Search results for ""john beaufoy publishing ltd""

A Photographic Guide to the Wildlife of India is a wide ranging overview of the subcontinent's wildlife, describing and illustrating over 984 species from all 26 states, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Indian region is exceptionally rich in wildlife due to its wide variety of habitats and climates. Altitude ranges from sea level to the peaks of the Himalaya; rainfall from its lowest in the Rajasthan desert to Cherapunji in Meghalaya, one of the wettest places in the world. This diversity supports a huge range of charismatic species from the iconic Bengal Tiger to Clouded Leopards, crocodiles to King Cobras, hornbills to eagles. The guide begins with an overview of India's climate and geography, its wildlife habitats, threats to wildlife, extreme rarities and how to enjoy the forests. The main part of the book contains concise species descriptions of 678 birds, 114 mammals, 72 butterflies and other insects, 66 reptiles, and 54 trees and flowers; each one accompanied by a photograph. The book concludes with a section on wildlife watching in the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries which present the best chance of seeing many of these species described.

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William Yarrell (1784-1856) was an influential naturalist at a time when natural history was becoming an important factor in 19th century society. He wrote two notable books: A History of British Fishes and A History of British Birds, that were being quoted as the authorities well into the next century and are still admired today, especially for their delightful wood engravings. He was a member and sometime Treasurer, Secretary and Vice-President of the Zoological, Linnean and Entomological Societies. He was known to, and greatly admired by, the leading naturalists; Charles Darwin sought Yarrell's advice on several occasions. In addition to his key role as an organiser and disseminator of knowledge about the British fish and bird fauna, Yarrell also conducted significant original scientific research, being perhaps best known as the first person to recognise Bewick's Swan as a separate species from the Whooper Swan, naming it Cygnus bewickii after his illustrious ornithological predecessor. Yarrell owned the London newsagency, Jones and Yarrell, with his partner, Edward Jones, from 1803 until 1850. They held a royal warrant and supplied the Houses of Parliament as well as royalty with newspapers. Besides his work on natural history and running the newsagency, he was a popular figure with his friends, renowned for the good food and wine served at his convivial dinner parties, and he was a prolific correspondent.

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This easy-to-use identification guide to 280 tree species most commonly seen in Britain and northern Europe is perfect for amateur naturalists. High quality photographs from Britain’s top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include common and scientific name, height, distribution and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers the different habitats, a definition of what is a tree and how to identify the species, as well as a glossary. Naturalist’s Guide series: A series of photographic wildlife identification guides. Each title features 280 species that a keen amateur might expect to see in the field or garden. High quality photographs are accompanied by full species descriptions, giving identifying features, as well as details of size, habits, habitats and distribution. Each title is written by an acknowledged expert in the subject with photographs largely supplied by Paul Sterry, a biologist whose interest in natural history spans more than 50 years

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Alfred Russel Wallace's The Malay Archipelago is a work of astounding breadth and originality that chronicles the British naturalist's scientific exploration of Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and New Guinea between 1854 and 1862. An intrepid explorer who earned his living by collecting bird skins, Wallace also catalogued the vast number of plant and animal species that inhabit this unique geographical area. In addition, he includes numerous observations on the people, their languages, and ways of living and social organization, as well as geological insights into the nature and activity of volcanoes and the destructive force of nature. Colourful personal anecdotes based on experiences during his travels also pepper the text. First published in 1869, The Malay Archipelago provided some of the initial evidence for the modern theory of evolution. Discursive, captivating, occasionally offensive, but always wonderfully descriptive, it remains one of the most extensive works of natural history ever compiled. The Earl of Cranbrook is an expert in the environmental biology of the Malaysian region, and has a special interest in the life and career of Alfred Russel Wallace. Stanfords Travel Classics feature some of the finest historical travel writing in the English language, with authors hailing from both sides of the Atlantic. Every title has been reset in a contemporary typeface to create a series that every lover of fine travel literature will want to collect and keep.

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With a coastline dotted with beautiful beaches, breath-taking scenery, UNESCO-listed world heritage sites, dynamic cities and species-rich national parks, this long, narrow country offers an outstanding range of opportunities for visitors from Hanoi, the capital city, in the north to Ho Chi Minh City, the biggest city, in the south. The delicious cuisine, renowned for its freshness and bold flavours, can be sampled especially in its street-food dishes wherever you are. For cultural visits, the colonial heritage of cities such as Hoi An or Hué is richly rewarding; for wildlife enthusiasts there are the jungles, caves and monsoon forests to explore and for a less energetic appreciation of the stunning countryside, there are cruises around the visual drama of Ha Long Bay. Enchanting Vietnam is the perfect introduction to this lively, vibrant and colourful country with its vast cultural diversity and abundance of natural and leisure time attractions

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A fully comprehensive field guide to Malaysia's 829 bird species, including Sabah and Sarawak. The species are clearly illustrated in over 170 plates, with many variants. The main identifying features of each species are described and key facts cover size, voice, range and status, habitat, specific country and breeding.

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Enchanting Thailand is a vivid and colourful introduction to all the major tourist sights and places of interest throughout the country, from the cosmopolitan metropolis of Bangkok to fascinating but little visited regions in the north-east.

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The World's Great Rail Journeys describes over 50 of the world's most exciting, unusual and exotic railway journeys, including North America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australasia, updated to include photographs of new trains travelling on the same spectacular routes. Each journey is accompanied by a route map and is described in terms of the technical challenges of the construction of the track as well as the stunning views to be seen while travelling on the trains. One of the most famous, the Orient Express route from Paris to Istanbul, is historical and no longer possible as a single journey but full details of how to trace the route today accompany the description of the original concept. Other journeys are included because of the exciting countryside they pass through, such as the spectacular railways in the Canadian Rockies, or the challenging nature of the route, such as India's Darjeeling Himalayan Railways, or the Indian Pacific which runs across Australia from Perth to Sydney. The World's Great Rail Journeys is perfect for all railway enthusiasts, whether actual or armchair travellers.

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This easy-to-use identification guide to 280 wildlife species most commonly seen in the gardens of Britain and northern Europe is perfect for amateur naturalists. High quality photographs from Britain’s top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include common and scientific name, size, distribution and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers the different habitats and useful advice on how to attract wildlife to your garden, as well as a glossary. Naturalist’s Guide series: A series of photographic wildlife identification guides. Each title features 280 species that a keen amateur might expect to see in the field or garden. High quality photographs are accompanied by full species descriptions, giving identifying features, as well as details of size, habits, habitats and distribution. Each title is written by an acknowledged expert in the subject with photographs largely supplied by Paul Sterry, a biologist whose interest in natural history spans more than 50 years

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Great Railway Journeys in Europe features 34 fascinating journeys in North-West, Nordic, Central, Southern and South-East Europe, ranging from cross-continental adventures to short, nostalgic excursions by steam train. There are journeys through stunning scenery, such as the trip on The Rauma Line in Norway; tracks that defy the terrain, such as the routes through the Swiss Alps, and journeys that link famed cities in France, Spain, Austria and Italy. Photographs illustrate the spectacular routes, remarkable locomotives and unique station architecture. For each journey, details cover technical information on the track, descriptions of the scenery the trains pass through, notable facts about the destinations and factual information on ticketing. Each journey is plotted on a route map. Whether you are planning a special trip by train or delighting in discovering Europe's best railway journeys from the comfort of your armchair, this book is an informative and entertaining read.

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A Naturalist's Guide to the Frogs of Australia is an introductory photographic guide to the 247 species and 9 subspecies of frog most commonly seen in Australia, and is perfect for resident and visitor alike. High quality photographs from Australia's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, size, distribution, habits and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers the geography and climate of Australia, types of habitat, and details of orders and families. The second edition includes eight new species, updated taxonomy and numerous new photographs. Also included is an up-to-date checklist of all of the frogs of Australia encompassing, for each species, its common and scientific name, its presence in a particular state or territory and its global IUCN status as at 2018.

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The 100 Best Birdwatching Sites in Australia contains the author's personal selection of 100 of the best birdwatching sites in all states, territories and islands of Australia. The sites are chosen for the large number of species or the large number of special birds to be found in each one. In some cases, the sites are quite specific, such as Hasties Swamp, some are huge (Lakefield National Park), some are lengthy (the Strzelecki Track) and some cover a whole district, such as Katherine. Access details of sites have been updated where relevant for the 3rd edition. Sue Taylor's engaging narrative describes the efforts she goes to in search of particular species. For each site she covers the type of habitat, which special species may be found there and when is the best time to visit. She lists four birds to look out for. Photographs show the site and two of the species that inhabit it whether as residents or as seasonal visitors.

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A Naturalist's Guide to the Insects of Australia is an easy-to-use introductory photographic identification guide to 292 species of insect commonly seen in Australia. The 2nd edition includes updated taxonomy and an extensive collection of new images of the species covered. High quality photographs from Australia's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, size, distribution, habitat and habits. The user-friendly introduction covers modern Australian insects, non-insect hexapods and life cycles. Also included is an up-to-date checklist of the insect families of Australia listing the number of genera and species in each family.

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Rainforests 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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A Naturalist's Guide to the Birds of the Middle East is a compact, incisive photographic identification guide to 280 bird species found in the Middle East, including Egypt, and the countries of the Levant and the Arabian Peninsula. The book shows the region's most commonly seen, unique and endemic species, and is perfect for resident and visitor alike. High quality photographs from the region's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, size, distribution, habits and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers biogeography, migration, bird topography and a glossary. Also included is an all-important checklist of all of the birds of Egypt and the Middle East encompassing, for each species, its common and scientific name as well as its status in each country and its global IUCN status.

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This fully illustrated history is divided geographically according to the sequence of succeeding Thai kingdoms. Each section follows a historical chronology, covering accounts of major events during each reign, with an assessment of the character of individual kings and their particular achievements, together with those of other major players. This record of events is blended with descriptive passages about monuments surviving today that are relevant to and help illuminate the history. Political development is thus paralleled by Thailand's cultural development, especially in relation to the religious and royal architecture. Thailand's historical progression has been complex, and although the foundations of national identity - religion and monarchy in particular - were established in the earliest days of statehood dating back to the 13th century, it is only in comparatively recent times that all elements - social, political, cultural and linguistic - have cohered into what is recognizable today as Thai and Thailand. By linking the text to existing landmarks the history provides both an enjoyable read in its own right and a fascinating guide to the monuments and buildings that visitors can see on their travels around the country.

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Beginning with a definition of who the people of The Philippines are, this fully illustrated history then tracks back to describe the prehistory of the country through to 1500 AD. The next two chapters chart the colonial experiences under Spain (1500–1896), then the first republic and the subsequent defeat by the United States (1860–1910). Following this are chapters on the Japanese occupation and the third republic (1910–1972). Next comes a description of the Marcos dictatorship and its consequences (1970–1986) and the book ends with a look at the fifth republic and the future of the country. Ray Canoy’s authoritative text describes the history of The Philippines from pre-history to the present day

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This photographic identification guide to the 280 native and introduced species of garden flower most commonly seen in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka is perfect for resident and visitor alike. High quality photographs from India’s top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, identifying features and habitats. The user-friendly introduction covers geography and climate, flower habitats and flower identification

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India has a wide diversity of birdlife, comprising 1,211 species, of which 75 are endemic, making the country a richly rewarding destination for birdwatchers. This fully illustrated guide describes the 125 best sites for viewing both common and rare species throughout the 29 states of the sub-continent. Alongside a map of each area, detailed descriptions of each site cover the type of terrain and specific spots at which certain species are likely to be encountered. Other sections cover access and possible accommodation, as well as important indicators to conservation issues. A fact file for each site lists the nearest town; the type of habitat; key lowland, montane and winter species to be seen as well as other wildlife specialities, and the best time to visit.

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This fully illustrated guide describes over 60 of the best sites for viewing both common and rare species. Organised by state, detailed descriptions of each site cover the type of terrain and specific spots at which certain species are likely to be encountered. A fact file for each site details how to get there; facilities; nearby services and accommodation. Key species for each site are also listed.

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Written by experts with extensive local knowledge, each volume features 100 –280 species that the amateur naturalist might expect to see in the field, with high quality photographs accompanied by detailed species descriptions that include common name, scientific name, size, distribution, habits and habitat. Also included is an all-important checklist of all of the species of the region encompassing for each one its common and scientific name, and IUCN status.

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A Photographic Field Guide to the Dragonflies and Damselflies of Singapore is a fully comprehensive field guide to the 136 species of dragonfly and damselfly found in Singapore. With stunning, close-up photographs from the authors, each species is illustrated with multiple variants. The general introduction provides a comprehensive overview of dragonfly anatomy, feeding habits, courtship and reproduction; also dragonfly research and conservation in Singapore, plus the best places for dragonfly watching in Singapore. Detailed coverage of every species includes key features for field identification; telling apart similar species; habitat and habits; presence in Singapore; etymology; wider distribution; national and IUCN conservation statuses; and larval features. Additionally, a QR code links to detailed larvae images from the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum website. The final section gives a checklist of the country status and conservation status of all of Singapore's odonates.

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This easy-to-use identification guide to the 280 reptile species most commonly seen in Australia is perfect for resident and visitor alike. High quality photographs from Australia's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, size, distribution, habits and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers the threats to reptiles, types of habitat, anatomy of reptiles, and details of orders and families. Also included is an all-important checklist of all of the reptiles of Australia encompassing, for each species, its common and scientific name, and its global IUCN status.

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This easy-to-use identification guide to the 280 tree and shrub species most commonly seen in India is perfect for resident and visitor alike.High quality photographs from India's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, size, distribution and habitat.The user-friendly introduction covers geography and climate, vegetation, opportunities for naturalists and the main sites for viewing the listed species.Also included is an all-important checklist of all of the trees and shrubs of India encompassing, for each species, its common and scientific name, its status in each state as well as its global IUCN status as at 2015.

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This easy-to-use identification guide to the 280 bird species most commonly seen in Southeast China is perfect for resident and visitor alike. High quality photographs from the region's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions which include nomenclature, size, distribution, habits and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers geography and climate, vegetation, opportunities for naturalists and the main sites for viewing the listed species. Also included is an all-important checklist of all of the birds of Southeast China encompassing, for each species, its common and scientific name, IUCN status as at 2011.

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These two southernmost islands in the Caribbean are packed with attractions catering to all kinds of visitor, whether an ecotourist, a history buff, a partygoer, an activity seeker or a beach lover. The carnival in Port of Spain, Trinidad, is an explosion of music, fun and dance to which everyone is invited but the town also has its Magnificent Seven buildings - colonial-style houses built during Spanish and British rule in the 17th and 18th centuries. Tobago's history can be viewed at Fort King George, an impressively preserved British outpost. Both islands are a birdwatcher's dream with rainforests, mangrove swamps and nature reserves giving shelter to a wide range of species. For the adventurous visitor, there are hiking and cycling trails throughout the islands taking in spectacular waterfalls and deserted bays and for divers, there are world-class sites and abundant marine life. Added to this the delicious street food and a laid-back lifestyle make both islands an unbeatable holiday destination. Enchanting Trinidad & Tobago provides a colourful introduction in words and photographs to these exciting islands.

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A photographic identification guide to the reef fishes of Seychelles aimed at divers, snorkelers, scientists, students and general fish enthusiasts. To date nearly 900 species of fish have been recorded from coral reefs and their associated habitats within Seychelles Exclusive Economic Zone. With over 550 species and almost 700 photographs all captured in situ, this book represents the most comprehensive field guide to the reef fishes of Seychelles currently available. The general introduction discusses Seychelles' geography and coral reefs, followed by the taxonomy, classification and nomenclature of the species, fish diversity in Seychelles, endemic and endangered fishes, and fish anatomy. The species descriptions cover identifying features, size, biology and distribution.

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A photographic identification guide to 125 tree species most commonly seen in Sri Lanka, perfect for resident and visitor alike. Over 350 high quality photographs from Sri Lanka’s top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, size, distribution and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers geography and climate, the different habitats and tree structure.

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From Santiago de Compostela in the north-west to Granada in the south-east via Madrid in the centre, Enchanting Spain reveals the fascinating breadth and depth of this exuberant country. The Moorish Alhambra, Toledo's Jewish quarter, the Roman amphitheatre at Merida and Barcelona's Sagrada Familia, the famously unfinished cathedral, each show a different aspect of Spain's complex history, now intermingled with fabulously contemporary museums and art centres. The major towns sparkle with life, which visitors can sharethrough the vibrant night scene, the delicious food and wine, the flamenco performances and the abundant festivals. The landscape is diverse and dramatic, whether you are discovering the sun-drenched beaches of Andalucia, hiking in the Picos de Europa or taking a trip down the Guadalquivir River.Enchanting Spain is a portrait in words and images of both the familiar and the unexpected pleasures of this vibrant country.

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A Field Guide to the Birds of Singapore is a fully comprehensive field guide to the 422 bird species of Singapore, as well as ‘escapees’ not formally accepted as ‘wild’ birds. The species are clearly illustrated in over 100 plates, with many variants. The main identifying features of each species are described and key facts cover size, voice, range and status, habitat and breeding. The book also includes information on taxonomy and nomenclature, observing birds, climate, habitats, the breeding cycle, migration and conservation as well as 25 key birdwatching sites with maps.

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Enchanting Bangkok introduces in words and vivid photographs all of Bangkok's delights by night and by day providing the perfect introduction to and souvenir of a visit to the city.

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A Photographic Field Guide to the Birds of Canberra and the High Country is a fully comprehensive field guide to the 322 bird species found in the Australian High Country, and includes all common, rare and vagrant species. With photographs from the author and the region's other top-quality nature photographers, each species is illustrated with many variants. The guide is focused on field use to help beginners and experts identify species. Previously published as A Photographic Field Guide to the Birds of the Australian High Country (John Beaufoy Publishing, 2017). For each species the common and scientific names are listed as well as local variations. The main identifying features of each species are described and key facts cover size, habits, habitat, breeding, distribution, voice and status in the region. Distribution maps provide an at-a-glance view of where the birds can be found. The book also includes information on climate and topography, types of habitat, orders and families, residents, migrants, vagrants and highly scarce migrants, topography and the key birdwatching sites. The checklist provides complete information on the local status of each species.

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A Naturalist's Guide to the Birds of India is an introductory photographic identification guide to 280 bird species and 100 closely related species most commonly seen in India. Aimed at first-time birders, it is perfect for resident and visitor alike. High quality photographs from one of India's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, size, distribution, habits and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers geography and climate, vegetation, opportunities for naturalists and the main sites for viewing the listed species. This new 2nd edition includes updated taxonomy and over 300 new images. Also included is an all-important checklist of all of the birds of India encompassing, for each species, its common and scientific name as well as its vernacular name, its status in each state as well as its global IUCN status.

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A Naturalist's Guide to the Reptiles & Amphibians of New Zealand is an introductory photographic identification guide to all 141 reptile and amphibian species of New Zealand. High-quality photographs from the author and the country's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, size, distribution, habits and habitats, and conservation information. The user-friendly introduction covers geography and climate, habitats, reptiles and amphibian identification and a glossary. Also included is an all-important checklist of all of the herpetofauna of New Zealand encompassing, for each species, its risk category and New Zealand conservation status.

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Great Railway Journeys in Asia showcases 34 of the best rail journeys in South, Southeast and North Asia. The journeys chosen by David Bowden, an avid rail traveller, range from quirky trains used as essential travel for locals, such as the North Borneo Railway, to trains on which passengers can experience 5 star luxury as they travel through stunning scenery, as, for example, the opulence of India's Palace on Wheels. Other journeys are chosen for the marvel of their engineering, Thailand's Death Railway for instance, features the 300 metre-long Tham Krasae trestle bridge or for the length of a country that they traverse, like the Trans-Mongolian Railway that connects Beijing with Moscow via vast plains and steppes. Some are slow trains and some travel at super-high speeds. For each journey, there is historical, technical and practical information as well as interesting details on the places accessible from the main stations. Each is accompanied by a route map. Whether you are planning a special trip by train or delighting in discovering Asia's best railway journeys from the comfort of your armchair, this book is an informative and entertaining read.

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A Naturalist's Guide to the Mammals of India is an introductory, easy-to-use identification guide to 200 mammal species most commonly seen in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Compact and fact-filled, it is perfect for resident and visitor alike. This new 2nd edition includes updated taxonomy and many new images. High quality photographs from India's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, size, distribution, habits and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers the early study of mammals in India, types of habitat, and details of orders and families. Also included is an up-to-date checklist of all of the mammals of India encompassing, for each species, its common and scientific name, and its global IUCN status.

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A photographic identification guide to 150 species of garden insect most commonly found in Britain and North-West Europe. Packed with information, written with huge enthusiasm and illustrated with incredible close-up photos, this guide shines a spotlight on the insects in your garden. The introduction covers how to attract insects to your garden, the insect lover's year, a description of the parts of an insect and details of the insect orders described. For each species there is a keenly observed description to help you identify even the smallest creature, as well as one or two photographs labelled with distinguishing features. There are details of its life cycle from egg to adult, a calendar showing the time of year when the adult can be seen and star facts that give further proof of insects' fascinating lives.

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The plant world of the Mediterranean region is remarkable for its great diversity of species and forms. This user-friendly pocket nature guide is organized by colour to help identify over 500 commonly seen flowers, shrubs, trees, grasses and ferns. Detailed descriptions give the common and scientific names as well as the flowering time. They also provide information on characteristic features, occurrence and distribution.As an extra at-a-glance aid over 45 eye-catching ornamental plants are featured on the flaps.The book covers every country with a Mediterranean coastline, including France, Spain, Italy, Croatia, Albania, Greece, Turkey, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, Tunisia, Libya, Algeria and Morocco

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This fully revised and updated identification guide to 280 bird species, including all resident and regular migratory species, occurring in Singapore is perfect for resident and visitor alike. High quality photographs from Singapore's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include common and scientific plus Chinese and Malay names, size, distribution, habits and habitat. The user-friendly introductioncovers geography and climate, vegetation, opportunities for naturalists and the main sites for viewing the listed species. Also included is an all-important checklist of all of the birds of Singapore encompassing, for each species, its common and scientific name, and IUCN status as at 2017.

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A pocket-sized travel guide aimed at first-time travellers with an emphasis on the natural history of the destination. In three parts, the first section describes the major highlights and the natural environment, with details on where and how to explore nature and the wildlife of the country. The second section looks at significant locations with information for each on cultural sites, interesting architecture, local food and customs, plants and animals, activities, and shopping opportunities. The final section contains all of the practical information needed both before and during a stay. Blue Skies Travel Guides have everything you need to help you make the most of your trip whether for a family holiday, an activity trip, a birdwatching tour or a relaxing beach vacation.

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Charles Darwin joined HMS Beagle when he was just 22 at the request of Captain FitzRoy, who wanted to have a naturalist on board. The ship set sail from Plymouth Sound on 27 December 1831 and returned nearly five years later on 2 October 1836. The journey took Darwin from the Cape de Verde Islands to Mauritius, visiting locations as varied as Brazil, Tierra del Fuego, the Galapagos archipelago, South Africa, New Zealand and the Azores. Darwin’s book is a vivid travel diary of this trip with personal anecdotes and observations on religious beliefs and racial typecasting, as well as a detailed scientific field journal covering biology, geology and anthropology. He found bones of extinct mammals, experienced volcanoes and discovered many new bird species. The book was instantly acclaimed and the insights he gained through his investigations eventually led to his theory of natural selection.

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This photographic identification guide to the 280 butterfly species most commonly seen in Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand is perfect for resident and visitor alike. High-quality photographs from the area's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions which include nomenclature, size, distribution, habits and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers geography and climate, vegetation, habitats, behaviour, opportunities for naturalists and the main sites for viewing the listed species. Also included is a classification of butterflies found in Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, from their superfamilies down to the level of genera to give an understanding of the relationships of butterflies

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This easy-to-use identification guide to the 150 reptile species most commonly seen in Sri Lanka is perfect for resident and visitor alike. High-quality photographs from the authors are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include size, distribution, habits and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers fascinating information on folklore associated with reptiles, snake topography, how to deal with snake bites and a glossary. Also included is an all-important checklist of all of the reptiles of Sri Lanka encompassing, for each species, its common and scientific name, and its IUCN status.

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This easy-to-use identification guide to the 280 bird species most commonly seen in Costa Rica is perfect for resident and visitor alike. High quality photographs from one of the country's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, size, distribution, habits and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers geography, climate, habitat types, bird species and taxonomy, bird migration and the key sites for viewing the listed species. Also included is an all- important checklist of all of the birds of Costa Rica encompassing, for each species, its common and scientific name, and IUCN status

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Whether youre a first-time visitor or making a return trip, the sheer majesty of New Zealands landscapes is always awe-inspiring. There are peaceful lakes and thundering waterfalls, active volcanoes and the looming icy peaks of the Southern Alps as well as beautiful sandy beaches. The country is the ultimate destination for those who are looking for an adventure holiday to explore the natural wonders and discover wildlife found nowhere else in the world.Beyond the scenic bounty, New Zealand also offers world-class local food, wine and accommodation, and friendly, welcoming people. From Auckland at the top of the North Island to Invercargill at the bottom of South Island, Liz Light describes and illustrates the epic scenery, the heritage attractions, the unique Maori culture and the renowned wine regions that make up a memorable trip to the country.

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Published to great critical acclaim in 2009 and with a 2nd edition in 2011, this is a fully revised and updated edition of the most user-friendly field guide to the birds of Borneo, covering Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei, and the Indonesian states of Kalimantan. The book gives descriptions of 669 species living or reported on the island, including 51 endemic species. These are superbly illustrated in 141 colour plates with more than 2,000 full colour bird images, including most of the sexual variants and immature forms of polymorphic species. Each plate is accompanied by species descriptions covering taxonomy, size, call, range, distribution, habits and status. Distribution is shown by detailed thumbnail maps. There are 7 habitat plates, 12 regional maps showing Borneo's top 130 birdwatching sites, fast-find graphic indexes to the birds of Kinabalu, and a full overview of vegetation, climate and ecology.

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Mungo Park set off from his home in the Scottish borders in May 1795 at the age of 23 to discover the course of the River Niger in West Africa. When he reappeared in England more than two and a half years later, he had been presumed dead, and the tale of his perilous journey published in 1799 was greeted with great acclaim. Travels in the Interior of Africa provided Europeans with one of the first detailed descriptions of the geography and peoples of the African continent. The story of his remarkable journey is told with extraordinary modesty and clarity, and it remains as vivid and readable today as when he first wrote it.Park went back to West Africa on a second journey in 1805, but he failed to return. In his last letter he declared his intent "to discover the termination of the Niger or perish in the attempt". He drowned in the Niger whilst trying to escape an attack by natives.

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The book starts with a look at Singapore's wild past: its biogeography from before human occupation up to 19th century changes and finishes with a look at the possible future of wildlife in the country. In between, there are full details on the current flora and fauna to be found in and on Singapore's reefs and rocks, mangroves and mud, lowland and swamp forests, and parks and gardens. A unique feature in each chapter is the 'Guided Tour' which takes readers to specific habitats to explore the trees, birds, plants and animals to be found there. Written by three expert authors, Wild Singapore provides an authoritative and entertaining survey of the wide spectrum of wildlife on the land and in the seas of Singapore

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