We are living in the early stages of a looming worldwide extinction crisis. Abundant evidence shows that the current rate of species extinctions is nearing its highest level since the asteroid collision 65 million years ago, and that humans are largely responsible. This book addresses the urgent need to understand and find solutions to this crisis. Written by an international team of contributors who are among the best-known and most active experimental biologists working in the field of conservation biology today, it provides a unique approach by focusing on individual species rather than whole plant and animal communities. Emphasizing throughout how conservation biology can benefit from an experimental approach, the book looks at a wide range of terrestrial and aquatic species - from giant pandas and tree snails to sea turtles and Steller sea lions - and demonstrates what can be done both to preserve rare species and to combat invasive organisms. Finally, contributors show how we can bridge the gap between policy makers and research scientists in order to develop lasting solutions to these problems.

Hawai'i is like no other place on earth. Raised above the sea by volcanic action, the islands are home to a fascinating array of animals, most of which are found nowhere else in the world. Because the Hawaiian islands are so isolated-more than 2000 miles from any large land mass-many of its native animals have developed unusual adaptations that help them survive. For example, Hawai'i has whales that sing dolphins that spin through the air bats that turn somersaults as they feed shrimp that climb waterfalls killer caterpillars a tiny blood-sucking bug that survives on the summit of Mauna Kea Hawai'i's habitats are fragile, however, and many of its native species are in danger of becoming extinct. Humans are the most dangerous threats to these threatened animals. Habitat destruction, pollution, development, and introduced species have all contributed to the loss or diminishment of Hawai'i's native species. Hawai'i is the extinction capital of the United States. Only through education and thoughtful conservation can we prevent the disappearance of any more of Hawai'i's unique animals. The first step is to learn about these animals and begin to appreciate their special characteristics.

'A terrific read . . . an outstanding book!' Gary Player and Vivienne Player 'A truly heart-wrenching story, but a must-read for all who value our wild animals and their right to roam free. Grant Fowlds is a Zulu in a white skin and loves the people who hold the key to animal conservation. This is an intriguing true story that sends a clear message to the rest of the world.' Phil Liggett 'Exceptionally readable - a fluid and captivating story . . . a swashbuckling tale.' Dr Dave Cooper, Rhinos Without Borders veterinarian, and Debbie Cooper of iSimangaliso Wetland Park 'A rollicking true-life adventure that celebrates rhinos and people' Guy Rogers, Daily Herald 'Truly awe-inspiring . . . Read this book. You will get a sense of Africa like never before, from a true African soul.' David S. Lee, Limbani in the blockbuster movie Black Panther 'An excellent read . . . both sobering and uplifting' Moira Smith, General Manager Africa & Middle East, Goway Travel What would drive a man to 'smuggle' rhino horn back into Africa at great risk to himself? This is just one of the situations Grant Fowlds has put himself in as part of his ongoing fight against poaching, in order to prove a link between southern Africa and the illicit, lucrative trade in rhino horn in Vietnam. Shavings of rhino horn are sold as a snake-oil 'cure' for colds or impotence, but a rhino's horn has no magical, medicinal properties. It is for this that rhinoceroses are being killed at an escalating rate that puts the survival of the species in jeopardy. This corrupt, illegal war on wildlife has brought an iconic animal to the brink of extinction. Growing up on a farm in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, Grant developed a deep love of nature, turning his back on hunting to focus on saving wildlife of all kinds and the environment that sustains both them and us. He is a passionate conservationist who puts himself on the front line of protecting rhinos in the wild - right now, against armed poachers; but in the longer term, too, through his work with schoolchildren, communities and policymakers. We are most grateful to photographer Gerhard van der Westhuizen for the use of his stunning photograph on the cover of the book.

On September 9th, 2012, the Abruzzo National Park - now Abruzzo, Latium and Molise National Park - celebrated its ninetieth birthday. It is - along with the Gran Paradiso National Park - the oldest protected area in Italy and one of the oldest in Europe. The colloquium held in Pescasseroli in May 2012, on which this volume is based, reconstructed the highlights of the Park's troubled but always influential history and took stock of its connections with the other protected areas, with Italian and international environmentalism and with the Italian society at large.

Principles for Management of Fisheries and Wildlife: The Manager as Decision-maker is a unique introductory text that explains critical theories and principles of management and how to apply these successfully to real-world fisheries and wildlife situations and issues. Readers learn about management paradigms, decision-making frameworks and skills, planning for success, and ethics - all taught in the context of fisheries and wildlife issues such as habitat management, human-wildlife conflict, managing over-abundant and at-risk species, and harvest regulations. Each chapter includes guiding outcomes, terms and definitions and critical thinking questions. Opening problems and closing case studies provide opportunities for application of both ecological and management knowledge and skills. Readers also benefit from learning about international models of wildlife management. Rooted in the belief that biological and ecological knowledge can only be enhanced by sound management, planning, and decision-making skills, the book prepares biologists to be successful managers and leaders. Principles for Management of Fisheries and Wildlife is an outstanding textbook for introductory courses in the discipline.