into a beautiful wildlife garden. She documents the unbuttoning of the earth and the rebirth of the garden, the rewilding of a tiny urban space. On her own she unscrews, saws and hammers the decking away, she clears the builders'' rubble and rubbish beneath it, and she digs and enriches the soil, gradually planting it up with plants she knows will attract wildlife. She erects bird boxes and bee hotels, hangs feeders and grows nectar- and pollen-rich plants, and slowly brings life back to the garden.But while she's doing this Kate''s neighbours continue to pave and deck their gardens locking them away, the wildlife she tries to save is further threatened, and she feels she's fighting an uphill battle. Is Trade ReviewShines a light on the simple brilliance of life. -- Chris PackhamA moving, unpretentious account of starting again. -- Patrick Barkham * Guardian, Books of the Year *A truly inspiring account of transformation, The Bumblebee Flies Anyway made me simultaneously want to read on to the final page, and rush out to my garden. -- Melissa Harrison * author of All Among the Barley *Bradbury makes a passionate plea for us all to follow her example - to ditch the decking and fill our own outside spaces, however small, with plants. -- Jane Shilling * Daily Mail *Reading this book made me itch to get out into my own garden and peer under piles of dead leaves to look for beetles. A moving tribute to the space Kate Bradbury creates and her skill as a gardener. -- Alys Fowler * The Garden *A glorious thing that is part autobiography, part gardening book and part fierce invective against the sterilisation of our urban landscapes when they are an increasingly important haven for wildlife. * Amateur Gardening *Quirky, passionate and endearing, an inspiring account of bringing a tiny garden back to life. -- Dave Goulson, author of A Sting in the Tale and Bee QuestA beautiful story of a garden brought back from the dead. -- Eleanor Morton * Countryman *A very personal story of love, loss and rebirth. -- Fionnuala Fallon * Irish Times *It made me laugh. It made me cry. It made me mourn the loss of our green spaces but have hope for the wild places that remain. There is no louder, fresher voice for the value of urban wildlife. -- Jules Howard * zoologist and author of Sex on Earth *Bradbury 'unbuttons the earth' and lets the bumblebees, foxgloves and sparrows return at their own pace. A rallying cry for the wildlife garden. -- Louise Gray * author of The Ethical Carnivore *This is an important and timely book. I defy anyone who reads it not to want to do more to help their local wildlife. -- Brigit Strawbridge, wildlife gardener and bee campaignerA gorgeous - and informative - read. -- Penny McCormick * The Gloss *A wonderful and moving book about how a slice of nature at the backdoor offers refuge not only to the city wildlife but to the garden too. -- Alys Fowler * author of Hidden Nature and The Edible Garden *This is a beautiful, heartfelt book of hopeful wildlife gardening in the face of declining habitats and life's tendency to trip us up when we least need it. * Amateur Gardening *Table of ContentsPrologue: A garden Part One: The Bones, A Skeleton Autumn Winter Spring Summer Autumn Winter Spring Part Two: A Phoenix Spring Summer Species list Author acknowledgements If you want to learn more... Index

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom world-renowned biologist Frans de Waal, a groundbreaking work which challenges everything we think we know about animal intelligence. 'A remarkable book by a remarkable scientist' Edward O Wilson author of The Social Conquest of Earth What separates your mind from the mind of an animal? Maybe you think it's your ability to design tools, your sense of self, or your grasp of past and future - all traits that have helped us define ourselves as the pre-eminent species on Earth. But in recent decades, claims of human superiority have been eroded by a revolution in the study of animal cognition. Take the way octopuses use coconut shells as tools, or how elephants can classify humans by age, gender, and language. Take Ayumu, the young male chimpanzee at Kyoto University who demonstrates his species' exceptional photographic memory. Based on research on animals including crows, dolphins, parrots, sheep, wasps, bats, whales, chimpanzees and bonobos, Frans de Waal reveals the scope and depth of animal intelligence, explaining how we have grossly underestimated non-human brains. With astonishing stories of animal cognition, Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are? challenges everything you thought you knew about animal - and human - intelligence. 'A lively, punchy and rigorous review of 20 years of academic studies of animals' mental lives, written by one of the most prominent thinkers in the field... an important corrective to human exceptionalism' Sunday TimesTrade ReviewA lively, punchy and rigorous review of 20 years of academic studies of animals' mental lives, written by one of the most prominent thinkers in the field... It is the half-century-long failure of science and empathy that motivates de Waal's fascinating book... De Waal demolishes the pedestal on which we have placed humanity... [it is] an important corrective to human exceptionalism -- James McConachie * Sunday Times *If you are at all interested in what it is to be an animal, human or otherwise, you should read this book -- Matthew Cobb * Guardian *Compellingly recounted by De Waal, who has a long and distinguished career in animal psychology... This book makes plan [that] we can see plenty of ourselves in our animal cousins too -- Raphael Hogarth * The Times *So, are we 'smart enough to know how smart animals are'? The question will occur to you many times as you read Frans de Waal's remarkable distillations of science in this astonishingly broad-spectrum book. I guarantee one thing: readers come away a lot smarter. As this book shows, we are here on Planet Earth with plenty of intelligent company -- Carl Safina, author * Beyond Words: What Animals Think and Feel *Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are? will completely change your perceptions of the abilities of animals. It is... a fascinating journey of discovery -- Temple Grandin, author * Animals in Translation *This is a remarkable book by a remarkable scientist. Drawing on a growing body of research including his own, de Waal shows that animals, from elephants and chimpanzees to the lowly invertebrates, are not only smarter than we thought, but also engaged in forms of thought we have only begun to understand -- Edward O. Wilson, University Professor Emeritus, Harvard UniversityA thoughtful, balanced argument... written simply enough for nonspecialists but with enough detail to engage academics who want a concise review of the field outside their own areas of expertise. The take-home message may be not only whether humans are smart enough to evaluate nonhuman intelligence, but also whether we are humble and open-minded enough to accept that humans may sometimes not be superior to the nonhumans with whom we share the world -- Irene Pepperberg, author * Alex & Me: How a Scientist and a Parrot Discovered a Hidden World of Animal Intelligence—and Formed a Deep Bond in the Process *Frans de Waal's groundbreaking research has long challenged scientists, philosophers, and theologians to rethink the place of humans in the natural world, showing that we aren't the only species with strategic 'political' behavior, elements of empathy, a sense of justice, and high intelligence. Here he covers not only primates, but a much wider range of species, showing his unique ability to translate the latest findings into sparkling, accessible, provocative books for the thinking public -- Robert Sapolsky, author * Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers *Engaging and provocative... de Waal illuminates the latest ideas and thinking about animal minds and emotions... He challenges us to accept the ultimate findings of this research: Our mental skills are the product of evolution, and all animals from spiders to octopuses to ravens and apes are thinkers in their own ways. And he asks us perhaps the most daunting question of all: Are we really smart enough to understand the minds of other animals? -- Virginia Morell, author * Animal Wise: How We Know Animals Think and Feel *You can't help but get a sense that de Waal has placed another nail in the coffin of behaviorism. In animal after animal, de Waal shows the depths of their intelligence and triumphantly affirms that, yes, we are smart enough to see it, and the clues have been there all along -- Gregory Berns, author * How Dogs Love Us *Frans de Waal brilliantly demonstrates through scientific evidence, inspiring stories, and common sense that we must fully appreciate the continuous evolutionary process that led to intelligence - understanding situations, reasoning, learning, emotional and empathic knowledge, communication, planning, creativity, and problem solving - and to other amazing cognitive skills that allow various species to best survive, each in their own way. A must for those who aspire to transcend the biases of both anthropocentrism and anthropodenial -- Matthieu Ricard, author * Altruism: The Power of Compassion to Change Yourself and the World *A thoroughly engaging, remarkably informative and deeply insightful book * Publishers Weekly *de Waal is persuasive in arguing that the difference between the cognition of the human and those of other animals is one of degree, not of kind, and the clarity of his writing makes for a highly readable book ... After this edifying book, a trip to the zoo may never be the same * Kirkus *This is what science writing should be, and so rarely is: confident but humble; rigorous but suffused with wonder. De Waal writes with the simplicity that comes only with profound understanding. he's a true scientist - free of the reductionist fundamentalism that suffocates so much modern science. The book is an exhilarating but genial journey through evolutionary aeons, across the species barrier, and into the surprisingly companionable worlds of non-human races -- Charles Foster, author of Being the BeastWhen a judge says that a young criminal behaved like an animal he means it as an insult. If he read Frans de Waal's splendid new book he would discover that in reality it as a compliment -- Desmond MorrisDe Waal draws on his own experience and a vast array of scientific papers to support his ideas. His book is rich and digressive... It is certainly a significant contribution to the debate. -- Philip Hoare * New Statesman *Engrossing and remarkable -- Brett Westwood * BBC Wildlife Magazine *Terrific... [de Waal] is a brilliant writer -- Doug Johnstone * Big Issue *[This] guide to animal intelligence will help us adjust our human-centricity a little bit... De Waal sets out not only to explore the topic of animal intelligence [...] but also to investigate why we are so very resistant to accepting the fact that other species share some of our mental traits. In the process, he explores the history of such biases, as well as the research that has challenged them... Are We Smart Enough? is like the lunchtime lecture you might go to... story-driven and personable, so you feel the narrator is there with you, affably offering insights that expand your understanding -- Adrian Barnett * Literary Review *Admirable... [de Waal] offers intimate knowledge of the history of the field together with a vision of its prospects. He skilfully weaves together intellectual history, anecdote[s] about leading figures, accounts of empirical discoveries, philosophical critique and the occasional well-aimed and perfectly weighted slap. Combining wisdom, lightly-worn expertise and an undiminished capacity for wonder, de Waal is not afraid to let a shard of temper show now and again... His reflections over a long an distinguished career will both enlighten the general reader and discomfort those who deserve, in their presuppositions, to be much less comfortable... a remarkable book -- Ian Ground * TLS *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA charming addition to Rizzoli’s carefully curated program of bringing classic books back into print. This beautifully packaged facsimile of Edith Holden’s original diary is filled with a naturalist’s masterful paintings and delightful observations chronicling the English countryside throughout 1906. As one of the few true records of the time in print, the handwritten thoughts and paintings contained in The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady transport readers to a more refined, romantic, and simpler time. Capitalizing on the current Downton Abbey–inspired appetite for Edwardian-era ephemera, fashions, and society, this reproduction brings readers back to a time in which propriety, civility, and an appreciation for the natural world reigned. This souvenir of a bygone era serves not only as a calming touchstone, but a reminder that as long as we choose to see it, we are still surrounded by beauty and grace.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis is the most memorable and surprising collection of wildlife imagery of the year – a gallery of work by more than 70 photographers from 30 countries – all 100 pictures awarded in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition.

Read more less

Book SynopsisHow does a mudskipper fish manage to “walk” on land? Why is the Hoatzin also known as ‘The Stinkbird’? And once the female Pipa toad has laid her eggs, where does she put them? The answers? The mudskipper can “walk” using its pectoral fins, the Hoatzin has a unique digestive system which gives the bird a manure-like odour, and the female Pipa Toad embeds its eggs on its back where they develop to adult stage. Illustrated throughout with outstanding colour photographs, Strange Animals presents the most unusual aspects of 100 of the most unusual species. The selection spans a broad spectrum of wildlife, from the tallest land living mammal, the giraffe, to the light, laughing chorus of Australian kookaburra birds, from the intelligence of the Bottlenose dolphin to octopuses that change colour when they dream to the slow pace of the three-toed sloth. Arranged geographically, the photographs are accompanied by fascinating captions, which explain the quirky characteristics of each entry. Including egg-laying mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, cannibalistic insects and other invertebrates, Strange Animals is a compelling introduction to some of nature’s most curious beasts.Table of ContentsIntroduction Asia Tokay Gharial Japanese Macaque Mudskipper Proboscis Monkey Honeybadger Siamese Fighting Fish Tarsier Mekong ray Saiga Golden snub-nosed monkey Colugo Sturgeon Baikal seal Sloth bear Racoon dog Komodo dragon Slow loris Giant hornet Leaf insect Malayan tapir Africa Aardvark Madagascar chameleon (Brookesia) Giraffe Hoopoe Marabou stork Naked Mole Rat Fat tailed gecko Gaboon viper Tree pangolin Giraffe weevil Aye aye Lungfish Tomato frog Aardvark Okapi Springhare Gerenuk Spotted hyena Hammerhead bat Rain frog, Breviceps fuscus Armadillo girdled lizard Mandrill Australia Duck-billed Platypus Red Kangaroo Emu Koala Laughing Kookaburra Echidna Sugarglider Kakapo Tuatara Archerfish Wombat Tasmanian devil Frilled lizard Thorny devil Funnel web spider Peacock spider Turtle frog Frogmouth Dingo Honeypot ant Witchetty grub Weta Kea Kiwi North America American Bullfrog Beaver Red wolf Ghost bear Alligator gar Thorn bug Wolverine Peccary Star nosed mole Alligator snapping turtle Hellbender Ajolote Blue-footed booby Manatee Monarch butterfly Stinkpot (musk turtle) Rainbow snake Virginia opossum Gila monster Coati American White Pelican Central and South America Giant Otter Vampire bat Hoatzin Emperor Tamarin Pipa Pygmy Marmoset Red Howler Monkey Southern Tamandua Three-toed Sloth South American horned frogs Elephant beetle Axolotl Jaguarundi Capybara Pink fairy armadillo Piranha Marine iguana Pink river dolphin Roseate spoonbill Red lipped batfish Spectacled bear Vicuna Europe Iberian ribbed newt Cuckoo Death’s Head Hawkmoth Great Diving beetle Wels catfish Wisent (European bison) Slow worm Puffin Badger Common chameleon Alpine ibex Beluga sturgeon Oceans Narwhal Angler Fish Cleaner Wrasse Sea dragon Megamouth shark Dumbo octopus Blobfish Giant isopod barreleye fish Kiwa Sea spider Sea anemone Parrot fish Nudibranch Hagfish Mantis shrimp Christmas tree worm Stargazer Wobbegong Gulper eel Oarfish Coral Hammerhead shark

Read more less