Description
Book SynopsisThis groundbreaking new guide is an authoritative field reference for these two groups of animals.The taxonomy and systematics of European reptiles and amphibians have changed a lot in recent years, yet there is no modern, up-to-date field guide available that comprehensively covers all the species. The last illustrated field guide to European reptiles and amphibians was first published 38 years ago, and remains outdated despite occasional reprints and new editions. This major new field guide addresses this deficiency. A total of 219 species are covered in detail, with a focus on identification and geographical variation; species texts also cover distribution, habitat and behaviour. Superb colour illustrations by talented artist Ilian Velikov depict every species and all major variations, and colour photographs are also included for most species.The book includes over 370 colour artworks and 200 colour photographs, 155 accurate and up-to-date distribution maps, and easy-to-use k
Trade ReviewThis new, well-written, superbly illustrated book sets the new standard ... buy it to take to Europe alongside your bird, butterfly and wildflower guides. -- Howard Inns * British Wildlife *
Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgements About this book Diversity of European amphibians and reptiles and their origin Natural species composition in Europe Alien species Threats and conservation How to watch amphibians and reptiles Where to watch amphibians and reptiles Amphibian eggs and larvae Amphibian eggs Newt and salamander larvae Frog and toad larvae Checklist of European amphibians and reptiles
Species accounts True Toads
(Bufonidae) Tree Frogs
(Hylidae) True Frogs (Ranidae) Brown Frogs
Rana species Water Frogs
Pelophylax species REPTILES
(REPTILIA) Turtles, Tortoises and Terrapins
(Testudines) Tortoises
(Testudinidae) Terrapins
(Emydidae and
Geoemydidae) Sea Turtles
(Cheloniidae and
Dermochelyidae) Lizards
(Sauria) Agamas
(Agamidae) Chameleons
(Chamaeleonidae) Geckos
(Gekkonidae, Sphaerodactylidae, Phyllodactylidae) True Lizards
(Lacertidae) Green
Lacertas Small
Lacertas Skinks
(Scincidae) Slow Worms
(Anguidae) Worm Lizards
(Amphisbaenia) Snakes
(Serpentes) Blind Snakes
(Typhlopidae) Sand Boas
(Erycidae) Colubrids
(Colubridae) Water Snakes
(Natricidae) African Sand Snakes
(Psammophiidae) Vipers
(Viperidae) Glossary Snakebite emergency Selected references and further reading Photographic credits Index
