Simon Maddock

A richly illustrated guide to the world’s frogs that includes species from every familyWith more than 7,600 known species, frogs exhibit an extraordinary range of forms and behaviors, from those that produce toxins so deadly that they could kill a human many times over to those that can survive being frozen in ice. Frogs of the World is an essential guide to this astonishingly diverse group of animals. An in-depth introduction covers everything from the origins and evolution of frogs to their life cycles and defense strategies. Beautiful illustrations accompany profiles of species from each family, shedding invaluable light on the enormous range of appearance, habitats, and behavior of these marvelous creatures. Features hundreds of stunning color photographsCovers taxonomy, anatomy, locomotion, reproduction, diet, and moreDiscusses the conservation of the world’s frogsAn invaluable resource for herpetologists, naturalists, and anyone interested in amphibians

Snakes is a comprehensive introduction to the biology and natural history of this ecologically diverse and important group of animals. From garter snakes and vipers to boas and pythons, authors David Gower, Katie Garrett, and Simon Maddock showcase the variety and complexity of a group that includes more than four thousand living species. Snakes inhabit almost every part of the globe. While some live only in the water, others are found primarily in the treetops of rain forests or underground in deserts. This book reveals the myriad ways snakes have adapted to such diverse habitats and the workings of their unique behavior—how they are able to move so gracefully even without limbs, swallow meals several times the size of their heads, and survive without eating for months. Along the way, readers will also learn about the latest research on new species, taxonomic changes, and conservation status. With stunning color illustrations throughout, Snakes is an indispensable guide to these fascinating and awe-inspiring creatures.

Whether loathed, feared, admired or worshipped, snakes evoke stronger human reactions than almost any other animal. Moving gracefully without limbs, swallowing meals often several times larger than their own heads, and with many having venomous bites, they never fail to fascinate. From garter snakes and vipers to cobras, boas and pythons, Snakes describes the biology and natural history of this ecologically diverse and important group of animals. It highlights the amazing variety and complexity of this group that includes more than four thousand living species. Information on habitat, conservation status, and behaviour are also included to complete this comprehensive and fully illustrated introduction to the snakes of the world.