Lizards of the World is ultimate book on these fascinating creatures, featuring the all the different types of lizard worldwide. As survivors from the time of the dinosaurs, lizards are scaly, cold-blooded, living fossils - relics from a prehistoric world that remain alive and well in ours. Lizards exert a morbid fascination, in many mythologies they are dark creatures, symbolizing death and misfortune. From chameleons and skinks to geckos and iguanas, Lizards of the World brings these creatures firmly into the light, to reveal their extraordinary diversity Found in almost every type of terrain globally, there are almost 6,500 species of lizard, including lizards with frills, horns or wings, those that drop their tails, and others that squirt blood from their eyes. Here, the lizard family and subfamily profiles, organized phylogenetically, are illustrated with stunning photography. Each profile includes a population distribution map, a table of essential information and a fascinating commentary revealing notable characteristics, fresh scientific understanding and the diversity of species. Written by world-renowned herpetologist Mark O'Shea, Lizards of the World is a magnificent showcase of the natural history and beauty of these remarkable reptiles.

A gorgeously illustrated guide to the incredible diversity of snakes around the world Snakes are found on every continent except Antarctica and have evolved to occupy a vast range of habitats, from mountains to oceans and deserts to rain forests. Snakes of the World explores their extraordinary diversity, with an in-depth introduction covering anatomy, behavior, habitats, reproduction, conservation, and other essential topics. This expert guide also includes profiles of some of the approximately 4,000 species of snakes, featuring examples from every family and subfamily. Each family profile highlights the remarkable appearance, characteristics, and lifestyle of notable snake species. Covering how snakes use venom or constriction to subdue their prey, how a snake's appearance can aid camouflage or boast of its killing capacity, and how habitat destruction is jeopardizing the future of many species, Snakes of the World is an invaluable guide to these fascinating reptiles. Features more than 200 stunning color photographs Presents species profiles with a commentary, distribution map, and table of information Includes examples from every snake family and subfamily

A fascinating guide to the hidden world of snakes, crocodiles, alligators, lizards, turtles, spiders, beetles, bugs, butterflies, moths, bees and ants. More than 1500 fabulous wildlife photographs and illustrations provide a stunning close-up view of survival in the wild. Exciting and accessible information provides an insight into every aspect of reptile and insect life and behaviour

A lavishly illustrated overview of the world’s lizards Lizards are one of nature’s great success stories: survivors from the time of the dinosaurs, they have taken advantage of almost every habitat on earth, from tropical rainforest to Arctic tundra and even our homes. From chameleons and skinks to geckos and iguanas, there are close to 7,000 species of lizards around the world. This expert guide explores their extraordinary diversity and adaptations. Lizards of the World features an in-depth introduction covering the evolution, anatomy, and lifestyle of lizards, followed by profiles of species from every family, accompanied by stunning color photographs. This invaluable guide highlights the enormous range of habitats, appearance, and activity among lizards. Many thrive in extreme conditions, and have adapted to keep cool, warm, or hydrated. Some can protect themselves by changing color to blend in with their surroundings, while others have fringed toes enabling them to run across sand, or can parachute out of a predator’s reach. Covering diet and reproduction as well as defense strategies and conservation, Lizards of the World showcases the unique natural history and beauty of these remarkable creatures. More than 200 detailed photographic images 80+ lizard families and subfamilies Exploration of lizard biology, behavior, habits, and distribution Broad coverage and in-depth treatment by a world-renowned herpetologist

This title helps you discover the astonishing world of chameleons, geckos, iguanas and more, with over 190 pictures. You can explore the extraordinary natural history of lizards. You can learn about their survival tactics in the wild, such as the toughened skin of the rough-scaled plated lizard and the bloodthirsty appetite of the Komodo dragon. You can see how some species regrow their tails after losing them to predators, while others change appearance to blend in with their surroundings. Mark O'Shea, a renowned reptile expert and adventurer, takes you on location with him around the world and gives tips on how to go lizard-watching yourself. It is packed with over 190 exciting images, many of them taken in the field by the author himself. It is ideal for home or school use by 8- to 12-year-olds. Find out why lizards are more numerous and successful than any other group of reptiles and trace their evolution - from dinosaurs, pterosaurs and ichthyosaurs to the rich diversity of species in existence today. On the way, you will witness some amazing tactics for survival, such as how lizards' bodies and watertight skins work so that they can live on minimal amounts of food and water. Meet the 'Jesus lizard' that walks on water, the glider that sails through the air from tree to tree, and the horned lizard of Texas that shoots blood from its eyes.