Wildlife: general interest Books

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

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Book SynopsisCreative activities and ideas to explore the outdoors. This is a fun and educational outdoor activity book, ideal for green-fingered and nature-friendly families

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Book Synopsis''The future of all life on this earth depends on our willingness to take action now'' David AttenboroughThe official companion to the ground-breaking Netflix original series.With a foreword by Sir David Attenborough, breathtakingly beautiful still photography, specially commissioned maps and graphics, and compelling text expanding on the remarkable TV stories and giving the reader a depth of information that is impossible on screen, this companion book presents a whole new view of the place we call home.Featuring some of the world''s rarest creatures and previously unseen parts of the Earth from deep oceans to remote forests to ice caps, Our Planet takes nature-lovers deep into the science of our natural world.Revealing the most amazing sights on Earth in unprecedented ways, alongside stories of the ways humans are affecting the world''s ecosystems, from the wildebeest migrations in Africa to thTrade ReviewAstonishing book...full of beautiful photographs * Radio Times *Featuring some of the world's rarest creatures and previously unseen parts of the Earth - Our Planet travels deep into the science of our natural world. Revealing the most amazing sights, alongside stories of the way humans are affecting the world's ecosystems - this book is part of a vital global conversation about protecting and preserving the planet. * Compass Magazine *A treat on your coffee table and a fine companion to any binge watch of the series * Wanderlust *Breathtaking photographs * Radio Times *Revealing the most amazing sights on Earth, alongside stories of the way humans are affecting the world's ecosystems, this book places itself at the forefront of a global conversation as we work together to protect and preserve the planet. * Catholic Times *

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Book SynopsisSecret Nature of Devon is an inspirational introduction to the unique character of Devon's countryside, and the animals and plants that are special to the county. The book explores the extraordinary richness of Devon's wildlife habitats: Estuaries, Farmland, Fresh Water, Heathland, Limestone and Chalk, Lundy, Moorland, Sand Dunes, Sea Cliffs, Sea Shore, Woodland, Wood, Pasture and Parkland It includes a comprehensive list of the species that make Devon special, with the best times and places to see them; details of recommended nature reserves and a map showing their locations; and contact details for local wildlife organisations. Secret Nature of Devon is written and photographed by Andrew Cooper, one of the country's leading wildlife film makers, with advice from county Wildlife Trusts, the RSPB, Butterfly Conservation and many other organisations. The title is from one of his most popular, award-winning BBC natural history television series. This book is the first in a major new nationwide series.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements How to Use This Book Introduction Setting the Scene Wild Highlights Section 1: HABITATS & THEIR WILDLIFE Estuary Farmland Fresh Water Heathland Limestone and Chalk Lundy Moorland Sand Dunes Sea Cliffs Sea Shore Slapton Ley Wood Pasture and Parkland Woodland Section 2: WHAT TO SEE & WHERE TO SEE IT What to See: Plants and animals that make Devon special Map: Showing nature reserves and country parks Where to See: Nature reserves and country parks Visitor Attractions Section 3: FURTHER INFORMATION Organisations Books & Guides Index

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Book SynopsisA beautifully lyrical collection of essays on the natural world in Britain by the Guardian's country diary writer Paul Evans. With a title taken from the 1940 Batsford book, this is nature writing for the modern reader. It is a book both for those that live in the country and those that don't, but experience nature every day through brownfield edge lands, transport corridors, urban greenspace, industrialised agriculture and fragments of ancient countryside. Evans weaves historical, cultural and literary references into his writing, ranging from TS Eliot to Bridget Riley, from Hieronymus Bosch to Napoleon. The essays include the The Weedling Wild, on the wildlife of the wasteland: ragwort, rosebay willowherb, giant hogweed and the cinnabar moth; Gardens of Light, about the creatures to be found under moonlight: pipistrelle bats, lacewings and orb-weaver spider; The Flow, with tales from the riverbank, estuaries and seas, including kingfisher, minnow, otter and heron. The Commons looks at meadowland with a human footprint, with the Adonis blue butterfly, horseshoe vetch, skylark, black knapweed and the six-belted clearwing moth. Other chapters look at the wildlife returned to Britain, such as wild boar and polecats, and finds nature in and around landscapes as varied as a domestic garden or a wild moor. The book ends with an alphabetical bestiary, an idiosyncratic selection of British wildlife based on the author's personal encounters.Trade Review'Evans has a lovely way of writing, evocative with an eye for detail on the bigger picture' * Half Man Half Book *'There is profound yet unobtrusive elegance in Paul Evans’ writing' * The Ecologist *'There is profound yet unobtrusive elegance in Paul Evans’ writing.' -- Peter Reason * Resurgence & Ecologist Review *'It’s the perfect collection to dip into and out of at leisure and is perfect for anyone with a natural history bent' * Epicurean *'It’s like going on a short walk with a knowledgeable guide. Refreshing and educational.' * The People's Friend *‘By celebrating [the natural world] so beautifully, Evans is playing as important a role in its conservation as anybody.' * Birdwatching *'The ordinary becomes extraordinary in this fascinating book' -- Miriam Darlington * BBC Wildlife *

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Book SynopsisDiscover the best places to spot 300 of the world’s most exciting and unusual creatures, from the soaring Andean condor and prowling Bengal tiger, to singing humpback whales and migrating wildebeest. For many people, one of the most rewarding experiences of travel is seeing creatures you wouldn’t encounter back home. Whether you set out to see them on safari or spot them by sheer luck, there’s a thrill and a beauty in watching a wild animal in its natural habitat. That’s why we created Lonely Planet’s A-Z of Wildlife Watching. It’s packed with stunning photos, details of each creature’s habits and characteristics, and tips on how to increase the chances of an encounter. Inside, you’ll find all the most iconic animals like lions, tigers, elephants and sharks, but we’ve gone even further than these headline acts to showcase the mind-blowing diversity of the natural world, with other animals including: snow leopards, mountain goats, antelopes, fennec foxes, giant albatrosses, hog-nosed bats, giant clams, corals, whales, wobbegongs, birdwing butterflies and Hercules beetles. Created in consultation with biologist and writer Amy-Jane Beer, and with a foreword by nature photographer Mark Carwardine.

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Book SynopsisDiscover the simple and considerate things YOU can do to save the elephant- and the world!In recent years, the global elephant population has diminished rapidly in recent years. Both Asian and African elephants face a number of grave threats, including poaching and loss of habitat. African elephant numbers are estimated to have dropped by 30% in the past decade alone. These beautiful creatures need your help more than ever, but it's never been so easy to make a difference. 50 Ways to Save the Elephants is packed with steps you can take to help elephant populations recover and protect elephants in captivity. Whether it's engaging in online activism from your home, helping to reduce climate change, or being a conscientious consumer and traveler, these simple contributions will benefit more than just the elephants - they also help make a difference in our community and the world!

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Book SynopsisThis practical pocket field guide, published in association with the Wildlife Trusts, includes 150 butterfly and moth species from Britain and the near Continent. Each species account contains accurate artworks that show details to help readers differentiate between male and female butterflies, moths and caterpillars of varying species. A concise written account outlines further essential information, such as size, description, habitat, flight times, distribution, foodplants and habits.The easy-to-follow layouts and illustrations aid quick identification, and make this book an indispensable reference in the field as well as at home. It is compact enough to fit in the pocket, yet filled with essential information for nature enthusiasts.Table of ContentsIntroduction Butterflies - Skippers - Swallowtails - Whites - Hairstreaks - Coppers - Blues - Metalmarks - Emperors - Vanessids - Fritillaries - Danaids - Browns Moths - Micropterigids - Leaf Rollers - Pyralid Moths - Plume Moths - Swift Moths - Leopard & Goat Moths - Forester Moths - Burnet Moths - Clearwing Moths - Eggar Moths - Kentish Glory - Emperor Moths - Lutestring Moths - Geometer Moths - Hawkmoths - Prominent & Kitten Moths - Footman Moths - Tiger Moths - Ermines - Cinnabar Moth - Processionary Moths - Noctuid Moths

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Book SynopsisThe second edition of Richard Lewington''s pocket guide to the butterflies of Great Britain and IrelandPresented in an accessible, easy-to-use format, this is an ideal guide for both beginners and more experienced enthusiasts. It includes more than 600 superb illustrations of all the life stages of each species, together with beautiful artworks of the butterflies in their natural settings and pertinent species information, distribution maps and life history charts. The second edition features a new, illustrated at-a-glance' identification guide, updated distribution maps and species accounts, and new spreads and artwork for the Cryptic Wood White and Scarce Tortoiseshell.Trade ReviewThis is a beautiful piece of work and exceeds any expectation that one might have of a pocket guide, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. -- Peter Eeles * UK Butterflies website *This is an excellent edition of a very useful, beautiful, well priced and portable guide. -- Dr Katie Cruickshanks * Butterfly Magazine *This is a good update to an already excellent book, with the addition of the 'at a glance' guide and new treatment of the wood whites likely to tempt some owners of the first edition to move to the new edition. -- Mike Toms * BTO *This is the second edition of the essential pocket guide to UK lepidoptera. Climate change is altering the shape of our butterfly life, but in this up-to-date guide you'll find precise illustrations showing the top and underwing for both sexes, plus eggs, larvae, pupae, associated plants and locator map for each species. * RSPB Nature's Home magazine: pick of new nature books *Richard Lewington’s butterfly paintings are legendary … the text is also first rate. It is filled with facts and oozes common sense. So far as UK butterfly field guides go, this is as good as it gets. -- John Tennent * Atropos *This easy-to-follow fact-packed field guide is perfect for beginners and compact enough to slip into your rucksack or pocket when out for a stroll. * Caravan Club Magazine *Table of ContentsIntroduction Conservation The structure of a butterfly The life cycle of a butterfly The six butterfly families How to use this guide At-a-glance guide Main descriptions Swallowtail Skippers Whites and yellows Browns Fritillaries, admirals and tortoiseshells Duke of Burgundy Coppers, hairstreaks and blues Extinct species and rare migrants Day-flying moths Further reading Index

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Book SynopsisRSPB ID Spotlight Garden Birds is a reliable fold-out chart that presents illustrations of 39 of our most widespread and familiar garden birds by renowned artist Stephen Message.Whether you are watching small birds at your garden bird feeder or a raptor soaring overhead, birds are everywhere. But could you recognise a Marsh Tit from a Coal Tit? Or distinguish between a Song Thrush and a Redwing? These are just a handful of the array of birds that are attracted to the UK''s gardens to nest and feed.The species are grouped by family and helpfully labelled to assist with identification, while the artworks are shown side by side for quick comparison and easy reference at home or in the field. The reverse of the chart provides information on the habitats, behaviour, life cycles and diets of our garden birds, as well as the conservation issues they are facing and how the RSPB is working to support them. Practical tips on how to make your own ''bird pastry'' and put up nest boxeTrade ReviewThey are great for showing children the wide variety of species […] and small enough to take away with you on location, or just to keep in the car. -- John Miles * Bird Watching *Table of ContentsIntroducing the UK’s Garden Birds Habitat Distribution and Migration General Behaviour, Life Cycle and Diet Conservation Spotlight ID with Artwork

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Book SynopsisRSPB ID Spotlight Wetland Birds is a reliable fold-out chart that presents illustrations of 51 of our most widespread and familiar wetland birds by renowned artist Stephen Message.Whether you are listening to a flock of geese communicate as they fly overhead or watching a group of feeding waders on an estuary, wetland birds are among the UK''s most gregarious and charming waterbirds. But do you know a Coot from a Moorhen? And can you tell the difference between a Wigeon and a Pochard? The UK''s wildlife-rich freshwater habitats are home to a diverse collection of our most beautiful wild bird species.The species are grouped by family and helpfully labelled to assist with identification, while the artworks are shown side by side for quick comparison and easy reference at home or in the field. The reverse of the chart provides information on the habitats, behaviour, life cycles and diets of our wetland birds, as well as the conservation issues they are facing and how the RSPTable of ContentsIntroducing the UK’s Wetland Birds Habitat Distribution and Migration General Behaviour, Life Cycle and Diet Conservation Spotlight ID with Artwork

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Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE PEOPLE''S BOOK PRIZE FOR NON-FICTION AND LONGLISTED FOR THE JAMES CROPPER WAINWRIGHT PRIZE FOR WRITING ON CONSERVATION.''Enchanting a joy to read.'' JOANNA LUMLEY''Vibrant and vital.'' CHRIS PACKHAM''Forget Me Not is a tonic.'' TIMES LITERARY SUPPLEMENT''Remarkable.'' NELL FRIZZELL''A fierce, passionate stand for the wild.'' MEGAN MCCUBBIN''Funny, full of interest and often poignant.'' ISABELLA TREE''Beautiful. Rare. Profound. Hopeful.'' CHARLOTTE PHILBY''Passionate, pragmatic and seriously funny.'' GILLIAN BURKE''Wonderfully refreshing.'' BENEDICT MACDONALDJoin Sophie Pavelle on a low-carbon journey around Britain in search of ten animals and habitats threatened by climate change in the 21st century.Forget-me-not a beautiful flower and a plea from our islands' wildlife. When climate change has driven dozens of our most charismatic species to extinction, will they be forTrade ReviewThis enchanting book could not be more timely: it brings much to inspire our future thinking, and is a joy to read. * Joanna Lumley *Vibrant and vital. The trials of ten treasured species that we can’t afford to fail. A biological romp with a real mission. -- Chris Packham * broadcaster and author of Fingers in the Sparkle Jar *This engaging romp in search of our most endangered species is a timely reminder of the magic we have in nature and what we are set to lose if we don’t wake up. Funny, full of interest and often poignant, travelling with Sophie Pavelle is a journey to remember. * Isabella Tree, author of Wilding *A fierce, passionate stand for the wild. * Megan McCubbin, zoologist, conservationist and broadcaster *Forget Me Not sings and rings with a distinctive combination of passion, humour and energy; Sophie Pavelle's low-carbon journey round the overlooked, undersung species of our island group makes a heartfelt plea for the need to conserve, restore and replenish the wildlife we have left. -- Robert Macfarlane * author of Underland *If the canon of British nature writing has a reputation for being male and overly earnest, then Sophie Pavelle’s Forget Me Not is a one-book rebalancing act. -- India Bourke * New Statesman *This is such a beautiful book. Full of humour, adventure, poignancy. It will make you value the country around you and even hungrier to protect it. Remarkable. -- Nell Frizzell * journalist and author of The Panic Years *Forget Me Not is a tonic... Pavelle’s writing is a delight, full of extended sartorial or food-related metaphors, puns and cheeky humour. -- Rebecca Foster * Times Literary Supplement *The prose is as lyrical as it is sassy, as insightful as it is impassioned. -- Amy-Jane Beer * Guardian Book of the Day *A clarion call for us all to do something to make a difference. -- Ceri Levy * Caught by the River *Urgent and challenging, but also fun and beautifully written, Sophie documents her low-carbon journeys exposing the reality of climate change in Britain. -- Simon Reeve * broadcast journalist, adventurer and author of Step by Step *Beautiful. Rare. Profound. Hopeful. -- Charlotte Philby * author of A Double Life *Finding wonder in the familiar and celebrating the unknown in the everyday, this is a beautiful book - and so perfectly told. -- Professor Ben Garrod * author, broadcaster, biologist *Sophie Pavelle writes with the urgency and voice of a generation. Her commitment is matched with a fierce knowledge of conservation biology and policymaking, whose murky corridors are expertly navigated. Passionate, pragmatic and seriously funny. -- Gillian Burke * biologist, presenter and writer *From rare butterflies to bats and bumblebees, Sophie takes us on a breathless but strangely relaxing whistle-stop tour of Britain in search of some of our less familiar, fragile and fascinating wildlife. Charming, witty and moving. -- Professor Dave Goulson * Professor of Biology and author of A Sting in the Tale *Pavelle is the best kind of science writer – who makes you feel almost as smart as she is, priming and signposting in such a way that you grasp the punchline in the moment before she delivers it. Make no mistake, this is serious stuff, requiring serious communication. But she balances love and irreverence, data and ditz. I loved the breezy humour, the sass and savviness. -- Dr Amy-Jane Beer * naturalist, writer, campaigner and Guardian Country Diarist *A wonderfully refreshing look at the vanishing species around us, what they mean and why they matter. -- Benedict Macdonald * naturalist, wildlife TV producer and author of Rebirding *Forget Me Not is that enchanting book that makes you want to put on your hiking boots and big coat, get outdoors and immerse yourself in nature. Sophie’s writing is funny and accessible whilst being a call to arms for us to protect Britain’s most vulnerable species. Perfect for old hats and newbies to wildlife. Highly recommended. -- Dr Amir Khan * NHS doctor, broadcaster, author and Vice President of The Wildlife Trusts *Sophie has a warm tone of voice in this enjoyable and accessible read. * BBC Wildlife magazine *Pavelle has a lively mind and sense of humour ... [she] explains the science well and has done a serious amount of research. -- Simon Lester * Country Life magazine *Here is a vibrant and vital voice from the millennial generation that is fighting climate change and its devastating effect on the world around us. -- Ceri Levy * Caught by the River *Like the captured sunshine she describes persisting in a seagrass meadow even on a cloudy day, she [Pavelle] has captured a different kind of light here, that of youth and love and hope. -- Dr Amy-Jane Beer * Guardian Book of the Day *Pavelle pulls no punches, giving the facts as they are, but weaving them together with a poetic touch and some light-hearted relief. It felt counterintuitive to be chuckling out loud while reading a book about such a bleak topic, but that is the beauty of Forget Me Not. -- Jeni Bell * British Wildlife *A lively introduction to the nature crisis in the British Isles. * New Statesman *Her style is lively, casual and autobiographical, and her book would suit young people new to nature writing and keen to learn more about the biodiversity on our doorstep. -- Katie Burton * Geographical *This is perfection. -- Ben Goldsmith * environmentalist *Gritty, amusing and wonderfully educational, a truly inspiring account of species at the forefront of climate change in Britain. -- Jake Fiennes * author of Land Healer *A journey well worth joining. -- David Brown * Best of Britain *Sophie Pavelle's book properly stands out in the increasingly crowded nature writing field. She writes powerfully about vital issues, in a totally fresh, funny and accessible way that is distinctively her own. Loved it. -- Lee Schofield * author of Wild Fell *An absolute triumph in science communication. -- Leif Bersweden * author of The Orchid Hunter and Where the Wildflowers Grow *Passionate and thought-provoking. -- Mark Whitley * Countryman *It's full of wonder and joy. And crucially, it's written in the voice of a friend [...] while there's wit and warmth flowing through each chapter, the message never stops being urgent. * Country Walking *Pavelle’s weapons in the face of these difficult truths are positivity and action. -- Katie Burton * Geographical *This is a very thought-provoking read and hopefully will inspire us to do something about it [climate change] to prevent future losses. -- John Miles * Bird Watching *...amusing and thought-provoking. -- Kim Smith * Bury and West Suffolk magazine *A book about climate change with deep adoration for the natural world at its heart. -- Francesca Donovan * The Great Outdoors *Low-carbon wandering propels Sophie Pavelle’s jauntier tour of climate-change Britain in Forget Me Not. * Country & Town House *...refreshingly new voice. -- Stephen MossAt the heart of Sophie’s book is a fierce and merlin-like love of all that is wild. -- Nick Acheson * author of The Meaning of Geese *This book aims to challenge and it succeeds with a quiet and constant hum of urgency. -- Mannie Coe * author of brother.do.you.love.me *Before reading Forgot Me Not, I hadn’t thought it possible to write a book about the effect of climate change on different species that is buoyant, funny and hopeful - yet Sophie Pavelle has pulled it off superbly. This book is wonderful. -- Claire Ratinon * author of Unearthed *Engaging, compelling and more important than ever. -- Sarah Langford * author of In Your Defence and Rooted *Packed with facts from the experts she meets on her travels, we learn a lot about the underdog species that have missed our attention ... This is Sophie’s first release, and like the species she discovers, it’s not to be forgotten. * Rewilding Britain *A remarkable and fascinating book that manages to convey a wealth of facts about the daunting future of these species… with humour and lightness of touch. -- Tom Tivnan * The Bookseller *Seldom have I learned so much, while laughing out loud. A joyous but quietly angry book about the beauty of Britain’s wildlife, how we have failed it, how to save it, and how accessible it is by public transport. At the end I felt determined to see our most threatened species protected. -- Louise Gray * author of Avocado Anxiety *A unique, brilliant and beautiful new way of writing and celebrating the good stuff, whilst reminding us of the precarity of it all […] Forget Me Not is fresh and funny, sharp and poignant; stop scrolling and read this book! -- Nicola Chester * author of On Gallows Down *A lovely journey into our wildest places with the inspiring message: conservation works and we should let it. -- Charles Clover * journalist, conservationist and author of Rewilding the Sea *A lightness of touch, given to a serious subject: that's what makes this British journey urgent reading, for young and old. I loved this book — a moving story about what we're losing, introduced to me by my son, who urged me to read it. * journalist and author of The Lost Pianos of Siberia *A beautiful, immersive read. -- Clover Stroud * author of The Red of my Blood *Pavelle's wit makes the book a joy to read. -- Sam Taylor * The Times *If getting people to listen is key to highlighting today’s conservation issues, then [Pavelle], with her ability to communicate so passionately and knowledgeably, is unlocking all the doors. -- Jeni Bell * British Wildlife *Table of ContentsCHAPTER ONE: MARSH FRITILLARY I begin my journey in the south-west of England, where I take a short train and cycle ride to Bodmin Moor to see one of the UK’s rarest species of butterfly, which is persisting deep in the heart of the Cornish mire despite unimaginable challenges. CHAPTER TWO: HARBOUR PORPOISE Wasting no time, next I head straight to the Welsh coast, where I travel to Pembrokeshire to try and spot Britain’s smallest cetacean feeding amid the infamous tidal races and renewable energy developments. CHAPTER THREE: SEAGRASS Staying in Wales and heading north to Snowdonia, I snorkel the freezing waters of the Irish Sea to find out why seagrass is fast becoming the habitat that we cannot afford to lose. CHAPTER FOUR: GREY LONG-EARED BAT Back home in Devon again, I hike one of my favourite stretches of the Jurassic coast to a rural farm to see whether I can find one of the last maternity roosts of Britain’s rarest and most elusive bat. CHAPTER FIVE: BLACK GUILLEMOT Eager to get up to Scotland, I venture to the Orkney Islands, specifically the northernmost isle of this unique archipelago, to spend time with one of the British Isles’ most overlooked seabirds and try to understand more about the threats this quirky bird faces. CHAPTER SIX: DUNG BEETLES Testing out how ready the UK is to function on electric vehicles, I borrow an electric car and drive to Knepp Castle Estate to learn why dung and its beetles are making a resurgence in this tiny patch of England and why we cannot ignore dung. CHAPTER SEVEN: ATLANTIC SALMON Back home to Devon and into a kayak, I travel down a swollen, autumnal river to try and understand why, in the face of climate change, the epic salmon run might become a feat of the past. CHAPTER EIGHT: MOUNTAIN HARE Travelling north to Scotland again, I head to the high heather moorlands of the East Cairngorms to see our native mountain hare and investigate why they are set to become strangers in their own habitat if temperatures continue to rise. CHAPTER NINE: MERLIN Cycling across England’s Peak District to the Dark Peak, I’m searching for Britain’s smallest falcon, hoping to discover why we keep forgetting about these birds and how they will fare in a warming world. CHAPTER TEN: BILBERRY BUMBLEBEE Finishing on my home patch, I make a final trip to Dartmoor, searching for Britain’s ‘mountain bee’ and one of its last surviving populations in the south-west to understand better why its upland habitat might become too hot to handle.

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Book SynopsisGarden Wildlife is a book that looks at the habitats in our gardens from the point of view of wild animal and plants. If we understand our gardens in this way, then we can appreciate that different parts of our gardens essentially mimic wild habitats in microcosm. This means that we can provide places for wild animals and plants to flourish in our gardens, whether they happen to be in rural, suburban or urban settings. Above all, we need to get away from the current obsession with tidiness and sterility in our gardens, and allow odd corners to go wild, so that our native species can live alongside us in the modern world. Without wildlife to discover and observe in our gardens, our lives are impoverished, so we have a duty to ourselves and our children to invite nature back into our outside spaces.

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Book SynopsisTransform your garden into a haven for all kinds of wildlife.In a world with too much concrete and not enough greenery, every wildlife-friendly garden can make a huge difference. But what if we told you that you can make a difference to your local wildlife from the comfort of your own home? You can help to reverse the decline in bird numbers and much more by creating a haven in which they will thrive! Let author, presenter, and wildlife conservationist Dan Rouse show you how you can make your outdoor space more welcoming for a wide variety of visitors, from planting pollinator-friendly perennials to providing access for curious hedgehogs. Learn the best ways to provide shelter, food, and water, discover the best planting choices and how they can help, then sit back and watch as your garden becomes a much-needed refuge for a huge range of species.Dive straight in to discover:- A beautiful mixture of full-colour illustrations and photos of

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Book Synopsis“If you have been still enough for long enough, your eyes will have attuned and begun to read the sea-surge fluently, so you recognize the blunt curve and flourished tail of a diving otter. Home your eyes in on that portion of the sea, permit nothing else to move, and you will see the otter eel-catching, resurfacing.” It is a special privilege and a richly rewarding experience to observe a wild animal hunting, interacting with its young or its mate, exploring its habitat, or escaping a predator. To watch wildlife, it’s essential not only to learn an animal’s ways, the times and places you may find it, but also to look inward: to station yourself, focus, and wait. The experience depends on your stillness, silence, and full attention, watching and listening with minimal movement and if possible staying downwind so that your presence is not sensed. With decades of close observation of wild animals and birds, Jim Crumley has found himself up close and personal with many of our most elusive creatures, studying their movements, noting details, and offering intimate insights into their extraordinary lives. Here, he draws us into his magical world, showing how we can learn to watch wildlife well, and what doing so can mean for our ability to care for it, and care for ourselves.Trade Review'Incredibly meditative and vivid … joyful and magical … a truly enchanting read.' -- Book of the Month, The Scots Magazine

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Book SynopsisAccessible, yet authoritative guide to observing and recording wildlife and the natural world, aimed at every nature enthusiast.

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Book Synopsis

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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"

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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 Review Wild 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 *

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Book SynopsisThe Natural History of Selborne (1789)is written as a series of letters, which describe with wit and precision the flora and fauna White observes in his Hampshire parish. A classic of nature writing, this edition includes contemporary illustrations, a contextualizing introduction, and an appendix of readers' responses over 200 years.Trade ReviewI can wholeheartedly recommend this edition ... Beautifully produced ... Secords introduction - surely one of the chief reasons to purchase this new edition of a book never out of print - provides a nuanced and stimulating account of the origins, character, and legacies of Selborne. * Diarmid A. Finnegan, Journal of Historical Geography *Any book that delighted both Virginia Woolf and Charles Darwin is a must-read, in my opinion. But this little gem of a book is also beautifully produced and has some added useful context. * GrrlScientist, Guardian *A natural history must-read in a new edition. * New Scientist *This Oxford edition offers new insights into a work that has been hugely popular. * Land and Business *This comfortable pocket edition of the classic work ... is a delight to handle and read. This will certainly be one of my future travelling companions. * Biological Journal of the Linnean Society *

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Book SynopsisA state-of-the art analysis of conservation as practiced by zoos and aquariums worldwide today.Trade Review"The role of zoos and aquariums is constantly evolving, particularly as there is pressure to increase their contribution to conservation. This collection ably shows that zoos and aquariums are not a flotilla of little arks that have to be self-sufficient. Rather, we should be better grounded in the social fabric of our communities, better networked, and better connected to the animals outside our walls."--Jenny Gray, CEO of Zoos Victoria, Australia, and president of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums "In an age of extinction, 'wild' places are increasingly being managed like zoos. What role do actual zoos and aquariums have to play? The Ark and Beyond looks at this question from all angles; the result is both informative and thought-provoking."--Elizabeth Kolbert, author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning "The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History" "The Ark and Beyond is essential reading for anyone interested in our tangled and evolving relationship with zoos and aquariums. At the zoo we find ourselves at the shifting borderland between the wild and the walled. This book's editors and contributors explore that territory, bringing together decades of practical and theoretical expertise in conservation biology, history, and education. Their insights will deeply inform and benefit readers wrestling with the complex questions we find ourselves asking when we lock eyes with our kindred creatures."--Curt Meine, Aldo Leopold Foundation & Center for Humans and Nature

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Book SynopsisMy Family and Other Animals is the bewitching account of a rare and magical childhood on the island of Corfu by treasured British conservationist Gerald Durrell. Escaping the ills of the British climate, the Durrell family - acne-ridden Margo, gun-toting Leslie, bookworm Lawrence and budding naturalist Gerry, along with their long-suffering mother and Roger the dog - take off for the island of Corfu.But the Durrells find that, reluctantly, they must share their various villas with a menagerie of local fauna - among them scorpions, geckos, toads, bats and butterflies.Recounted with immense humour and charm My Family and Other Animals is a wonderful account of a rare, magical childhood.''Durrell has an uncanny knack of discovering human as well as animal eccentricities'' Sunday Telegraph''A bewitching book'' Sunday TimesTrade ReviewDurrell has an uncanny knack of discovering human as well as animal eccentricities * Sunday Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisA compelling and innovative exploration of how animals shaped the birth of natural history and its ecological afterlivesTrade Review“Full of insight and wit, Curious Species is a genre-expanding account of knowledge and politics. Deeply researched and a joy to read, this book illuminates the ways animals from rattlesnakes to raccoons co-made our understandings of them.”—Bathsheba Demuth, author of Floating Coast: An Environmental History of the Bering Strait“A provocative, sparklingly written hybrid work combining original historical scholarship with lively first-person narrative and natural historical observation.”—Anya Zilberstein, author of A Temperate Empire: Making Climate Change in Early America“Early modern cabinets of curiosity generated sensations of wonder. So does Curious Species, with its awe-inspiring tales from the past and breathless accounts of Whitney Barlow Robles’s fearless pursuit of rare coral, raccoons, and rattlesnakes.”—Peter C. Mancall, author of Nature and Culture in the Early Modern Atlantic“Curious Species is exceptional: Whitney Robles has crafted a highly original, convincing, nuanced, and thought provoking study of how curiosity and animal nature overlap to shape, inspire, and circumscribe knowledge.”—Cameron B. Strang, author of Frontiers of Science: Imperialism and Natural Knowledge in the Gulf South Borderlands, 1500–1850“A captivating account of the many ways in which humans and other animals made each other ‘curious,’ in the eighteenth century and today. Whitney Barlow Robles expertly leads us in pursuit of Enlightenment naturalists as they observe, describe, depict, collect, and preserve corals, rattlesnakes, fish, and raccoons across the world, and reflects on what it means to follow in their footsteps in the present.”—Daniela Bleichmar, author of Visual Voyages: Images of Latin American Nature from Columbus to Darwin

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Book SynopsisANIMALS ARE PEOPLE TOO explores the range of human emotion in 240 pages of adorable animals photos.What''s the difference between bliss and solace? Misery and sorrow? Bitterness and malice?In ANIMALS ARE PEOPLE TOO, each page presents animal portraits that illustrate everything from the depths of sadness to the heights of joy. At times hilarious, at times poignant, but always visually stunning, see yourself in the animal world with images such as indulgence personified by a chubby-cheeked chipmunk, glee shown by a dancing tree frog, and infatuation portrayed by the entwined necks of two giraffes.

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Book SynopsisThis book guides people as to what they can see at different times of year (it is useful year-round) and describes trees, flowers, plants, insects, birds and mammals that can be found in UK woodlands. It weaves fascinating facts with snippets of folklore.

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Book Synopsis'A warm and inspiring invitation to put down our phones, pick up a pencil and start really looking at the beauty all around us.' - Kathy Clugston, presenter of Gardeners' Question TimeLearn to let go of your worries and lose yourself in nature with this practical guide to sketching for pleasure, not perfection. Most of us know that creativity and time outdoors are good for our wellbeing, yet so many of us struggle to find the time or motivation to step away from our screens. But there’s a solution! Combining quick and easy exercises with the latest research on nature connection, wellbeing and creativity, The Green Sketching Handbook will inspire you to pick up a pencil and get started.Inspired by her own journey from climate scientist who hadn't tried drawing since childhood to artist and nature lover, Dr Ali Foxon will show you how to embrace your wobbly lines, unhook from a fear of criticism and create a habit that makes you feel good, not inadequate. You will learn more about yourself and your unique relationship with nature, finding out what brings you comfort and joy. Best of all, you'll create vivid and evocative memories of all your outdoor adventures, big and small, even if you’re convinced you can’t draw.Trade ReviewThe health of our planet and the people that depend upon it are being run down because of our collective blindness toward nature. Re-engaging and connecting people with the natural world is a vital prerequisite for a secure future, and this lovely little book provides one wonderful gateway to that. -- Tony Juniper CBE, environmentalist and chair of Natural EnglandA warm and inspiring invitation to put down our phones, pick up a pencil and start really looking at the beauty all around us. -- Kathy Clugston, presenter of Gardeners' Question TimeA joyful, beautifully illustrated and thought-provoking book. Use it to sketch more, reconnect with nature and spread the word. -- Anne Swithinbank, expert horticulturalist and panelist for Gardeners' Question TimeAli Foxon’s The Green Sketching Handbook helps you make that great leap from the sofa and screen to the outdoors... benefiting your brain and your wellbeing. Powered completely by fresh air, pencils and paper, The Green Sketching Handbook bypasses your keyboard completely. No screens needed. -- Asher Minns, Tyndall Centre for Climate ChangeIn a time of uncertainty, fear and gloom this is a book that shines bright like a diamond. Everyone can benefit from reconnecting with nature and this is such an honest, engaging and accessible guide. I think it will change many people's lives for the better and bring pleasure, hope and mental peace. So bring on the green sketching revolution. -- Andy Brown, Head of Sustainability, Anglian Water Group

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Book Synopsis'Rousing, polemical and heartfelt' - Gardens Illustrated'An invitation to take action' - The ObserverOne thing has become clear this year - we need nature more than ever. And it needs us too.From our balconies and gardens to our woodlands, national parks and beyond, Back to Nature captures the essence of how we feel about the wildlife outside our windows. Through personal stories, conservation breakthroughs and scientific discoveries, it explores the wonder and the solace of nature, and the ways in which we can connect with it - and protect it.Trade ReviewWell-researched and more nuanced than you might expect... And so Back to Nature is also an invitation to take action, showing how ordinary people can become activists. * The Observer *The main text is scattered with sparkling jewels of fascinating science on everything from how trees communicate to what birds dream of when they sleep. There are some truly inspiring tales... Rousing, polemical and heartfelt, Back to Nature is not afraid to challenge the status quo and it will fill you with a determination to take action. * Gardens Illustrated *Engaged, resolute and convincing... this could also be the most important book you've read in a long time. * BBC Countryfile *

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Book SynopsisThis dazzling collection showcases the very best of the British Wildlife Photography Awards, presenting over 150 of the winning, commended and shortlisted images from the 2017 competition. Featuring a range of photography from world-leading professionals as well as inspired amateurs, it is a book that captures the magnificent diversity of the British Isles. British Wildiife Photography Awards is divided into the competition's fifteen categories, from Animal Portraits through to the Young People's Awards. Every photograph is beautifully reproduced in a large format, with detailed technical information alongside the photographer's personal account, to appeal to both photographers and natural historians.Trade Review"Each year the British Wildlife Photography Awards generates an incredible catalogue of splendid, exciting, imaginative and artistic images, proving beyond doubt that we have the richest palette of life to celebrate in our own backyard. Anyone passionate about protecting and preserving wildlife will be inspired by the British Wildlife Photography Awards, which has done more than any other award to raise the profile of British wildlife." --Chris Packham, TV Presenter and Naturalist

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Book SynopsisCelebrating the 10th anniversary of the British Wildlife Photography Awards, this stunning collection showcases 150 of the winning and shortlisted images from the 2019 competition. Curating the year's finest work from world-leading professionals and inspired amateurs, it celebrates the extraordinary diversity of British wildlife while inspiring readers of all ages to engage with nature and conservation. Every photograph is beautifully reproduced in a large format, with detailed technical information alongside the photographer's personal account. Featuring a fresh new design, and supported by a touring exhibition and major media campaign, this is both an essential reference and an irresistible gift. It will bring every reader closer to the often unseen and always surprising world of British nature.

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Book SynopsisConnecting with nature. Back to the real world. That's what this book is all about. From island-hopping in the Isles of Scilly to wild camping along Scotland's Whale Route, Family Wildlife Adventures is full of inspiration for exploring Britain's amazing wildlife with your children. Family travel expert and father of two William Gray has your weekends and school holidays sorted with exciting ideas for adventures by canoe, bike, campervan, boat and more. From time travel along Dorset's Jurassic Coast to canoe-camping in the Norfolk Broads or sea kayaking in the Hebrides, you'll find 50 experiences in this book guaranteed to fuel any child's love of wildlife and adventure. Some of them might reward you with sightings of puffins, otters, eagles or seals. Others may reveal small wonders, like dragonflies, blennies and lizards. But no matter which adventure you choose, you and your family will be transported to one of Britain's special wild places. Armed with all the practical information you need to plan a fun and safe day out, week or weekend away, this Bradt guide has something for all families keen to discover the natural wonders of Britain - and have unforgettable adventures along the way.Trade Review"William Gray possesses that rare gift of being equally at home with a pen and a camera. Lit from within by his abiding passion for the natural world, his words and pictures are guaranteed to appeal to the child in all of us." Brian JackmanTable of ContentsENGLAND Island-Hopping Adventure Cornish Coast Wildlife Safari River Fowey Adventure Foraging along the Devon Coast Lundy Island Adventure Exmoor Pony Trek On the Night Watch Jurassic Coast Adventure New Forest Reptile Ramble Island Campervan Safari Rewilding Safari at Knepp Wildlife Tracking and Bushcraft A Day in the Urban Jungle Wetland Wonders Adventure Cotswold Water Park Safari A Paddle along the River Wye Witness a Murmuration Canoeing on the Broads Seal Spotting in Norfolk Bike Glamping in the Peak District Motorway Stop Safari On the Trail of the Red Squirrel Yorkshire Moors by Rail and Bike Farm and Fell Safari Dark Sky Adventure Farne Islands Boat Trip WALES Gower Coast Adventure On the Trail of the Puffin Cardigan Bay Wildlife Safari On the Trail of the Kite Tree House Adventure Snowdonia Wilderness Adventure Journey to the Edge of Wales SCOTLAND Wild Winter Goose Chase Seeing Red in Galloway Tree Climbing Adventure On the Trail of Leaping Salmon Bass Rock Boat Trip Loch Lomond Farm Adventure Hebridean Island Escape Isle of Islay Adventure Eagle Island Adventure On the Trail of the Otter Sea Kayaking in Arisaig Hike and Kayak on Skye Cairngorms Wilderness Adventure Dolphin Beach Watch Wild Camping on the Whale Trail Western Isles Wildlife Safari Journey to the End of Britain

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Book Synopsis"An animal is a prescription without side effects."Do you love animals? Do you feel a connection with a furry friend? Do you believe animals offer something that can touch and heal a human heart?My Therapist and Other Animals tells of the healing bond that can be created when animals are participants in our lives. These true stories document the loving connection between humans and those with whom we share a planet. Written by René Chorley, an experienced attachment therapist, it illustrates how animals can reach through the pain of abuse, neglect and trauma and reignite the ability to feel safe, cared for and valued.Animals can make a difference in our lives. They are consistent and unconditional in their time, attention and affection, qualities that may be missing in the lives of so many. Each story brings to life a connection - whether it be an exceptional dog offering friendship or a squeaky guinea pig excited for feed time, our importance in their lives feeds our self-worth.These heart-warming stories prove that this connection has the power to overcome all.

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Book SynopsisThis new, fifth edition of Bradt's Madagascar Wildlife, first published over 25 years ago, celebrates the unique fauna of this remarkable Indian Ocean island. Written by naturalist tour-leaders and Madagascar experts, and aimed at visitors and natural-history enthusiasts alike, this guide has been thoroughly updated to reflect both the latest discoveries - on an island where new species for science are continuously discovered - and the latest developments at the country's top wildlife-tourism locations. Wildlife is the key draw for English-speaking visitors to Madagascar. Enjoying nature couldn't be more different to continental Africa. Rather than going out on safari to see the Big Five from the safety of a jeep, in Madagascar you approach wildlife on rainforest strolls, without fear of encountering dangerous snakes or angry elephants. From its endearing lemurs and comical chameleons to the endemic birds and bizarre insects, this is the only guide to showcase the whole range of Madagascar's captivating wildlife. It features lively descriptions of animals and their behaviour - perfect for the interested layman - complemented by 280 sumptuous colour photographs. A 'Habitats and Hotspots' chapter details the island's various ecosystems and presents concise information on where best to see fascinating species, helping readers choose which parks and reserves to visit - from Masoala and Ranomafana to Ifaty and Berenty. An incredible 90% of Madagascar's plants and animals are unique to the world's oldest island. Accordingly, this guide also tells the story of how Madagascar came to be so different from the rest of the world, and why evolution took a different tangent to create such an extraordinary and unparalleled array of creatures. Read about Madagascar's remarkable chameleon diversity: half the world's species occur here, including the smallest and largest. And prepare to be astonished by an orchid with a ridiculously long nectary tube that prompted Charles Darwin to correctly predict that there would be a moth that had evolved an equally absurd 30-cm-long tongue to reach it. As a practical guide to help you plan your dream wildlife trip to this special destination, Bradt's Madagascar Wildlife is readable, user-friendly and inspiring; as a souvenir, it's unbeatable.Table of ContentsContents Introduction Technical terms, Classification Habitats and Wildlife Hotspots Rainforest Montagne d'Ambre, Marojejy, Masoala, Nosy Mangabe, Anjozorobe, Andasibe-Mantadia, Ranomafana Deciduous Forests/Seasonally Dry Forests Ankarana, Daraina area, Anjajavy, Sahamalaza-Îles Radama, Ankarafantsika, Tsingy de Bemaraha, Kirindy, Zombitse The Southern Region Andringitra, Isalo, Anja, Ifaty area, Tsimanampetsotse, Andohahela, Mandrare Valley: Berenty and Ifotaka Threatened Wetlands Betsiboka Delta, Lac Kinkony and the Mahavavy Delta Mammals Lemurs, Malagasy carnivores, Tenrecs, Rodents, Bats, Whales and whale-watching Birds Primitive parrots, The birds and the beaks (vangas), Rallying rarities, Rhapsody in blue Reptiles and Frogs Chameleon, Geckos, Other lizard, Snakes, Tortoises and turtles, Frogs Invertebrate In hiding, Out of hiding, Millipedes, Spiders, Other land invertebrate, Conservation issues Madagascar at Night From dusk to dawn Camouflage Safety matches Further Information Index

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Book Synopsis‘A profoundly satisfying read’ Financial TimesIn Field Notes from the Edge, the acclaimed writer of the Guardian's 'Country Diary', Paul Evans, takes us on a journey through the in-between spaces of Nature – such as strandlines, mudflats, cliff tops and caves – where one wilderness is on the verge of becoming another and all things are possible. Here, Evans searches out wildlife and plants to reveal a Nature that is inspiring yet intimidating; miraculous yet mundane; part sacred space, part wasteland. It is here that we tread the edge between a fear of Nature’s dangers and a love of Nature’s beauty.Combining a naturalist’s eye for observation with a poet’s ear for the lyrical, Field Notes from the Edge confirms Paul Evans's place among our leading nature writers today.Trade ReviewField Notes from the Edge's magic lies partly in the sheer quality of the prose, partly in Evans’ ability to loop together disparate threads[...] a profoundly satisfying read. -- Melissa Harrison * Financial Times *A wonderfully original book…Evans has a superb eye, a fine ear for all kinds of speech, a love of droll reality and a lyrical sense of all life...a joy. -- Richard Kerridge, author of Cold BloodThe best account I know of how it goes with our wilds...[a] deeply loveable book -- Tim Dee, author of Four FieldsThis lyrical prose makes the reader itch to get out into nature...Ultimately, Evans draws on the past to confront our present and ask what kind of future might be possible * Independent *Paul Evans’s important new book is the first indisputable classic of twenty-first-century nature writing…A masterpiece -- Jim Perrin, author of West

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Book SynopsisNiall Mac Coitir provides a comprehensive look at the folklore, legends and history of animals in Ireland, and describes their relations with people, being hunted for food, fur, sport, or as vermin, and their position today. A final section, inspired by stories of animal transformation, looks at twelve animals and how we can enrich our lives by visualising ourselves with their special qualities. This fascinating and beautifully illustrated compilation of folklore, legends and natural history will delight all with an interest in Ireland’s animals.Trade Review'Full of arcane and interesting facts' * Irish Examiner *

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Book SynopsisThe first photographic exploration of the wildlife of the different eco-systems of The Pennines, England's magnificent 268-mile range of hills which form our east-west watershed. From its chalk pavements to its acidic boglands: which insects, birds, animals and plants thrive there and why.

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Book SynopsisHow to take the best photos of the world's most iconic animals: tigers, elephants, orca, polar bears, jaguars and more. Optimal seasons, best tour companies, how to position yourself, tips and exciting first-hand accounts from expert photographer Barrett.

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Book SynopsisRainforests in Australia are found in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, the Northern Territory and Western Australia. This beautifully illustrated guide explores 51 wildlife watching sites in 22 bioregions around Australia, with over 500 colour photographs and 28 maps. Sites are generally open to the public, (some may require permits). Detailed descriptions of the key vertebrate and invertebrate species that can be found in the rainforests are given, to enable easy identification and as a tool for the reader to gain a deeper understanding of their habits and biology. Concise information on each site includes location descriptions, GPS coordinates, travel options and distances, relevant fees and permits, and an overview of some of the main tracks and trails.

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Book SynopsisJohn (Kay) Corner left home in 1960, aged 19. He would never see his father, E. J. H. Corner, again. Edred John Henry Corner was one of the most colourful and productive biologists and mycologists of the 20th century. His career began in 1929 as Assistant Director of the Straits Settlements Singapore Botanic Gardens, where he trained monkeys to collect specimens from the treetops of the rainforest, and published Wayside Trees of Malaya, a classic field guide interspersed with his delightful and idiosyncratic observations on plant life. He was key in the creation of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, a 163- hectare plot that contains more tree species than the whole of North America. When war came, he considered it his responsibilty to safeguard the scientific and cultural collections of Singapore during the Japanese Occupation, but was branded by some as a collaborator. Post-war, after heading the ambitious UNESCO Hylean Amazon Project, he returned to Cambridge University and was appointed Professor of Tropical Botany in 1965. There he propounded his theory that the Durian represented an ancestral type of angiosperm tree. He was elected a Fellow of The Royal Society, where he promoted the conservation of tropical forests and led expeditions to the British Solomon Islands and Mount Kinabalu. For the latter, he proposed Kinabalu Park which led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After 46 years, John Corner faces his estranged father in a suitcase marked: 'For Kay, wherever he might be.' The letters, pictures and other memorabilia that spill out led him to search for the father he hardly knew, resulting in an engaging and frank biography of an eminent scientist who put science above all, including his family.

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Book SynopsisThe word ‘aliens’ can be used in many ways, to invoke fear, dislike and fascination. For biologists it is used to indicate organisms that have been introduced by people to new territories. In the British Isles alien plants are common, conspicuous, pestiferous, beautiful, edible – and can be both useful and harmful.Trade Review‘One of the greatest New Naturalists of recent times … a major contribution to British natural history and popular science. A tremendous work on an important subject.’ British Wildlife Praise for the New Naturalist series: ‘Taken either individually or as a whole, they are one of the proudest achievements of modern publishing’ The Sunday Times ‘The series is an amazing achievement’ The Times Literary Supplement ‘The books are glorious to own’ Independent

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