Wildlife: mammals: general interest Books

Book SynopsisAdaptable, resilient, yet often overlooked, the goat - sometimes called the 'poor man's cow' - is found in nearly every part of the world where humans live. But our relationship with this strange yet familiar animal is oddly ambivalent. In Goat, Joy Hinson explores the reasons behind this unease, from our interaction with the endangered wild goat species of remote mountainous regions to the more familiar farmyard goat. This book traces the history of the animal, moving from their evolution through their domestication and global spread to the role of goats in the modern world. It considers in particular the harm done by the indiscriminate importing of tamed goats, which formed huge feral populations on the Galapagos Islands and Australia, for example. It considers the place of goat products in both the culinary and medical traditions of the world, from the time of Pliny the Elder who recommended pouring goat urine into the ear as a cure for neck pain, to the use of a bezoar stone as an antidote to poison. Goat also explores the connections between goats and wrongdoing and questions whether the goat really deserves its reputation for promiscuity and lasciviousness.Across the globe goats are part of our culture, art and tradition: from goat festivals in the U. S. to the Christmas Goat in Sweden. An exciting new addition to Reaktion's Animal series, Goat presents readers with this frequently neglected animal's fascinating history, life and role in today's world.

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Book SynopsisGuinea pigs are a popular pet, 'cute but dim' friends for those looking for an alternative to dogs and cats. They are increasingly bred for looks, shaped by humans in search of an ideal appearance. But it was guinea pigs that influenced humans from as early as 5000 bc, when their domestication began a long and fruitful relationship, influencing scientists such as William Harvey, and painters from Jan Brueghel to Beatrix Potter. Guinea pigs are more than simply pets: they have been at the centre of countless works of art and literature, inspiring children and adults alike. Guinea Pig is the first book of its kind totake an in-depth look at the fascinating history of guinea pig and human interaction. It examines guinea pigs' roles as pets alongside their roles as sacrificial offerings to Inca gods, a dish at the Last Supper, and the mascot of the airmen's Guinea Pig Club. The guinea pig is also famous as an experimental subject - the origin of the term now given to anyone who participates in a scientific study or experiment. Guinea Pig is the perfect companion for animal lovers, guinea pig owners and anyonewho is interested in the history of domesticated animals.

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Book SynopsisThis ground-breaking volume covers 42 species of terrestrial mammal – from the red deer to the pygmy shrew, from the pine marten to the hedgehog. The subject is introduced for the first time as a single overarching field of study, including guidance on survey methods, analysis of sound recordings and appropriate software. The book covers species in Britain, Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands. Containing over 300 figures in total, each species is considered in detail, with specific spectrogram examples. Furthermore, the book allows the reader access to a downloadable sound library containing more than 250 recordings. The authors have extensive experience and expertise in bioacoustics, including in the sound identification of mammals. They are also heavily involved in creating tools that use machine-learning algorithms to recognise mammal species from their calls. A real ear-opener, this will be the essential handbook for many years to come, serving ecological consultants, academics, conservationists, hobbyists and serious mammal recorders alike.Table of ContentsForeword Preface Acknowledgements About the Authors Preamble About the Sound Library 1. Introduction & Context 2. Survey Equipment & Field Techniques 3. Analysis of Acoustic Recordings 4. Overview of the Species Group-specific Chapters 5. Even-toed Ungulates – Deer & Wild Boar 6. Carnivores (Including Mustelids) 7. Lagomorphs – Hares & Rabbits 8. Rodents – Squirrels & Beavers 9. Rodents – Rats, Mice, Voles & Dormice 10. Insectivores – Hedgehogs, Moles & Shrews Appendix I – Glossary Appendix II – Case Studies References Index

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Book SynopsisSquirrel Nation is a history of Britain's two species of squirrel over the past two hundred years. The red squirrel, although rare, is among the most cherished of native species. Grey squirrels, by contrast, are one of the most frequently seen wild creatures in our gardens, parks, towns and countryside, and many Britons consider it to be a foreign interloper, introduced from North America in the late nineteenth century. By examining this animal's colonization of Britain, Peter Coates also explores timely issues of belonging, nationalism, citizenship and the defence of borders within Britain today. Ultimately, though people are swift to draw distinctions between British squirrels and squirrels in Britain, Squirrel Nation shows that Britain's two squirrel species have much more in common than at first appears.Trade Review'Possibly no other creature has attracted more emotion or controversy in the British nation than squirrels - at least since the rambunctious greys first arrived from America in 1876 to begin spreading beyond their welcome to foster rifts with the local reds. Yet it is precisely such squirrel antics that allow us to better understand our own human world, from childrens' storybooks to national anthems, from beer to royal families. If the odd grey squirrel became an "aggressive thug", maybe the red squirrel really did show a "stiff upper lip". Peter Coates's revealing tales of squirreldom have the very serious purpose of exposing the biases, compassions, wits and dreams of the British people themselves, who have been busy tussling with each other as they tussle with these cuddly creatures. By weaving in key insights about the biology of squirrels and their habitats, Squirrel Nation skilfully combines the best of natural history with cultural history. This is animal studies at its most accessible.' - Marcus Hall, Titular Professor, Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of ZurichTable of ContentsPREFACE 1 A TALE OF TWO SQUIRRELS 2 RED BEFORE GREY 3 GREY AND RED 4 AMERICAN HUSTLE, c. 1919-39 5 WAGING WAR ON THE 'GREY PERIL', c. 1939-73 6 WANTED: RED AND ALIVE 7 LEARNING TO LIVE WITH (AND TO LOVE) THE GREY REFERENCES SELECT BIBLIOGRAPHY ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS PHOTO ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS INDEX

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Book SynopsisOtters are charismatic and enchanting animals, with universal appeal, but most people will never see one in the wild. Leighton Moss is one of the best places in England to connect with these elusive creatures, although even here it is unusual to see one out of the water. More typical would be a tantalising glimpse of a distant head or tail disappearing into the reedbed. Yet in this unique and revealing book are mesmerising fi rst-hand accounts of many close and intimate encounters, collected over a decade of almost daily observations. With fascinating insight and attention to detail, patiently and quietly observing and recording, Elaine Prince follows the fortunes of eight families of otters as they mate, hunt, play and raise their young. The result is this engaging and invaluable volume, which contributes significantly to our knowledge and will delight anyone who loves otters and the natural world in general.

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Book SynopsisTake a walk on the wild side as you travel the world learning about the most awesome animals from jungle to frozen tundra without leaving your own sofa!Get up-close and personal with lemurs, lions, leopards and many more mammals! Whether you like your creatures cute, fierce or unusual. We've got them all here!

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Book SynopsisBats of the West Indies is a concise guide to the sixty-one bat species found across the Bahamas, the Greater Antilles, and the Lesser Antilles. Edited by Allen Kurta and Armando Rodríguez-Durán, this volume synthesizes the expertise of twenty-nine accomplished chiropterologists to present up-to-date information on the natural history, ecology, and behavior of these fascinating creatures.Bats represent an evolutionarily distinctive and ecologically significant part of biological diversity in the West Indies. Opening chapters introduce readers to the unique biology of bats, factors influencing their distribution, and conservation concerns. Family and species accounts detail anatomical traits, natural history, and conservation status. With over a one hundred illustrations, a glossary, and other useful identification tools, Bats of the West Indies is an authoritative yet accessible reference for bat enthusiasts and experts alike.

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Book SynopsisThis easy-to-use, compact book is the perfect pocket ID guide to mammals of the region. It covers - in surprising detail - some 120 mammals, from the smallest (bats, sengis and shrews) to the largest, such as elephant, lion and rhinoceros, as well as marine species, such as seals, dolphins and whales. Authoritative and colourfully illustrated, this guide offers concise information on key ID pointers, similar species, habitat, behaviour, diet, reproduction, longevity, calls, occurrence and measurements. Clear images of each animal, distribution maps, silhouettes indicating size relative to humans and illustrations of tracks and droppings make this a must-have book for tourists and nature-lovers alike.

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Book SynopsisSomewhere deep inside, you know what your gift, purpose, and mission are. Boyd Varty, a lion tracker and life coach, reveals how the wisdom from the ancient art of tracking can teach you how to recognize these essential ingredients in a meaningful life. Know how to navigate, don’t worry about the destination, and stay alert. These are just a few of the strategies that contribute to both successful lion tracking and a life of fulfillment. When we join Boyd Varty and his two friends tracking lions, we are immersed in the South African bush, and, although we learn some of the skills required for actual tracking, the takeaways are the strategies that can be applied to our everyday lives. Trackers learn how to use all of their senses to read the environment and enter into a state of “greater aliveness.” When we learn to find and follow our inner tracks, we learn to see what is deeply important to us. In the same way the trip in the cl

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Book SynopsisCovering 20 species recognized since 2002, this edition illustrates 462 known mammal species in the United States and Canada - each in beautiful color and accurate detail. With distribution maps, updated common and scientific names, and track and scat illustrations, this volume is useful for identifying North American mammals.Trade ReviewPraise for the first edition: "Will be welcomed by amateur naturalists and field biologists."--Science Praise for the first edition: "Makes all other field guides for mammals of the United States (exclusive of Hawaii) and Canada obsolete."--Jerry R. Choate, Journal of Mammalogy Praise for the first edition: "Sets new standards in field guides. A must for any biological traveller to the US or Canada, as well as for residents."--Adrian Barnett, New Scientist "Probably the easiest to use of the field guides to the mammals of North America."--Ian Palsen, Birdbooker Report "When it comes to field guides, Princeton University Press has long held a position of honor and respect among both professional and amateur naturalists for consistently providing exceptional levels of accuracy and attention to detail. With its new and updated illustrations, revised identification information, and the addition of twenty recently recognized species to its contents, the new second edition of Mammals of North America by Roland Kays and Don Wilson more than upholds this well-earned reputation."--John Riutta, The Well-read Naturalist "This is an excellent, handy field guide in the Princeton Field Guides series."--Robert Hoopes, Wildlife Activist "This is a perfect guide for naturalists of all ages and skill levels... [A] wonderfully compact and easy to use field guide."--Birdfreak.com "This is a truly indispensable guide for the experienced mammal watcher as well as a real treat to the novice... With 112 color plates covering 462 species of North American mammals, the guide is up-to-date, accurate, handsome and handy. If you only have one reference to your local furry friends, be sure this one is on your book shelf."--Cathy Taibbi, Wildlife Conservation Examiner, Examiner.com "Many people with a 'nose for nature' want to identify whatever they see and certainly for North America this would be the book to have in your pocket... This book is aimed at both professional mammalogists and amateur naturalists and would be great for travellers."--Helen Ashton, Reference ReviewsTable of ContentsAcknowledgments 6 Introduction 7 Species Included 8 What Is a Species? 8 What Information Is Included? 8 What Information Is Not Included? 10 Further Reading 10 Recommended Internet Resources 10 Using This Book to Identify a Mammal 11 Quick Mammal ID Chart 12 How Are Mammals Related? 16 Mammal Measurements and Anatomy 17 Species Plates 18 Glossary 240 Index 242

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Book SynopsisIntroduces the work of field scientists in Africa and explains their astonishing discoveries. This title explores the natural history and conservation status of African elephants and discusses the politics of ivory.Trade Review"A revelatory collection of photos and text on elephants... Peterson's awe and affection for the creatures is contagious." Starred Review Publishers Weekly "Revelatory text... Photographs (that) move from purely aesthetic to informative, depicting animals that are at once enigmatic, individual and iconic." Wildlife Conservation Magazine "A thing of beauty... High-quality photographs are joined with strong prose and a passion for the subject matter." Foreword "A bountiful pictorial feast for the eye." Deseret News "This gorgeous book... will convince you that the elephant is one of nature's greatest and most original works." Scientific American "Combines the extraordinary images of award-winning photographer Karl Ammann with the compelling writing of Dale Peterson." National Wildlife "A vivid portrait of elephants in the wild." ShutterbugTable of Contentsbeginnings texture colors perspectives fragments portraits behaviors associations passages Reflections on Elephants Photographer's Commentary Notes on the Photographs References Acknowledgments Index

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Book SynopsisCovers all the larger mammals of Tanzania, including marine mammals and some newly discovered species. This title features plates with side-by-side photographic comparisons of species that are easily confused, as well as species checklists for every national park.Trade Review"The information is up-to-date, accurate and inclusive. Whether you plan to visit Tanzania or a neighbouring country or simply like to learn something about mammals around the world, you'll like this one."--Geoff Carpentier, North Durham Nature Newsletter "[A] fantastic field guide... The compact, dense paperback is perfect for field use... There are also very helpful sections on where/how to watch mammals in Tanzania and on national parks and protected areas. This exemplary field guide is among the best this reviewer has seen; he would not leave for Tanzania without it."--Choice "[T]his new guide is an excellent addition to the literature and a 'must buy' for both the seasoned safari-goer and the first-timer."--Mark Gillies, Audley Traveller "This book is an absolute must for a person going on a safari in Tanzania. It is better than the other mammal guides I own or have seen. It will set you up on where to look. It will help you separate similar species and it will add wonder to your trip."--Roy John, Canadian Field-Naturalist "I would ... recommend this book as a valuable addition to your field guide collection, whether you are resident in the region or a visitor."--Nigel Hunter, SwaraTable of ContentsForeword 7 Preface 8 Acknowledgements 9 Conservation in Tanzania 10 How to use this book 12 Watching mammals in Tanzania 16 Tanzania's major vegetation types 20 Overview of mammalian families included in the book 24 THE SPECIES ACCOUNTS (see the following pages for a full list of species) 25 Terrestrial mammals AARDVARK: Tubulidentata 26 ELEPHANT-SHREWS: Macroscelidea28 HYRAXES: Hyracoidea 32 ELEPHANT: Proboscidea 38 PRIMATES: Primates 40 RODENTS: Rodentia 84 HARES AND RABBITS: Lagomorpha 88 HEDGEHOGS: Erinaceomorpha 92 PANGOLINS: Pholidota 94 CARNIVORES: Carnivora 100 ODD-TOED UNGULATES: Perissodactyla 168 EVEN-TOED UNGULATES: Artiodactyla 172 Marine mammals DUGONG: Sirenia 246 CETACEANS: Cetacea 248 CARNIVORES: Carnivora 261 Species comparison spreads 262 National Parks and major protected areas of Tanzania 269 Glossary 306 Photographic credits 309 Recommended further reading and references 312 Index 317

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Book SynopsisIn 1894, a lighthouse keeper named David Lyall arrived on Stephens Island off New Zealand with a cat named Tibbles. In just over a year, the Stephens Island Wren, a rare bird endemic to the island, was rendered extinct. Mounting scientific evidence confirms what many conservationists have suspected for some time--that in the United States alone, frTrade ReviewOne of Forbes.com's 10 Best Conservation and Environment Books of 2016 "We know that nature's theater bristles with industrious carnivores and omnivores--hawks that pluck cardinals right off a bird feeder, squirrels that grab eggs from crows' nests, and crows that grab babies from squirrels' nests. What makes free-ranging cats such an exceptionally dangerous threat to birds and other wildlife? The book describes a number of factors."--Natalie Angier, New York Review of Books "Peter Marra and Chris Santella base their case in the end on an appeal to the scientific evidence, which they set out as calmly as they can... What they fear most, however, is the inaction of ordinary, decent people who have just not grasped how quickly the tapestry of the world's ecology is unravelling before our eyes."--Jeremy Mynott, Times Literary Supplement "Marra and Santella thoughtfully examine the severe ecological damage caused by feral cats and outdoor pet cats. Highly readable... Cat lovers are presented in a sympathetic light throughout, making the book worth reading no matter a reader's position on free-ranging cats."--Publishers Weekly "This deeply researched overview by conservation scientist Peter Marra and writer Chris Santella interlaces discussions of feline domestication and avian conservation with the science of decline and of feline spillover diseases."--Nature "Marra and Santella make an impassioned plea for action in this compelling report on an often overlooked threat."--Scientific American "Cat Wars is a work of commanding reasonableness, with plenty of facts and figures and the testimonies of experts to support its unpalatable conclusions. There are some fascinating digressions, too, including sympathetic profiles of activists on both sides of the debate in the U.S."--The Australian "Cat Wars has a broader, more ecological focus, documenting the global impact of cats on wildlife, both by preying on animals and by transmitting diseases... Marra and Santella explore the solutions (keeping cats indoors, catios--an enclosed area outside the home--and killing strays)... This is an important and eye-opening book that clearly says: 'keep Tiddles a house cat.'"--Adrian Barnett, New Scientist "Cat Wars is valuable that it calls to attention a huge problem (set of problems, really) of which many people have, hitherto, been unaware--or ignored."--10,000 Birds Blog "Cat Wars, a brilliantly crafted book, describes numerous scientific studies that link bird disappearance to free-ranging feral domestic cats."--NSTA Recommends "TNR advocates and birders with outdoor cats are encouraged to read this book."--Birdwatcher's Digest "This necessary book provides the science-based case for removal of free-roaming house cats from our environment... If you are unfamiliar with these important issues, you should find this book a useful starting point."--Gerry Rising, Buffalo Spree "Cat Wars covers not only the data corroborating the problems posed by loose cats but also the people involved in the story. Marra and Santella interview researchers and activists on both sides. The readers learns of efforts to bridge differences between factions, so the massive mortality caused by cats can be effectively reduced. This is a well-written summary of a complicated problem that deserves great attention."--Joel Greenberg, BirdWatching Magazine "In this book, the authors provide a detailed examination of the threats to global biodiversity, the environment and public health posed by free-ranging cats. They describe many scientific studies that use population modelling, feline diseases and extinctions, and they share the history of how small, but extremely vocal, special interest groups successfully prevent any action being taken to deal with the vast population explosions of feral and free-roaming cats. Cat Wars examines this complex global issue and proposes scientifically sound real-world solutions to this problem. This painstakingly researched and readable book is a must-read for all pet owners (whether you have a cat or not) and is an iron-clad argument that the best thing for local wildlife, people and the cats themselves is for cat owners to keep their pets indoors, always."--Forbes.com, a "10 Best Conservation and Environment Books of 2016"Table of Contents1 The Obituary of the Stephens Island Wren 1 2 America's Dairy Land and Its Killing Fields 10 3 The Rise of Bird Lovers and Cat Lovers: The Perfect Storm 29 4 The Science of Decline 49 5 The Zombie Maker: Cats as Agents of Disease 75 6 Taking Aim at the Problem 95 7 Trap-Neuter-Return: A Palatable Solution That Is No Solution At All 121 8 A Landscape with Fewer Free-Ranging Cats: Better for Cats, Better for Birds, Better for People 144 9 What Kind of Nature Awaits? 168 Acknowledgments 179 Notes 181 References 185 Index 201

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Book SynopsisAn intimate view into the lives of this celebrated bear family that draws thousands to Yellowstone each year hoping for even a glimpse.The most famous population of grizzly bears in the world lives in the ecosystem that encompasses Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, and the most visible queen of all has been Jackson Hole Grizzly 399. During her long life, with cubs at her side, she has navigated the intersection between wilderness and people. Her harrowing journey has changed the way tens of millions of people around the globe think of both grizzlies and conservation.Over the past two decades, legendary nature photographer Thomas D. Mangelsen has been tracking Grizzly 399 and her cubs, amassing more than one million photos along the way. Together with conservation writer Todd Wilkinson, Mangelsen returns with a new, long-awaited volume that brings the importance of 399 and the plight of American grizzlies into focus in a way that will move your heart and

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Book SynopsisAfrica is home to an amazing array of animals, including the world’s most diverse assortment of large mammals. These include the world’s largest terrestrial mammal, the African elephant, alongside a host of hooved mammals such as hippopotamuses, giraffes, rhinoceroses, and zebras. African Ark: Mammals, Landscape and the Ecology of a Continent tells the story of where these mammals have come from and how they have interacted to create the richly varied landscape that makes up Africa as we know it today. It also highlights small mammals, such as rodents and bats, which are often overlooked by both naturalists and zoologists in favour of their larger cousins. African Ark explains the processes through which species and population groups are formed and how these fluctuate over time. It explores the impact of megafauna on the environment and the important roles they play in shaping the landscape. In this way, mammals such as elephants and rhinoceros support countless plant communities and the habitats of many smaller animals. The book brings in a human perspective as well as a conservation angle in its assessment of the interaction of African mammals with the people who live alongside them. African Ark is at once scientifically rigorous and an engaging read for anyone dedicated to the understanding of Africa and its wildlife.Table of Contents List of plates List of tables and figures Acknowledgements Foreword by Dr Duncan MacFadyen Prologue: Mammals and Landscapes – the Evolution of a Continent Chapter 1 A Continent of Plenty Chapter 2 The Species Conundrum Chapter 3 The History of Africa’s Mammals Chapter 4 Islands as Species Factories Chapter 5 Evolution on the African Mainland Chapter 6 Giant Mammals Shaping the Landscape Chapter 7 A Place for Every Species Chapter 8 Fluctuating Populations Chapter 9 The Human Factor Chapter 10 The Sinking Ark? Glossary References Recommended Reading Index

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Book SynopsisThe epic story of the buffalo in America, from prehistoric times to today—a moving and beautifully illustrated work of natural historyThe American buffalo—our nation’s official mammal—is an improbable, shaggy beast that has found itself at the center of many of our most mythic and sometimes heartbreaking tales. The largest land animals in the Western Hemisphere, they are survivors of a mass extinction that erased ancient species that were even larger. For nearly 10,000 years, they evolved alongside Native people who weaved them into every aspect of daily life; relied on them for food, clothing, and shelter; and revered them as equals.Newcomers to the continent found the buffalo fascinating at first, but in time they came to consider them a hindrance to a young nation’s expansion. And in the space of only a decade, they were slaughtered by the millions for their hides, with their carcasses left to rot on the prairies. Then, teetering

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Book SynopsisIn this enchanting book, self-confessed reindeer geek Tilly Smith leads the reader through the extraordinary natural history of the reindeer with charming anecdotes about her own Scottish herd.From their flat ‘clown-like’ hooves to their warm furry noses and majestic antlers, fall in love with nature’s most adaptable arctic mammal.

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Book SynopsisThe feral cousins of well-known domesticated breeds, wild horses live on the margins of human habitation. Wild Horses celebrates a wide variety of breeds from all around the world. Each photograph is accompanied by a caption with fascinating information about the characteristics of each breed.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"The authors take you on a magnificent journey alongside orcas, bringing these beautiful creatures to life. Numerous perspectives that intertwine science, traditional knowledge and personal experiences reveal how strongly we're interconnected with these majestic, intelligent neighbours that live in the Salish Sea. The emerging picture shows how orcas are an integral part of human existence and fuels my personal and professional passion to do everything possible to help them thrive. These stories seamlessly make the reader a part of the orcas' history and fate." Jay Ritchlin, Director General, BC and Western Canada, David Suzuki Foundation"In Spirits of the Coast ...orca experts, artists, storytellers, and Indigenous wisdom keepers issue an invitation to understand, celebrate, and come together to protect these marvelous marine mammals." Kristine Morris, Foreword Reviews"This book is the perfect blend of science, history, art, folklore and culture. Orcas are a huge part of life on the west coast of Canada and Vancouver Island. The image of the Orca is ever-present. This book is a wonderful trip into the world of these magnificent creatures and what they have meant to us over time." Charlotte Kinzie, Kinzie Things"The book, which is both a history lesson and a proposal for the future, is packed with thoughtful insights, historical perspectives and traditional First Nations stories. It also visually shines, with a wide range of beautiful artwork and photography. It's that inclusion of visual storytelling that makes this book so accessible and a great addition to any coffee table or bookshelf." Vancouver Sun"Its luminous, large-format pages offer everything from Haida storytelling to marine biology, all to show our too-often-ignored kinship with this astonishing animal." Brian Lynch, Georgia Straight"This book is not just recalling the history of relationship between humans and orcas but is laying the groundwork for deciding, each of us, what that relationship could look like in the future." Amy Reiswig, Focus on Victoria"Anyone looking for an introduction to the history, science and cultural significance of the orca could do no better than to start here." Daniel Francis, Ormsby Review"A magnificent journey alongside orcas, bringing these beautiful creatures to life." -- Jay Ritchlin, David Suzuki Foundation

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Book SynopsisThere are more than 1,300 species of bats - or almost a quarter of the world's mammal species. But before you shrink in fear from these furry "creatures of the night," consider the bat's fundamental role in our ecosystem. A single brown bat can eat several thousand insects in a night. This book presents these nocturnal creatures in a new light.

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive and heavily illustrated guide to every species of British wildlife, this book is the definitive photographic reference guide for nature enthusiasts.Collins Complete Guide to British Wildlife allows everyone to identify the wildlife found in Britain and Ireland. The book is illustrated with beautiful photographs throughout, featuring the mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates you are most likely to see, as well as all the common plants.By only covering Britain and Ireland, fewer species are included than in many broader European guides, making it quicker and easier for the reader to accurately identify what they have found.This is the essential photographic guide to the wildlife of Britain and Ireland.Trade Review'Wonderfully descriptive photographs'BBC Wildlife

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Book SynopsisMammals of Africa (MoA) is a series of six volumes which describes, in detail, every currently recognized species of African land mammal. This is the first time that such extensive coverage has ever been attempted, and the volumes incorporate the very latest information and detailed discussion of the morphology, distribution, biology and evolution (including reference to fossil and molecular data) of Africa''s mammals. With 1,160 species and 16 orders, Africa has the greatest diversity and abundance of mammals in the world. The reasons for this and the mechanisms behind their evolution are given special attention in the series.Each volume follows the same format, with detailed profiles of every species and higher taxa. The series includes some 660 colour illustrations by Jonathan Kingdon and his many drawings highlight details of morphology and behaviour of the species concerned. Diagrams, schematic details and line drawings of skulls and jaws are by Jonathan Kingdon and Meredit

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Book SynopsisA DAILY MAIL BOOK OF THE WEEK: 'particularly enjoyable''Somehow laugh-out-loud funny - passionate, warm and full of fascinating insights into the eccentric world of the field naturalist.' - Isabella Tree, author of WildingWater voles are small, brownish, bewhiskered and charming. Made famous by 'Ratty' in The Wind in the Willows, once they were a ubiquitous part of our waterways. They were a totem of our rivers. Now, however, they are nearly gone. This is their story, and the story of a conservationist with a wild hope: that he could bring them back.Tom Moorhouse spent eleven years beside rivers, fens, canals, lakes and streams, researching British wildlife. Quite a lot of it tried to bite him. He studied four main species - two native and endangered, two invasive and endangering - beginning with water voles. He wanted to solve their conservation problems. He wanted to put things right.This book is about whether it worked, and what he learnt - and about what those lessons mean, not just for water voles but for all the world's wildlife. It is a book for anyone who has watched ripples spread on lazy waters, and wondered what moves beneath. Or who has waited in quiet hope for a rustle in the reeds, the munch of a stem, or the patter of unseen paws.Praise for Tom Moorhouse:'The pages of this book are shot through with quicksilver light reflected from wet fur - not a lament for our rivers but a chorus of hope for their future.' - Raynor Winn, author of The Salt Path'Beautiful and important. Tom's book is extraordinary in its gentle curiosity and sympathy for his subjects. I love this book.' - Sir Tim Smit KBE, Executive Vice-Chairman and Co-founder of the Eden Project'Terrific. Lightly but beautifully written. Very moving. Water voles are adorable little beasts. They are also tough, randy and stroppy, as Tom Moorhouse makes clear in this wry, amusing account of the often bloody, painful and frustrating business of conservation fieldwork. 'I hold stubbornly to optimism,' he declares, and his Elegy for a River demands that we do the same.' - Christopher Somerville, walking correspondent for The Times and author of The January Man

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Book SynopsisSouth Africa’s Fynbos Biome, which spans the country’s Western and Eastern Cape provinces, is one of the richest floras in the world. In addition to its spectacular botanical diversity, the region is also famous for its remarkable variety of fauna, with some species occurring nowhere else – from the tiny Micro Frog to the brightly coloured Orange-breasted Sunbird and the large, strikingly marked Bontebok. The first of its kind, this concise field guide covers more than 400 species in four animal groups: mammals, birds, reptiles and frogs. The species accounts include key identification features and are paired with full-colour photographs and distribution maps. This guide encompasses popular tourist destinations such as the Cape Peninsula, the Kogelberg, the Cederberg, the Agulhas Plain, the West Coast and Baviaanskloof. Sales points: First guide to focus on Fynbos wildlife. Ideal for visitors, hikers, botanists, conservationists and anyone with an interest in the region’s natural history. Written by conservationists with extensive field experience. Supported by high-quality colour photographs.

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