Book Description
Far from the line drawings and black-and-white photos of the past, Infectious Diseases and Pathology of Reptiles features high-quality, color photos of normal anatomy and histology, as well as gross, light, and electron microscopic images of pathogens and diseases. Many of these images have never before been published, and come directly from the esteemed editors collection documenting more than 30 years in the research of infectious diseases and veterinary care of reptiles.
A comprehensive reference, the book includes definitive information on every aspect of the anatomy, pathophysiology, and differential diagnosis of infectious diseases affecting reptiles. Beginning with a thorough review of the biology, anatomy, and histology of reptiles, the introductory chapters cover all major systems and provide the most complete single source for color images of reptile histology. It addresses the mechanism of reptile immunology and the response to pathogens, and explains how immunological response is key to differential diagnosis. Given the difficulty in isolating certain pathogens for identification, the book provides an overview of electron microscopy, complete with electron micrographs of reptile pathogens, and introduces the necessity of molecular methods for diagnosis. The text outlines serodiagnostics and the development and use of immunological reagents specifically designed for reptiles in tests such as indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Finally, the book devotes several chapters to the viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic diseases known to reptiles and methods for isolating these pathogens.
With up-to-the-minute data, a never-before-seen collection of images, and a stellar panel of contributors, Infectious Diseases and Pathology of Reptiles is the definitive resource forveterinarians, biologists, and researchers involved in the study of pathogens infecting reptiles. ... Read more

Book Description
Discover the Red-bellied Turtle, which is nearly extinct. Uncover a Garter Snake in your backyard. Locate an Alligator Lizard-or a Legless one. Identifying reptiles is fascinating and fun with this classic guide. Abundant illustrations and the Key Characteristic system, preferred by professional, make this single-volume reference an outstanding choice for nature projects, collectors of all ages, and scientific study.All of North America in one volume278 species and 500 subspecies in 22 families....plus 18 exoticsIllustrations, include juveniles and adults, body forms, undersides, scales, and more!Text, range maps, and illustrations seen together at a glanceCommon and scientific namesConvenient measuring rules....Plus first aid information for snakebites. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Somewhat recognizable.
Somewhat recognizable entries of herpetology by Hobart M. Smith. He seems somewhat experienced in advanced herpetology and does not hesitate to document it in this guide. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A worthwhile addition to the series
This and "How to Hide a Butterfly" are the two books of the entire series that my son is still requesting a good year after first receiving them. All of the books are at least good, but this one is one of the better ones. The best of them all is probably "How to Hide a Meadow Frog", which my son only no longer reads because it fell to pieces about 2 months ago from constant reading. Butterfly, Crocodile, and Octopus are all also very good. Unless you're buying the whole series, I'd take a pass on "How to Hide a Polar Bear" and "How to Hide a Parakeet". The former tries, but the mammals simply don't hide as interestingly as the insects or the amphibians, while the latter depends too much on the mottled brown birds, when there are plenty of birds out there that hide very well with more interesting coloration. ... Read more

Book Description
A COLORFUL AND INFORMATIVE first glimpse into the diverse world of reptiles. With the help of the beautifully detailed illustrations from noted wildlife illustrator John Sill, About Reptiles explains the basic characteristics that all reptiles share, while offering a look at the animals that fall into this diverse category. An afterword provides further detail on the animals portrayed to inspire young readers to learn more. In this easy-to-read introduction to reptiles for children, elementary school teacher and author Cathryn Sill explains what reptiles are, how they live, and what they do. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

My 2 y.o. son likes this book a lot.
My son really enjoys all of the books in this series.I like that the illustrations are realistic and that species names are included.And as he gets older he really enjoys the additional information that's included in the back of the book! ... Read more

Book Description
Over eighty percent of living reptiles reproduce by laying eggs. Many reptile species are threatened by extinction and captive breeding programs are one way to prevent their complete disappearance. Correct incubation of the eggs is a critical step in the captive breeding process.This book brings together the available information and experiences on reptile egg incubation from numerous experts and provides a comprehensive description of reptile egg morphology, reptile embryo physiology and development, incubation techniques, solutions for problems with incubation, and details to assure the successful incubation of the eggs of most reptile species. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Decent, but far from perfect
This book undertakes a huge task.Basic incubation information is all there, but when it comes to breaking things down based on lineage, species coverage is terribly lop-sided.

Snake eggs scarcely get a page of specific coverage, with pythons getting about that much again.Leopard geckos and fat-tailed geckos are not distinguished from one another or from other gecko species (which is suprising considering the many temperature-dependent effects leopards can experience during incubation), while day geckos and a few other groups get their own respective sections.The groups of turtles that are addressed seem unbalanced.Monitors can be notoriously difficult to incubate, and are not covered in enough detail.

There is an appendix that lists known incubation parameters for many species - I don't know of this information being previously available in any book aimed at pet keepers.

Overall, most everyone can pick up something from this book.For a hardback of its size and content, it is well-priced.Your reptile rearing library won't be near complete without "Reptilian Incubation" (Deeming, 2004), but the price and academic nature of that title will regrettably deter many, despite the fact that its content warrants it to be much sought after - moreso than "Incubation of Reptile Eggs."

excellent book
great book. It is a must for reptile keepers wanting to know about reptile egg incubation

Useful
I bought this book as a present for my boyfriend who has been keeping reptiles (mostly snakes) for about 13 years and recently decided to get into breeding. He already knows a lot, but on more than one occasion mentioned to me how this book contained some things he didn't already know and help him build his own incubator and make the right choices on supply materials.

Incubation of Reptile Eggs: Basics, Guidelines, Experiences
This was just the information I needed.

Thanks

A superb, in-depth resource
Incubation of Reptile Eggs is a scientific account that collects available information and experience from a wealth of experts concerning the proper incubation of reptile eggs, knowledge that is vital to the success of captive breeding programs that are one defense against species extinction. Charts, full-color photographs, and technical details spell out the crucial importance of temperature, humidity, and special care that must be taken for various species (for example, monitor lizards eat their own eggs). A superb, in-depth resource especially for herpetologists and reptile caretakers.
... Read more

Book Description
This field guide at last provides an authoritative and handy source for identifying amphibians and reptiles of Costa Rica's renowned Atlantic lowland tropical forests. Colorful frogs, lizards that can run across water, snapping turtles, spotted geckos, boa constrictors, crocodiles, and many other fascinating yet secretive species of amphibians and reptiles flourish in the region's myriad microhabitats. The La Selva Biological Station, a protected reserve, boasts a rich biota, making it and the surrounding area one of the most visited tropical forest sites in the world.
For travelers, ecotourists, and biologists, this comprehensive guide, written by two distinguished experts on the area's amphibians and reptiles, will be an essential resource while visiting La Selva and the surrounding tropical forests of Costa Rica. In addition to providing reliable field identification, it will help visitors to this area better understand the overall role of Central American amphibians and reptiles in the natural world as well as conservation efforts now being undertaken to ensure the survival of these intriguing creatures.
* 138 frogs, lizards, snakes, and crocodiles are included in keys based primarily on color patterns for easy identification
* Each species is illustrated with a color photograph; the guide also features range maps and black-and-white drawings
* Includes an overview of the natural history of each amphibian and reptile and gives helpful tips on where to observe them ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Good if you stay in La Selva, Costa Rica
Nice compact book.The only trouble is that it is so specific to one little area that it misses species that may be just down the road or just less common in this area. Nice for a quick reference for common species but not as extensive as I would like.The keys are useful.It is not always easy finding a field guide with good keys!

Great book, great price
I took thisbook on a recent research trip to a preserve near La Selva, and used it daily. Not just a field guide with pretty pictures, this book contains a key to the species. Since it is specific to this area of the country, it cut down on the amount of material that had to be sorted through to ID organisms. I could quickly key out species without having to worry about whether or not this was the right area for that particular species. The photos were clear and beautiful, with different color phases and sexual dimorphisms illustrated. If you are traveling to this specific area of Costa Rica, this book is really useful. It's small, lightweight, easy to use, and CHEAP! ... Read more

Book Description
The Yucatn Peninsula is today divided among Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico. Travelers to this region discover both astonishing archaeological sites and a stunning array of wildlife, including crocodiles, turtles, lizards, snakes, frogs, toads, and salamanders. This book--written by the world's leading authority on the herpetology of the lowland Maya area--is the only comprehensive field guide to all the species of amphibians and reptiles found there.

This field guide allows identification of all native and introduced species of amphibians and reptiles of the region.

features nearly 180 color photographs and 180 drawings.

offers valuable techniques for field identification, and a glossary of herpetological terms.

provides in each species account: description, natural history, similar species, and geographic distribution (complete with maps of each animal's range).

includes suggested readings for those who want to know more about a particular species.

illustrates all tadpoles.

describes the most characteristic vocalizations of the reptiles and amphibians in the volume.

introduces the physical geography, climate, and vegetation of the region, with emphasis on the habitats of amphibians and reptiles. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Incomplete field guide for vacationing naturalist
Includes multiple color photographs of certain species, and lacks any color photographs of ~1/3 of species described.Species lacking color photos are represented by black and white line drawings of head and in some cases the entire body.Would not recommend for a casual visitor to the region.

Excellent field guide
This book is perfect for anyone interested in herps in the Maya Forest. Complementary to Campbell's field guide, but also includes great line drawings, range maps, and characteristics to distinguish from similar species. Also, better photos than in Campbell's guide. If I were to buy one field guide for the area, I'd choose this over Campbell's.

An exceptionally well laid out field guide
A Field Guide To The Amphibians And Reptiles Of The Maya World is a comprehensive survey of the crocodiles, turtles, lizards, snakes, frogs, toads, and salamanders found in Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico. This exceptionally well laid out field guide allows the easy identification of all native and introduced species of amphibians and reptiles of the region; is enhanced with 180 color photographs and 180 drawings; provides valuable techniques for field identification; includes a glossary of herpetological terms; and for each species gives a full description, natural history, and geographic distribution information (complete with maps). There are suggested readings for those who want to know more about a particular species, even descriptions of the most characteristic vocalizations of the reptiles and amphibians surveyed. A Field Guide To The Amphibians And Reptiles Of The Maya World is a "must" for any personal, professional, or academic library collection of natural history and herpetology reference works.

Amphibians and Reptiles of the Maya world
Julian C. Lee's field guide of the amphibians and reptiles of the Mayaworld is excellent. The color photographs make it easy to identify theanimal in question; the maps give the reader the distribution of the form;the text gives a short synopsis of the characters and natural history ofthe taxon; the photos, line drawings, and the PRICE make it all worthwhile.Any person visiting the outback of the Yucatan Peninsulaneeds a copy of this book.All Nature Touring Companies should have itavailable for their clients.A wonderful addition for any professionalherpetologist bookshelf. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

My Grandfather
I am the Grand daughter of Bernard Martof!!!! I have liiked a the book. It has beautiful photographs. Great facts too!! If you need a reptile question answered you should look at this book!!! If I ever do a reptile study I think I will look in this book. I like the frog on the cover too!

Terrific resources as field guide or reference
Excellent book!It's a little more detailed that a typical field guide but what I like most about it is that its specific to our area.So, while I have a larger field guide (for the region) I also really love having this one because it's more focused.In the beginning of the book there's an introduction to habitat with great pictures showing what the habitats look like.The book then goes into the specific species - I was particularly interested in the salamanders and amphibians but the sections on snakes, turtles and lizards are super too.The pictures are great, descriptions cover approx. size, colors/patterns, species that they could be confused with, habitats, and egg laying (timing, incubation etc).Great book to have on hand.

Highly recommended
I've had and used this book since it came out in 1980. I always recommend it to all of the classes and seminars I give on reptiles and amphibians and to all of the people who ask for a good field guide because, for the size and cost, there are none better for this part of the country. Well worth the money if a handy, accurate, well-done field guide with great photos and range maps is what you want.

Great way to learn about what you see
I love this book. We see a snake in the woods, and take note of as many characteristics as we can, then look it up later to learn more about it. Same with frogs, toads, lizards, skinks! The actual information providedfor each reptile is slim but very interesting. This is a great book to haveif you spend any time in the wild in Virginia. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (7)

Almost an encyclopedia
A large, heavy book, even in paperback.Good illustrations (mostly photos), a large quantity of information, not only on the reptiles and amphibians, but on Costa Rica itself, even to including a short political history.Great value for the price!

GREEEEEEEEAT BOOK
Incredible book with very good pictures. It contains identification and biological informations about all the species of Costa Rica.
Simply a must for this type of literature.

The Amphibians and Reptiles of Costa Rica: A Herpetofauna between Two Continents, between Two Seas <br />by Jay M. Savage
Super informative, I recommend getting the hard cover binding, as this book is huge and heavy.

Buy it just for the color plates!
It's breadth of knowledge and splendorous photos will greatly increase your travel pleasure, because you really CAN see these animals just casually criss-crossing the country; you don't have to go to a special preserve.

In fact,another book I brought with me to Costa Rica last year, "Costa Rica : The Last Country the Gods Made," had a photo of a giant iguana that was taken literally 5 steps off the sand at the ultra-popular Manuel Antonio beach!

And guess what?I saw one when I was there!

Costa Rica, Reptile Place
I have spent a considerable amount of time in Costa Rica, and I found this book to be both accurate and interesting. The reptiles, the amphibians...they're all there. Costa Rica is a beautiful country, and this is a beautiful book. A+, ... Read more

Product Description
Drawing on the latest scientific research, the authors introduce the book with a discussion of reptile identification, diversity, biology, distribution patterns, and where to find and observe them, as well as unraveling the facts and fallacies of snakebites.

Written in a lively and accessible way, the subsequent chapters offer insight into:· Identification to group level, with an inclusive list of related species· A detailed description of appearance, together with colorful images· Biology and behavior of each group· Conservation status of species· Reproduction details· DistributionInformative panels provide key information at a glance, with a distribution map and clear icons giving typical habitat and period of activity. A wealth of full-color photographs throughout brings the subject matter vividly to life. This book will appeal to all wildlife enthusiasts, both professional and amateur, and will prove to be a valuable guide in the field. ... Read more

Product Description
This book and CD set is the new standard in reptile and amphibian field guides. You'll see color photos of all the species in your state, and you can listen to the calls of frogs and toads. Enjoy photos of each species, detailed insets depicting scales, underbellies and tails, fascinating naturalist information, and more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Sticky CD Unnecessary
The book is great. The CD stuck to the back is a pain to remove. We're writing the publisher. Also, would have liked to purchase the book without the CD anyway. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

Customer Reviews (10)

Sharp but Dated
P.J. O'Rourke is what a Republican used to be about--the party of Lincoln and Teddy Roosevelt.Small government and small industry.Trusting people to take care of themselves without a hovering nanny looking after them.This book serves as a position piece for a party that has been hijacked by forces alien to its foundation.And it's pretty damned funny besides.

It's dated, though.Written a good twenty years ago, it addresses such issues as poverty in Marcos's Philippenes and a constitutional crisis in the Turks and Caicos islands.This isn't exactly front-page material any longer.We get an overview of O'Rourke's beliefs and the source of them, but one wonders what you'd get out of them today.

Sadly, the author isn't as eloquent anymore, nor is he as politically inclusive.He's lapsed into a sad neo-conservative agenda that seems almost antithetical to the contents of this book.But at least, between these covers, we still have the writings of a man who boldly said what he meant and meant what he said.And I'll bet he'll sell you on it too.

Good collection of pieces
So far, I've had the pleasure of being an O'Rourke reader for this one and Parliament of Whores (more will no doubt follow). Republican Party Reptile isn't as good if you appreciate PJ for the way he does a detailed analysis which is still funny and controversial - as Parliament was a very organised, topical book. This one is a bit too much of a random knapsack for that.

That still makes it a great book as his pieces will drive home his views on drugs, politics, cars, drugs, international relations, teenaged girls, crime and fast cars. My favourites were Ship of Fools (a bunch of lefties and peaceniks cruise the Volga in the USSR during the Cold War, PJ is with them), Ferrari Refutes Decline of the West (PJ and boss get to deliver a Ferrari from NY to LA over several days of high speed cross country), Holiwood Etiquette (a great take on the neurosis etc) and How to Drive Fast on Drugs While Getting Your Wing-Wang Squeezed and Not Spill Your Drink (self explanatory I trust!)

So if you want to acquaint yourself with an earlier, more personal PJ, this book is good.

A Great Set of Humorous Essays
P. J. O'Rourke is an incredibly funny writer and incisive commentator on the contemporart scene.This collection of essays, while from a libertarian point of view, should be found enjoyable by all readers.In this book he skewers the Safety Nazis, pro-Soviet visitors to the USSR, the New York Review of Books, horrible Protestant hats, cocaine pirates, and other odd ducks in flight.P.J. O'Rourke is one of the funniest writers around, and I also recommend his PARLIAMENT OF WHORES and GIVE WAR A CHANCE.

Good essays
Most of the essays in this book are as funny and informative as most of O'Rourke's other works, and unlike "American Spectator's Enemies List", the book is well worth the cover price.

Mixed, with a few gems
This book is somewhat of a mixed bag. Unlike some of his other works, this has no central theme, but is instead a motley collection of articles written over the years for various and sundry publications on subjects ranging from why he hates bicycles to chasing down a story in the Bahamas about the involvement of high government officials in the drug trade. A few are real clunkers, such as a fictionalized account of his family life back in Ohio, titled "The King of Sandusky" or an over the top piece called "Just one of those days" in which he portrays an executive whose daily routine includes gunfights with his neighbors, raping his secretary and setting off bombs on the subway in order to get to work on time (so his boss won't have him shot). Most are OK, like the aforementioned bicycle piece, which he wrote for "Car & Driver" magazine back in the mid 80's. It was funny at the time, lampooning bicycling just about the time it was becoming trendy, especially with the eco-weenie set. In fact, this article brought howls of protest in the form of letters in the following issue, thus basically making his point appear all the more valid, namely, that too many bike nuts at the time suffered from an acute overdose of self righteousness accompanied by a chronic lack of a sense of humor. Like I said, it was funny at the time, but now seems rather dated.

Still, this entire effort was greatly redeemed by a few pieces that were absolutely spot on. One was "Ship of Fools" in which our intrepid reporter signed up for a cruise ship tour on the Volga in the USSR, based on an ad he'd read in "The Nation" magazine. He joins up with myriad groups of American leftists whose desire to see Soviet life in the best possible light overwhelms any qualities of observation or common sense they might happen to possess. These unfortunates are the targets of PJ's satire at its absolute best as he rips into them repeatedly for their blatant toadying on behalf of the Soviet system. Rarely has the banality of evil been described with such zest.

But even this pales in comparison to the book's crown jewel, namely a short article entitled simply "Ferrari refutes the Decline of The West". It is, on one level, a great road trip story, in which he and his boss drive from New York to LA in a brand new Ferrari 308GTS at speeds as high as 140 mph. Anyone who's ever lusted after exotic sports cars, or fantasized about driving on public roads at double or even triple the speed limit will love it on a purely visceral level, but that's only part of the pleasure, since PJ uses this drive as a metaphor for what makes Western Civilization, and America specifically, great. PJ describes an encounter with a black salesman in a Cadillac on the top of Hoover Dam in which the latter, after hearing their account of blazing through Arizona and New Mexico, looks at the Ferrari and says, simply, "Goddam, that's BEAUTIFUL!" PJ states, after finally turning over the car to a Hollywood studio "It was a glow that wouldn't fade. And I still felt good when I flipped the keys to the receptionist ...... And in fact I still feel good today." So will you after reading it, it is, in fact, worth the price of the entire book. ... Read more

Product Description
This book and CD set is the new standard in reptile and amphibian field guides. You'll see color photos of all the species in your state, and you can listen to the calls of frogs and toads. Enjoy photos of each species, detailed insets depicting scales, underbellies and tails, fascinating naturalist information, and more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

let this book slither into your life!
When I purchased this book (in October), it was intended to be given to my husband for a Christmas present.However, two days after receiving the book, we found a tiny four legged critter in the basement and we had no idea what it was. I went to my hidden Christmas present stash & pulled this book out.With a couple of flips of its pages, we had our answer - a red-backed salamander.The book joined its siblings (Birds and Trees) on our kitchen window sill.The book is easy to use with great photos.I'd recommend this book for anyone interested in identifying slithering and hopping critters.
PS We let the salamander go outside unharmed and my husband doesn't know he still has two more nature books left for under the tree!!

Michigan Field Guide--Reptiles & Amphibians
Good guide.The ability to view the distribution of each species throughout the state is helpful.While the Audio CD is nice, it would be more useful if it was an interactive CD.You are able to LISTEN to the calls using a CD player in the order they are presented, but you are not able to visually select a species, and listen to the associated call.That would have been more useful. ... Read more

Book Description
Since the publication of The Venomous Reptiles of LatinAmerica by Cornell University Press in 1989, scientific discoveries andtaxonomic changes have resulted in the addition of many taxa and species tothe herpetological fauna of the Western Hemisphere. This updated, heavilyrewritten, and greatly expanded version of that book now includes accountsof all 192 species of venomous snakes and lizards found in the WesternHemisphere. This two-volume set is illustrated with stunning colorphotographs, including portraits of venomous reptiles (many of which areunique in showing newly discovered species and views of male, female, andjuvenile individuals); images of snakebites, an important tool fordiagnosis and treatment; color vegetation and topographic maps;black-and-white photographs; line figures; and completely reviseddistribution maps.

Volume I includes a list of tables, preface, introduction, andregional/country accounts with related bilingual identification keys andvegetation and topographic maps. Genus and species accounts in this volumetreat the lizards, coralsnakes, seasnakes, and all the pitvipers exceptrattlesnakes; these accounts are accompanied by color photographs of eachspecies. Volume I also contains a complete index to both volumes.

Volume II includes descriptions of all known species of rattlesnakes. Italso features four chapters by experts on mimicry, evolution, and snakebitetreatment in tropical and temperate America. A glossary, literature-citedsection, and index serve both volumes. Color photographs portrayrattlesnakes, mimics, and the damage done by snakebite.

The Venomous Reptiles of the Western Hemisphere, Volumes I and II is anessential reference for all naturalists interested in herpetology--amateursimpressed by the beauty and complexity of venomous reptiles as well asprofessional herpetologists and their students conducting research in theclassroom, at the zoo, and in the field. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great resource for venomous reptile species
This is a must have for anyone involved with venomous reptiles species, whether it be in the private or professional areas of herpetology.Despite the high price, it is well worth it.This 2 volume set will be a great resource for me in my profession.

venomous reptiles of the western hemesphere
Very informative. A must for herp students/amateur and pro keepers

One of the best, most comprehensive books regarding New World venomous reptiles!
What can be said about this beautiful set of books that hasn't been said...it is a MUST HAVE for any self-respecting amateur or professional herpetologist!These books go into great deal regarding the biology and evolution of New World venomous reptiles.There are well over 1000 full color plates, along with detailed descriptions of each of the over 200 venomous reptile species in the Western Hemisphere.Do yourself a favor and pick these up!Well worth every penny.

The Venomous Reptiles of Western Hemisphere
The best herpetology book series ever written. Extensive information on species, potency, treatment, and even localities. You will not need any other books until new editions are released. Hundreds of amazing photographs. Up to 15-20 per species.

Half the Worlds poisonous herps a bargain
This is a damn fine book(s)! The VRWH is an updated and expanded version of the out-of-print 1989 classic The Venomous Reptiles of Latin America. Expanded because it now includes all of North America; that's half the planet!If you can find a copy of the older version it will run you several hundred dollars, making this new version a bargain. I have never met Dr. Campbell but I have been fortunate enough to have spent time with Lamar in tropical forests on a couple of trips. Aside from their professorships Lamar also does field and consulting work with film crews and leads ecotours for his company Greentracks. My limited experience indicates that Lamar is truly a jungle character and an excellent field biologist. Campbell's career is quite extensive with both of these men racking up decades of herp work.

Venomous reptiles do not make up a single taxonomic group of reptiles but instead are a fascinating mix of lizards and snakes that follow the same evolutionary path of using venoms and toxins in self-defense and food capture. Venomous reptiles, snakes in particular, are frequently discussed distinctly due to their import in human fears and interactions. The main topics of this treatise are the world's two venomous lizard species, the coral snakes, and the pit vipers. We get keys to the venomous reptiles of Canada and North America, in both English and Spanish, as well as tables of geographic distribution by species and distribution by vegetation types. This format continues for Mexico, Central America, Caribbean islands, and South America all by individual countries.

Volume 1 continues with the taxon accounts beginning with the Helodermids. The only poisonous lizards, the famous Gila monster and the Mexican beaded lizard, are introduced by their original type descriptions and relevant natural history quotes from the world's literature. We then get an historical background of etymology and research, which leads us into the known natural history of the animals.

This format continues with the coral snakes in 3 genera and more than 70 described species. This chapter opens with numerous tables and figures to assist in identifying and distinguishing the various and similar species. Only a fool would rely on the old dictum, "Red touch yellow, you're a dead fellow. Red touch black, it's ok Jack". There is a huge amount of natural history information including Spanish, local, and common names of the snakes. Just about everything relating to these snakes is mentioned, from habitat preference, feeding, breeding, physiology, and toxicology are discussed. There are distribution maps, scale patterns, line drawings, and black & white photos all illustrating important taxonomic traits.

The taxonomically more challenging pitvipers are then discussed. Campbell and Lamar currently recognize 12 genera with 111 described species. As all things taxonomic this recognition is in a constant state of flux as new information and data become available. There is a surprisingly open discussion to potential problems with the phylogenetic placement of these groups but there needs to be a baseline from which to work from and this current arrangement seems most valid. In fact this type of debate and historical placement and naming of groups is one of my favorite aspects of this book. As an amateur herper I only delve into these groups on occasion. Campbell and Lamar's discussions allow me to play catch-up on current taxonomic argument and naming without having to track down the myriad of published papers swaying favor back and forth.

Volume 2 begins with the rattlesnakes and closing with a number of non-venomous mimics as well as some less dangerously venomous snakes found in other families. Following are chapters on venomous snake mimicry, New World venomous snake evolution, and venom poisoning, toxinology, and symptomology contributed by various authors.

I don't have much in the way of critique for this book other to say that it seems apparent that this was written for a specific audience and that audience being biologists or fairly well versed dedicated amateurs. For example, the chapter on the lizards tells us there are 2 venomous species but does not immediately introduce them as Heloderma suspectum and H. horridum nor does it initially correlate the common names of Gila monster and beaded lizard, respectively. The introduction to these lizards details the generic distribution and speaks of their range overlap using common names and throughout the generic introduction there is alternating use of the common names and scientific names. Granted most herpetologists are familiar enough with these lizards to recognize what the authors are speaking of but neophytes may have difficulty distinguishing to which species they are referring too without flipping pages ahead to clear themselves.

The chapter on coral snakes mentions the important patterns of rings called monads and triads without fully explaining them. The glossary helps but without diagrams these definitions are fuzzy. Are these criticisms oversights or assumptions that the reader is already knowledgeable? I suspect the latter as the text is concise and well written.

Like the previous edition this one is sure to become a classic. Even though this text was finally released in April I have read several scientific journal articles citing this book. That should be ample testament to its research potential. The photos are wonderful and highly descriptive as well as artistic. One look at the covers, Volume 1 with my personal favorite coral snake Micrurus langsdorffi and Volume 2 with the awesome bushmaster Lachesis stenophrys, are enough to elicit excitement. And does Lamar look ever so distinguished in his author photo. As most of these scientific texts have limited marketing potential they are usually limited to first run prints of limited editions. If that is the case with this one, don't miss your chance to pick up a copy. At $150 it's a bargain. You'll kick yourself when you're later trying to chase down a used copy at twice that price. Did I mention the literature cited section is 100 pages?! ... Read more

Book Description

Violet, Klaus, and Sunny Baudelaire are intelligent children. They are charming, and resourceful, and have pleasant facial features. Unfortunately, they are exceptionally unlucky.

In the first two books alone, the three youngsters encounter a greedy and repulsive villain, itchy clothing, a disastrous fire, a plot to steal their fortune, a lumpy bed, a deadly serpent, a large brass reading lamp, a long knife, and a terrible odour.

In the tradition of great storytellers, from Dickens to Dahl, comes an exquisitely dark comedy that is both literary and irreverent, hilarious and deftly crafted. Never before has a tale of three likeable and unfortunate children been quite so enchanting, or quite so uproariously unhappy.

Ages 10+

Customer Reviews (3)

The ultimate county specific guide to Texas reptiles and amphibians
Dixon's guide is far better than the Peterson, Texas Monthly and Audubon guides when it comes to narrowing down the species/subspecies of a specific county.With many reptiles and amphibians this information alone can decide a difficult identification.Also, the bibliography section has led me to many in-depth reports and studies.If you are only interested in looking at paintings or uncharacteristic photographs of these animals, I encourage you to consult the usual field guides.However, if you are a professional or an amateur willing to put this book to work, there is no other Texas resource like it.

My only complaint is that we could sure use a 2005 update.Also, Dixon's insightful comments under the species accounts (updated in the 2000 edition)would be even better if they were more extensive.

A Ten-Foot Bibliography In a Handy Desk Reference
Dixon's book is an important research tool for professional and amateur herpetologists working with the amphibians and reptiles of Texas who need to 1) refer to a rich bibliography of about 3,500 references that is current as of April 1999 - more than half of which are new since the 1987 first edition, 2) have distribution maps for all the native Texas amphibians and reptiles based on more than 13,000 county records covering more than 110,000 localities, 3) keep current with taxonomic changes, 4) refer to identification keys, and/or 5) understand the problems facing the continued survival of these animals in the face of commercial collecting and habitat destruction.

The book is composed of four major sections - A) keys (40 pages covering salamanders, frogs and toads, amphibian larvae, turtles, lizards, and snakes), B) species accounts (115 pages), C) distribution maps (94 pages with 162 maps), and C) a bibliography (143 pages).There are also shorter sections covering an 86-term glossary, indices of common (about 425) and scientific (about 550) names, and a few (25) black and white photos.

While the book is not suitable, in my estimation, as a field guide; it is nonetheless an excellent, annotated, and comprehensive bibliographic reference for serious students of the full range of Texas amphibians and reptiles.Under each genus and species account, in addition to the comments and distribution maps, a sometimes lengthy list of bibliographic references from among the 3,500 cited in this book is shown for further look-up as desired.This is a very effective way of cross referencing, by species, a shelf of additional material that I grossly estimate to be perhaps ten feet or so wide.I suggest that the most effective use of this thorough and well-researched book is in conjunction with nicely illustrated and somewhat more self-contained guides to Texas herps such as Werler and Dixon's Texas Snakes, Conant's Field Guide to Reptiles & Amphibians of Eastern & Central North America (Peterson Field Guide Series), or Vermersch's Lizards and Turtles of South Central Texas - for any of which this book is a particularly excellent and useful companion.

As time goes on, the late-1990's content of Dixon's book will need to be updated again (the first edition of this work was released 13 years before the current edition) or it will cease to be as current and useful as it still is even today - some five years after its 2000 publication.On the other hand, even if not timely updated, this book will remain an excellent and vital snapshot in time of the literature and known distribution of the Texas herpetofauna.Anyone wishing to enhance or complete their knowledge of specific Texas herps should certainly refer to this book or consider adding this excellent, moderately priced book to their herp library depending upon how often they wish to refer to it.

As an afterword, it is interesting to note that most books - certainly those able to pass the rigors of marketing scrutiny that commercial publishers require today before a book is accepted for publication - don't need operating instructions; one just needs merely to read the book.Unfortunately, however, this book is different.Because of its rather unusual style and content, the appearance of the book is not "friendly", and at first blush it seems to contain a lot of arcane tabular data and mysterious code without adequate plain English text to "decode" it.Of course this is not the case. This tabular information and code is the meat of Dixon's book, being the wealth of the distribution data and the excellent, cross-referencedbibliographic references.One should try to visualize that with the use of this book there is a ten-foot long shelf of accompanying reference material stretched across a library table, and that this book is the codex that translates between that wealth of outstanding reference material and shorter, more user-friendly herp reference books.With this understanding, the true value of Dixon's book can be appreciated.

Just note that although the book has been in print for nearly four years as of the time of this writing, there has been only one short review of this book on Amazon.com, titled "Book Not For Amateurs", which states that "Unless you are a serious student of herpetology, do not buy this book.It does not contain photos or descriptions intended for the use of the general public, but tables and numbers that mean nothing to me. If you don't know what you are looking for, you are certainly not going to find it here. This was an expensive lesson for me to learn. I hope this prevents someone else from doing the same."

How sad to read that poor Amazon.com review: I can only hope it didn't discourage anyone who could have benefited from reading/usingDixon's fine book.Proof positive of the absolute need for this book review!
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Book Not For Amateurs
Unless you are a serious student of herpetology, do not buy this book. It does not contain photos or descriptions intended for the use of the general public, but tables and numbers that mean nothing to me.If you don't know what you are looking for, you are certainly not going to find it here.

This was an expensive lesson for me to learn.I hope this prevents someone else from doing the same. ... Read more

Book Description
The first in-depth textbook of its kind, this resource deals solely with the comparative anatomy and physiology of exotic speciessmall mammals, reptiles, and birds. For these commonly encountered species, it highlights clinical considerations for veterinary treatment. The book is heavily illustrated with clear line diagrams, radiographs, and color illustrations, explaining clearly the functioning of exotic species. ... Read more

Book Description
Amphibians and Reptiles in Colorado, Revised Edition, is an up-to-date, definitive summary of the distribution, conservation status, habitat, behavior, life history, ecology, and taxonomy of all salamanders, frogs, turtles, lizards, and snakes known to inhabit Colorado.It includes a description of the Colorado landscape, color photographs of each species, detailed range maps, identification keys, and tips on how to find, study, and photograph amphibians and reptiles.In addition, the author addresses the impact of human behavior on the region's herpetofauna, as well as the impact of Colorado's amphibians and reptiles upon humans.

Covering the western part of the central Great Plains, the southern Rocky Mountains, and the canyons, mesas, and plains of the upper Colorado River basin, Amphibians and Reptiles in Colorado will be a useful resource for adjacent states such as Wyoming and eastern Utah.With more than 200 color photographs to aid the reader in identification, this book is both an ideal reference work for those interested in the herpetofauna of the region and an invaluable field guide for hikers, amateur naturalists, and otheroutdoor enthusiasts. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Very useful
Very informative book, covering an extensive range of animals. Descriptions have plenty of detail. Not just visual ID book, but a reference book on what makes them tick.

The standard by which all others should be judged
This book is the yardstick that all other field guides should be measured against. Detailed and concise, Hammerson gives an excellent account of Colorado herpetofauna. I have two copies, one for my car and one for home.

ANatural History Treasure!
For those only mildly interested in snakes, lizards, frogs and other 'creeping things', this book will change your life's direction forever! The first edition of this book was a treat: a field guide to the herpetofaunaof Colorado, complete with photos, descriptions and distribution maps. Iwas highly pleased with it, and looking forward to the release of thesecond edition (due out in 1998, I think). The wait was worth it! This newedition contains not only the photos, some breathtaking in their beauty andclarity, and distribution maps, etc, but also pretty much everything onewould ever desire to know about herpetofauna in the Southwest. This booknow contains chapters on biogeography, examining all the Colorado habitats,conservation status and legislation, human interactions, viewing methods,and each Colorado species has its own and very thorough entry. As aprofessional herpetologist, this book is invaluable to me wherever I happento be, Colorado or no. As a complete amateur, this book would open up amysterious world! It's too heavy for a field guide, that's why there'sthose terrible Audubon things (although Patterson is good), but terriblyuseful for when you get home again. Buy this book, now! ... Read more