Description
Book SynopsisAmphibians and reptiles is a comprehensive guide to the native and non-native species of amphibian and reptile found in the British Isles. Professor Trevor Beebee covers the biology, ecology, conservation and identification of the British herpetofauna, and provides keys for the identification of adult and immature newts and newt eggs, larvae and metamorphs; frog and toad adults and metamorphs, spawn and larvae; adult and hatchling limbed lizards; and adult snakes. Distribution maps are included for all species, and the book is illustrated throughout with colour photographs and figures.
The goal of this book is to encourage readers to develop their own ecological studies, to this end, the author summarises the current state of knowledge of reptile and amphibian biology, including behaviour, breeding, habitat selection, migration and development, and offers ideas for research projects that could be undertaken to further what is known. A chapter is devoted to the practicalities of professional work with amphibians and reptiles, including licensing requirements. Research techniques, including survey methods such as night searches for newts and bottle trapping, are discussed in detail, and consideration is given to methods of data analysis.
Author royalties from this book have been donated to Amphibian and Reptile Conservation.
Trade ReviewIt's always nice when a book is published that enthuses you because it is so inspiring. [...] A number of things struck me as positive. First is that the author convincingly shows how research on captive animals contributes to our knowledge. [...] Second, a lot of attention is paid to the role of schools in the protection of amphibians and reptiles [...] Third, and most inspiring to me, is that the author gives many ideas for future research. [Translation from Dutch review]
-- Sergé Bogaerts * RAVON 49 September 2013 15(3) *
Table of Contents1 Introduction
2 Basic biology
3 Ecology and Conservation
4 Surveying and monitoring
5 Working with amphibians
6 Working with reptiles
7 How schools can help
8 Identifying species found in Britain
Key I Adult and immature newts
Key II Newt eggs, larvae and metamorphs
Key III Frogs and toads (adults and metamorphs)
Key IV Frog and toad spawn
Key V Frog and toad larvae
Key V Adult and hatchling limbed lizards
Key VI Adult snakes
Distribution maps
9 Working with amphibians and reptiles: some basic essentials
10 Useful addresses and links
References
Index
