Sasol First Field Guide to Snakes & Other Reptiles of Southern Africa provides fascinating insight into the reptiles of the region.

Through full-colour photographs and distribution maps, and easy-to-read text, the beginner and budding naturalist will be able to identify the more common species found in southern Africa, discover where they live, and learn about their unique feeding and nesting habits.

Containing 146 stunning color photos, "Animals of the Serengeti" is a remarkable look at the mammals and reptiles most likely to be encountered in the world-famous Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. With an eye-catching layout, accessible text, and easy-to-use format, this detailed photographic guide includes 89 species of mammal and reptile. Useful "Top Tips"--shared by local Tanzanian guides that work in the region--provide visitors with insights into behavioral habits and how to locate specific animals. Filled with vivid anecdotes, "Animals of the Serengeti" will enable any safari traveler to identify the area's wildlife with ease.Covers the 89 species likely to be encountered in Tanzania's Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area Features male and female variationsAccessible text aimed at safari visitors of all levels

Spotlight: Hares is packed with eye-catching, informative colour photos, and features succinct and detailed text written by a knowledgeable naturalist. With their wild glare, swift turn of foot and secretive nature, hares are the rabbit's mysterious and untameable cousin. Always a thrilling wildlife spot, the hare has long been a symbol of Britain's sweeping, open countryside. Hares have also been associated with human culture and folklore for many centuries - their associations with spring can be traced back to the druids. Focussing on our two British species, the Brown Hare (found throughout the UK and widely distributed in Europe and Asia) and its more northerly relative the Mountain Hare (found in Scotland, Ireland, Scandinavia and the Russian Federation), RSPB Spotlight Hares offers exciting and up-to-date information on these incredible lagomorphs, with chapters covering their biology, evolution, natural history, behaviour, including courtship rituals, and ecology. Information on some of the more charismatic species of hare found elsewhere in the world and on hares' other relatives, the rabbits and pikas, is also provided. The author discusses in detail Hares' interactions with humans, in agriculture, habitat management, shooting and hunting, as well as in more culinary matters, and reveals why this almost mythical animal of hill and meadow is so sensitive to the changes we make to age-old farming landscapes. The presence and significance of hares in our culture is also discussed, including the Easter hare, Lewis Carroll's mad March hare, and hares as shape-changers. Nancy Jennings also offers useful tips on where and how to see hares for yourself in the wild.

The Indian Ocean island of Madagascar is one of the world's great natural treasures and ecotourism destinations. Despite being an island, it is home to nearly an entire continent's variety of species, from the famous lemurs to a profusion of bizarre and beautiful birds, reptiles and amphibians. Wildlife of Madagascar is a compact and beautifully illustrated photographic guide, and an essential companion for any visitor or resident. With an eye-catching design, authoritative and accessible text and easy-to-use format, it provides information on identification, distribution, habitat, behaviour, biology and conservation for all the mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and butterflies likely to be seen. * The most comprehensive single-volume field guide to Madagascar's wildlife * Attractive layout features more than 900 stunning colour photographs * Covers the mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and butterflies, and some of the other invertebrates and plants, most likely to be seen * Provides key information about identification, distribution, habitat, behaviour and conservation * Introductory sections provide background information on Madagascar and its unique environments

A stunningly illustrated natural history of spiders Spiders are among the most versatile creatures on the planet, inhabiting six of the seven continents and thriving in environments ranging from deserts and rain forests to Arctic tundra and cities. Spiders of the World is a captivating look at these wondrously adaptable and endlessly intriguing arachnids, written by six of the world's leading experts on spiders. This stunningly illustrated natural history features a wealth of spectacular color photos and covers a breathtaking array of spider species from around the globe, describing their behaviors, characteristics, and remarkable evolutionary adaptations. An incisive and engaging introduction provides an invaluable overview of the world's spiders, and is followed by in-depth profiles spanning more than 100 spider families and presented taxonomically. Each profile is organized phylogenetically and includes beautiful photography to illustrate various species within the family. There are also distribution maps, tables of essential facts, and commentaries highlighting diverse aspects of spider biology, making Spiders of the World an indispensable volume for anyone who wants to learn more about these marvelous creatures. Provides a richly illustrated look at spiders of all shapes and sizes from around the world Features hundreds of color photos and diagrams Spans more than 100 spider families and covers an array of different species Explores spider behavior, attributes, biology, and evolution Includes distribution maps, tables of essential facts, informative commentaries, and more Engages and educates readers about the unique natural history of spiders

Of all Africa's wildlife, none has captured the imagination more than those species that have come over the years to be known as the big five. Whether the biggest, the most beautiful, the fiercest or most formidable, these animals are the ones that have the power to remind us of our insignificance in the face of the true kings of the savannas. This is a truly magnificent record of Africa's Big Five.

'I value my garden more for being full of blackbirds than of cherries, and very frankly give them fruit for their songs.' Joseph Addison This pocket-sized miscellany, packed with fascinating facts, handy hints and captivating stories and quotes from the world of birds, is perfect for anyone who knows the incomparable joy of birdwatching.

Celebrate the kings of the canine world with this collection of photographs and information by award-winning author and wildlife photographer Stan Tekiela. Their beauty strikes us. Their mystique enchants us. Wolves, coyotes, and foxes are beloved, appreciated, and misunderstood. A sighting in nature is rare, which serves to enhance our fascination with these magnificent animals. Award-winning author, naturalist, and wildlife photographer Stan Tekiela believes that wolves, coyotes, and foxes are mystical and elusive. He spent more than 20 years traveling across the United States and Canada to observe and photograph the various species, from Gray Wolves and Arctic Foxes to Coyotes and Red Wolves. He documented every aspect of the canines' secret lives: major events such as mating, as well as everyday activities including hunting, playing, and socializing. The result is a striking portrayal of these mammals in Wolves, Coyotes & Foxes. Stan's extraordinary photographs depict the creatures in a new, unique fashion. His fascinating text, drawn from detailed research and personal observations, provides information about every aspect of their lives. Presented with headings and short paragraphs, the coffee-table book is pleasurable to browse and easy to read. "Their presence commands respect and attention," says Stan. "They are nature's perfect model of a family." Unmatched by any other book on the market, Wolves, Coyotes & Foxes is a must-have for lovers of wildlife and nature.

Identify mammal scat in eastern North America with this pocket-size guide. If you're fascinated by animal tracks or the practice of tracking, then learning to identify scat is a helpful aid. If you're curious about which critters are crossing your path or are in your backyard, then Scat Finder by Dorcas S. Miller is just what you need. With the handy, easy-to-use book, you can identify mammal scat of eastern North America, from the states that border the Mississippi River all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. Book Features: Key to mammal scat: cords, pellets, splats, and tubes Tips on where to find scat and what its color and shape can tell you A look at the animals' teeth, jaws, and digestive systems Clues for distinguishing between scat from similar species (e.g., within the same family) Scat size guide, including minimum, maximum, and typical size range A study of birds' cough pellets and droppings The author's professional drawings of the animals and their scat Small (6- by 4-inch) format that fits in a pocket or backpack to take along on a hike This guide is applicable to eastern Canada and the US states of Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

The most complete photographic field guide to hoverflies of Britain and North-west Europe ever written. An essential part of our eco-systems, hoverflies are the second most important pollinators after bees but sadly, more than a third of all European species are now under threat of extinction. Written by two leading experts, Hoverflies of Britain and North-west Europe is the first and only photographic field guide to cover all 400 hoverfly species occurring in Britain and neighbouring countries in such detail. Each species account contains a description, population status, ecology and habitat, an up-to-date map of its distribution across North-western Europe, a flight time diagram and guidance on differentiating similar species. There are also detailed illustrations and stunning full-colour macro photographs in each account, showing key features of the species to aid accurate identification. This is the ultimate photographic field guide to hoverflies, and a perfect introduction into the world of these important pollinators, both for amateur and expert entomologists alike.

John James Audubon is arguably America's most widely recognized and collected artist. His Birds of America has been reproduced often, beginning with the double elephant folio printed by Havill in England, followed by a much smaller "Octavo" edition printed in Philadelphia and sold by subscription. After Audubon's death, his family arranged with the New York printer Julius Bien to produce another elephant folio edition, this time by the new chromolithographic process. It too would be sold by subscription, but the venture, begun in 1858, was brought to an abrupt end by the Civil War. Only 150 plates were produced, and the number remaining today is slight; they are among the rarest and most sought after Audubon prints. Bound in cloth with a full cloth slipcase, this beautifully produced book is the first complete reproduction of Bien chromolithographs and will become the centerpiece of any bird lover's library.

What does it mean to be a part of-rather than apart from-nature? This book is about how we interact with wildlife and the ways in which this can make our lives richer and more fulfilling. But it also explores the conflicts and contradictions inevitable in a world that is now so completely dominated by our own species. Interest in wildlife and wild places, and their profound effects on human wellbeing, have increased sharply as we face up to the ongoing biodiversity extinction crisis and reassess our priorities following a global pandemic. Ian Carter, lifelong naturalist and a former bird specialist at Natural England, sets out to uncover the intricacies of the relationship between humans and nature. In a direct, down-to-earth style he explains some of the key practical, ethical and philosophical problems we must navigate as we seek to reconnect with nature. This wide-ranging and infectiously personal account does not shy away from controversial subjects-such as how we handle invasive species, reintroductions, culling or dog ownership-and reveals in stark terms that properly addressing our connection to the natural world is an imperative, not a luxury. Short, pithy chapters make this book ideal for dipping into. Meanwhile, it builds into a compelling whole as the story moves from considering the wildlife close to home through to conflicts and, finally, the joy and sense of escape that can be had in the wildest corners of our landscapes, where there is still so much to discover.

Sea squirts and sponges are found in most seafloor habitats around the coasts of Britain and Ireland. Despite being the dominant life forms in many areas, these two groups of under-recorded marine animals are often confused with one another, and most divers and snorkellers can recognise and name very few species. In fact, around 500 species of Ascidiacea (sea squirts) and Porifera (sponges) have been described so far in British and Irish seas, corresponding to over 4% of the world's total. This book is recommended reading for anyone who wants to identify and discover more about these fascinating and diverse animals. Rather than relying on the characteristics of preserved specimens, this guide uses marine photography and detailed underwater observations to concentrate on in situ features, allowing you to record species without collecting them. Most sea squirts found in Britain and Ireland's shallow waters are included, together with the most easily recognised sponges. Whether you are a student, a diver, a rockpooler or simply an enthusiast, this is an essential companion. aAA AA Over 115 species described in detail, with in situ photographs to help with underwater recognition aAA AA Information on size, depth, habitat and distribution aAA AA Key distinguishing features and areas of confusion in identification highlighted aAA AA Details of body structure, life histories, digestive and reproductive processes aAA AA Information about predators, interactions between species, non-native and problem invasive species

Learn to attract and feed a variety finches with this pocket-sized guide. The bold yellow color of the male American Goldfinch is a welcome sight in any summer garden. And the pleasing songs and high-pitched calls of all the finches truly bring your yard to life. You love these beloved birds, and you want to see them visiting your backyard or garden. Professional naturalist and award-winning author Stan Tekiela teaches you all that you need to know about finches, from crossbills to grosbeaks. The handy book is divided into three main sections. First, you'll learn all about finches: facts, range, habitat, songs, nests, and more. Up next, you'll be introduced to the seeds and other foods-such as grains and mixes-that keep finches coming back. In the third section, Stan tells you which feeders finches prefer and why. You'll also be given information on placing feeders, cleaning feeders, and protecting finches. Find out how to make your yard into a habitat that finches will love. Then enjoy Stan's finch photography, trivia, and quick tips. This is truly your guide to attracting and feeding finches!

A guide to birdwatching sites in the Canary Islands: this book shows you where to go and when to visit for the best birding experience. This guide is best used alongside your field guide - it does not include information about identifying birds. This site guide provides detailed information on the best birding spots on this attractive island archipelago. Each site entry gives location and access, accommodation, birding strategy and species expected to be seen. It also includes a selective bird list giving brief details on the distribution and status of the uncommon birds which may be found, cross-referenced to site information, as well as a full species list. It includes additional useful information on planning a trip, such as travel options, climate and clothing, and health and medical facilities. This is a site guide, not an identification guide.

Capturing life at sea through engaging photographs, compelling stories, and authentic fisherman's recipes, this characterful volume is a one-of-a-kind companion for all sea lovers with a sense of adventure and appetite. Whether in the shimmering sunshine of the Adriatic Coast or up against a two-and-a-half-meter swell in Brittany, Captain's Dinner is a maritime journey of discovery through the world of fishing. What does it mean to be dependent on the vagaries of nature on a daily basis? What is it like to haul in fishing nets in rain and galeforce 8 wind? How do freshly caught breams, herring, etc. actually end up on deck by lunch break and on the plate by night? In search of answers, photographer Paul Pfluger braved the wind and weather to accompany 27 fishermen at work on European seas, observing their daily routine over several months. The result is a lively, intimate, and unadulterated logbook of fishing and life at sea, combining captivating portraits of the protagonists alongside their own commentaries on the delicate craft and hard labour that make up a fisherman's existence today, not least when faced with critically-diminished fish stocks and attendant fishing quotas. The featured fishermen also share their own favourite, previously-unpublished seafood dishes, from fried onion herb herring to Irish surf & turf or cold smoked mullet. With more than 50 of these delicious, simple seafood recipes, Captain's Dinner is a must for all those who love and care about the sea and its unique flavours.

Here in an easy-to-use format is the first guide to the nearly 1,300 species of non-passerine South American birds. It complements Robert Ridgly and Guy Tudor's large reference volumes on the passerines (1,800 species), which will soon be available in a single-volume field guide format.

One of things that makes this book special is its use of masterful and alluring illustrations; most neotropical birders will want the book for the illustrations alone. The text concentrates on the key identification features of each species and follows the layout of other books in this series. The book may be used in conjunction with regional and country field guides. First guide to nearly 1,300 species Easy-to-use format Complements volumes on passerine birds Contains key identification features More than 150 color illustrations More than 1,270 maps

From two of the world’s leading authorities on dogs, an imaginative journey into a future of dogs without people What would happen to dogs if humans simply disappeared? Would dogs be able to survive on their own without us? A Dog’s World imagines a posthuman future for dogs, revealing how dogs would survive—and possibly even thrive—and explaining how this new and revolutionary perspective can guide how we interact with dogs now. Drawing on biology, ecology, and the latest findings on the lives and behavior of dogs and their wild relatives, Jessica Pierce and Marc Bekoff—two of today’s most innovative thinkers about dogs—explore who dogs might become without direct human intervention into breeding, arranged playdates at the dog park, regular feedings, and veterinary care. Pierce and Bekoff show how dogs are quick learners who are highly adaptable and opportunistic, and they offer compelling evidence that dogs already do survive on their own—and could do so in a world without us. Challenging the notion that dogs would be helpless without their human counterparts, A Dog’s World enables us to understand these independent and remarkably intelligent animals on their own terms.

Get the New Edition of New York's Best-Selling Bird Guide Learn to identify birds in New York, and make bird-watching even more enjoyable. With Stan Tekiela's famous field guide, bird identification is simple and informative. There's no need to look through dozens of photos of birds that don't live in your area. This book features 126 species of New York birds organized by color for ease of use. Do you see a yellow bird and don't know what it is? Go to the yellow section to find out. Book Features: 126 species: Only New York birds Simple color guide: See a yellow bird? Go to the yellow section Compare feature: Decide between look-alikes Stan's Notes: Naturalist tidbits and facts Professional photos: Crisp, stunning full-page images This new edition includes more species, updated photographs and range maps, revised information, and even more of Stan's expert insights. So grab Birds of New York Field Guide for your next birding adventure-to help ensure that you positively identify the birds that you see.

Identify Maryland and Delaware birds with this easy-to-use field guide, organized by color and featuring full-color photographs and helpful information. Make bird-watching in Maryland and Delaware even more enjoyable. With Stan Tekiela’s famous bird guide, field identification is simple and informative. There’s no need to look through dozens of photos of birds that don’t live in your area. This handy book features 148 species of Maryland and Delaware birds—including Washington, D.C., and the Chesapeake Bay—organized by color for ease of use. Full-page photographs present the species as you’ll see them in nature, and a “compare” feature helps you to decide between look-alikes. Inside you’ll find: 148 species: Only Maryland and Delaware birds! Simple color guide: See a yellow bird? Go to the yellow section Stan’s Notes: Naturalist tidbits and facts Professional photos: Crisp, stunning images This second edition includes new species, updated photographs and range maps, expanded information, and even more of Stan’s expert insights. So grab the Birds of Maryland & Delaware Field Guide for your next birding adventure—to help ensure that you positively identify the birds that you see.

Discover the world of the wolves of Speedwell Forge Wolf Sanctuary, a refuge for displaced wolves located in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania. Through captivating and, at times, startling images, experience wolves at work and play, and encounter their howls and growls close up. Since 2007, Chuck Rineer has photographed the packs in their natural habitat, displaying a connection and respect for their way of life that few of us will experience. See the hidden details of wolf life, and go behind-the-scenes of this special sanctuary. Learn how the newest wolves are integrated into the packs, something rarely seen by human eyes, and follow all the wolves through the different seasons of the year. Full of stunning photographs, stories, and insights into pack behavior, this is a must-have book for those who have been captivated by wolves from afar and long for the chance to see these majestic animals up close and personal.