Book Description

This is a construction manual intended for both budding novices and experienced bird breeders alike. Comprehensively written and professionally illustrated, the book is loaded with construction details, diagrams and pictures, material lists, insulating and finishing techniques and tips, environmental concerns, simple step by step instructions and, essentially, everything you need to know about building everything you need for your birds.

Every plan and construction detail is compiled from years of hands on experience by the author in the raising and breeding of birds ranging from finches, canaries and larger softbills to most of the hardbills including (but not limited to) parakeets, budgies, and cockatiels, on up to amazons, cockatoos, macaws, and so on.There are projects ranging from simple houses, cages, breeding and nesting quarters to small, medium, large and grand scale aviaries, all designed and detailed with both the beginning hobbyist and serious fancier, alike, in mind.

Because many of the aviary designs are based on modular construction, they contain the flexibility to start small and expand or start big and go even bigger.The material & costs have been considered carefully, and the information contained in the book will allow anyone to calculate exactly what is needed before starting actual construction.This makes it possible for the builder to contact material suppliers in his/her local area, obtain prices, and, if necessary, scale back the design to meet the current budget (and make plans to expand in the future).The designs require inexpensive, non-specialized, easy to obtain materials assembled in a straight-forward manner with the minimum tools, and give you strong, durable housing that you can be tailor-made for a specific breed of bird or modified as needed.Included also are construction plans for feeders, waterers, nesting humidifiers, hospital quarters, shipping and carrying cages, electrical wiring, plumbing and ventilation plans for the aviary, plus a host of other ideas, construction tips and general information seldom found in other bird publications.

Copyrighted and published by the author in 1973, the book has sold over 20,000 copies worldwide through the years.Although the materials were reviewed and updated in 1996 to ensure up-to-date information, the content has remained the same.While the book was written for aviculturists, permission was granted in 1990 to an instructor at University of California Berkeley to use excerpts from the book in a class on general construction. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Why buy when you can build!
Details, details, details! This book may not be the shiniest hardback on the rack, but if you want to build anything for your birds, this is the ABC-123 primer of effective and inexpensive bird housing. Large, small, or 'in between' projects, this book can help you save time, money, and costly repairs by instructing the DIY guy/gal how to do it right the first time. Your birds will thank you!

How to Build Everythinh You need for your Birds
For a long time I looked for something easy to understand that gave me different styles for building an aviary for my birds. This is the first book I have found that even I can understand and follow.
It has different and innovative designs for just about any yard type. The instructions are easy to understand as are the illustrations. It even includes things I wouldn't have even thought of, much less considered.
I am very pleased with this book, as is my husband..and we are in the process of building our first aviary from one of the plans in the book. I and my birds will be delighted when it is completed.
If you are considering building an aviary, I highly recommend this book.

Not for the average suburban hobbyist
Potential purchasers of this booklet should be aware that the author is very serious about his birds. What he considers a "quite small" aviary, "for the aviculturist who has only restricted land area for his hobby", measures 11 by 16 feet. A "fairly large" one is 38 by 24 feet, complete with concrete foundation, plumbing, heating, electric lights, and 12 foot ceilings.
If, like me, you are looking for ideas for a small backyard aviary for a few canaries, you should look elsewhere. This publication contains plans for only 6 aviaries. Four are far too large for the average suburban lot, unless you are willing to knock down your house first, and the other two are so rudimentary that plans are hardly necessary.

Exceptional plans, better than what I expected.
I needed a means by which to build aviaries for my birds. I have built one out of the book, and it is great. I'm most impressed with the bird "hospital" cage.. It works exactly as described. My first impression when I received the book was not that great. The drawings were clear, directions clear, but I guess on some level I expected something more than what looked like a college study packet from Kinko's. The designs in this book and the subsequent modifications I've made to them to fit my needs have been outstanding. One needs only a modicum of building expertise, a knucklehead can put the designes together. Highly recommended... again, this is coming from someone who has actually built items off the plans in the book. It's not a glitzy book, but doggon functional.

Back to Basics or Simplicity Plus for the birds.
Considering the first printing was in 1973, revised in 1996, and its now 2002, this book still holds firm for the basic needs of birds. From the housing needs to the transportation needs. It is as complete as a book can be without being overwhelming for the beginner hobbyist. One aviary near me was built from this book. It covers all the birds needs from spring to winter. Its well constructed and easy access to clean. The other needs of the birds are also covered so you get the complete program in one book. Size and style changes for different birds is covered.
After reading the editorial reviews, the author was based in N America and the metric system was not used much in the 1970's, so I appreciate the simple measurement charts and layouts for building what is needed. I have one book to keep, one to share, and one to mark my progress in. Thank you Don LaRosa for such a great job of writing a Simplicity Plus Book !! ... Read more

Book Description

Antarctica has not always been a place of ice and snow. Once part of the supercontinent of Gondwanaland, it is believed to have enjoyed a warmer climate in which plants and land animals thrived. However, nowadays less than one percent of the surface is ice free, and at bedrock level the ice can be up to a million or more years old. In comparison, the Arctic consists entirely of pack-ice which breaks into ice floes in summer and floats on the Arctic Ocean.

While the ice gives rise to spectacular scenery, both on land and sea, these regions also have an astonishing variety of wildlife. The two Poles have few common species (apart from some birds and whales) but many unique endemic ones - polar bears, walruses and puffins in the north, penguins and elephant seals in the south.

The content will cover the following topics, among others:
- Geography and geology
- Climate and weather
- Ice, icebergs, glaciers and land formations
- History and exploration
- Wildlife and flora - how unique life has evolved in a very harsh environment
- Polar science - the scientists who live and work in Antarctica, the research bases
- Icebreaker shipping and tourism
- Politics and treaties and the interested parties, including the 1988 Minerals Convention
- The people of the Arctic
- Conservation and the future (specific Polar issues, such as melting of the ice caps and ozone depletion).

Both regions have long been associated with tales of great heroism in their exploration, and here too there are common links. Roald Amundsen was first to the South Pole and died in a rescue in the north (at that time his ship, the Fram, had been furthest south and furthest north). Frederic Cook, who lodged a false claim to being first to the North Pole, was the first to winter over in Antarctica, as part of a Belgian expedition. Nowadays, tourists can visit in cruise ships and see the almost impossible task the explorers set themselves.

Both areas are of concern ecologically. For several years there has been a hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica; one is now opening over the Arctic Circle. Ecologists watch both Antarctica and the Arctic for any signs of change that may have implications for the planet as a whole. They join scientists from all over the world conducting research in these unique conditions.

With interesting and authoritative text written by a team of international experts, accompanied by over a thousand superb photographs, this book will fascinate all with an interest in the Poles and their wildlife. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

AWESOME
I been looking for a whille for a great Antarctica book.
this is by far the best.
wall to wall photos topics on everything explorations,wildlife,marine life, you name it.
spectacular coffee table book dont miss.

it even covers the artic "north pole" also

Excellent book!
I am an Earth Science teacher and I have done research in Antarctica. The book has many wonderful photos and highly informative text about the geologic, oceanographic, atmospheric and biologic features of the polar regions. I recommend this book for anyone interested in these areas, especially teachers.

An excellent book on Antarctica!
I recently took a cruise to Antarctica and this book was in the ship's library. This is an excellent book on Antarctica and the pictures are fabulous! This makes a great coffe-table book! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Intresting introduction to the discus world
This is one of many books written on Discus by Bernd Degen, an very experienced discus breeder. The book is particularly suitable for the beginning Discus keeper and has excellent topics about discus care and selection. There is an rather good introduction to breeding too, showinh thechniques in detail. It is not an very detailed book, I think most Discus experts will miss more detailed information on breeding and on selection, specially about the wild types. But in general it is a good introduction to the novice in the Discus world. ... Read more

Book Description

This superbly illustrated book is the first created primarily for field identification of the 350 species of parrots of the world, from the mighty macaws to the diminutive pygmy parrots. Along with range maps for each species, the book includes information on the ecology, vocalizations, life cycle characteristics, and geographical variation of all species and on the conservation status of parrots that are threatened or endangered. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Unbeatable Reference on WILD Parrots
I was long wondering whether to buy this book or not, but it was well worth getting.
The species accounts are incredibly detailed and it must have been hard work to collect all that data.
I have field experience regarding parrots in Eastern Indonesia and found this book to be amazingly up to date about the status of species occuring there - so I trust it is similarly good for parrots in the rest of the world, too!

Not a good guide
I own parrots, I have friends who own parrots, and I have a brother who breeds parrots. I feel I can knowledgably say that this is not a good guide to parrots. It is full of mistakes both in the text and in the illustrations. I was very disappointed when I went through this book and, fortunately, I did not buy it but got it through the library. If you want info about this group of birds buy the standard, Forshaw's Parrots of the World, and just realize that the information about ranges and scientific names might be out-of-date but overall this is the better book by far. It deserves no stars.

A Terrific Guide to Parrots!
This is got to be one of the best guide books I have ever seen featuring over 350 different species of parrots on our planet. Being the bird lover that I am, and that includes domestic as well as wild birds, I own almost every book out there on birds, and I really love this edition by Tony Juniper & Mike Parr. It should really be called an encyclopedia because there is just so much information in these almost 600 pages. The 88 superb color illustrations of all the species by 5 different artists are so beautiful & true to life. As you already know by reading the editorial & other reviews, this book includes range maps of the species locations, their vocalizations, life expectancies, and much more fascinating information.

Remember, this is not a book about parrots in captivity, its information about birds in the wild. If you don't own a parrot and are thinking about one, this book is a definite help in learning about all the different species that are out there. The more knowledge you have the better it will be when you do decide to pick out that perfect companion parrot for yourself & family. Owning a companion parrot is a lifetime commitment that shouldn't be taken lightly. I know I researched many months before I found the perfect parrot for us. The love you receive in return from your parrot will amaze you. I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars. Highly recommended!

The Encyclopedia for Parrots
This is the first book I bought on Parrots and it is the only I would ever need to learn about the different types of Parrots in the world. It contains information and pictures on every type of Parrot from the African Grey to the rare Kakapo. I only wish they had an indication on the price range of each bird on the market for those who breed and sell. I would definitely recommend this book to the serious Parrot collector. A definite must on a Parrot lover's bookshelf and worth every dollar.

Excellent addition to any naturalist's library
This book belongs in the library of any naturalist or bird lover. The plates are wonderful with vivid colors that serve to identify the various species. The text provides concise information on natural history, a map of each species' range in the wild, its conservation status and other information. This book could be used in the field or as a comprehensive reference book on these remarkable birds. The authors must have poured a phenomenal amount of work into researching and writing this book. Buy one for yourself and another for a friend. ... Read more

Book Description

The first complete guide to the world's shorebirds, featuring all 211 species illustrated in their various plumages. The clear, accurate text describes each species in detail. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Best guide for identifying shorebirds
This book covers all of the shorebirds of the world with 1700 full-color paintings. There are lots of general tips on identifying shorebirds, and each bird is covered extensively. When I first picked up the book at an ABA Teen Birder convention in Colorado, a birder near me said "You have to buy that! Look at the Dunlin page!" Well, the Dunlin page is indeed a good example of this guide's excellence! There are 28 paintings on the page covering the different plumages of the bird and how it looks in flight and from different positions. The text on the adjacent page gives brief descriptions of the bird in each of those plumages and a world range map. It also redirects you to the all-text section of the book that has extensive information on identification, voice, habits, moments, description, age/sex, races, and measurements of the bird. I definitely recommend this book to any birder interested in the identification of shorebirds!

It's a truly wonderful book
I have purchased this book some five years back in a local book exhibition. Text is accurate especially for one who is interested in bird hunting. But the real feast is the breathtaking illustrations made by thesingle artist himself. His painstaking artwork for eachspecies,male&female, juvenile upperwings, lower wings are really fine.Only minus aspect is if the book would have been little bigger theillustrations would have also become bigger.

It's a truly wonderful book
I have purchased this book some five years back in a local book exhibition. Text is accurate especially for one who is interested in bird hunting. But the real feast is the breathtaking illustrstions made by thesingle artist himself. His painstaking artwork for each species,male&female, juvenile upperwings, lower wings are really fine. Onlyminus aspect is if the book would have been little bigger the illustrationswould have also become bigger.

Poor reprint quality ruins a great series
Make a plate-by-plate comparison of the new Waterfowl or Shorebirds guides with the original hardcover editions and you'll see that the sofcover illustrations look like cheap color photocopies. All of the subtlety anddetail that made the originals the best field guides of their kind has beenlost. Save your money for the used bookstores. ... Read more

Book Description

An easy to understand book on fossil shark tooth identification. Clear photos and simple terminology. This book is a must for any fossil collector. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Fossil Shark Teeth of the World
This book has many things going for it: the design, the amazing amount of reference photos, the portable size and it's beauty, all delivered in an easy readable and understandable format. I gave many copies to my nieces & nephews living in Virginia where there are a lot of fossils to be found.

Jaws uncovered
Being an amateur fossil collector I grabbed Joe Cocke's book to learn more about fossil shark teeth. I found the guide well organized and easy to use. You'll find pictures, the different accepted names used (scientific and common), a detailed description along with references to similar teeth and of course the age. Discovering what kind of tooth you actually found is a lot of fun. This is definitively a great guide.

A must for any fossil collector
The book "Fossil Shark Teeth of the World" by Joe Cocke is a very concise and well organized guide. The photos are clear and the descriptions of the teeth will help anyone identify their find.

One of the Better Guides, but not Comprehensive Enough
In this short booklet on fossil shark teeth of the world, author Joe Cocke has compiled a fairly detailed and descriptive guide for identifying shark's teeth. Well illustrated, this book a great beginner's guide for anyone interested in trying their hand at identifying those teeth they keep finding on the beach. Unfortunately for the professional, this guide just isn't quite comprehensive enough in that it does not provide a good set of photographs showing the range of variation in the teeth from each species, nor does it compare and contrast similar looking teeth from different species so that the layman can be sure to get them right. In all, however, this booklet is a wonderful guide worthy of study by both kids and adults

Excellent Guide to Fossil Shark Teeth
Finally a very comprehensive shark tooth identification book that covers over 85 species and covers them correctly. I found very few mistakes of any kind in this book when it comes to ID, nicknames, ages, localities, etc. which is almost never done! Each identified species shows accompanying photos (several of each species showing different positions usually) and is written in plain English so it can be easily understood by amateurs. Plus it's small size will enable it to be well-utilized in the field unlike most ID books. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (3)

a bird in the hand...
An outstanding reference. I especially enjoyed the "honey glazed ruby-throated dessert".

a guide book for the hummer lover
A great book for anyone who wants to attract and feed hummingbirds, it's packed with all the basic information you'll need, starting with choosing the right feeder for your area, the sugar solution to put in it, and the maintenance and cleaning of it, which the Stokes say: "We can't emphasize enough how important it is to take feeder maintenance seriously", as any mold or bacteria can be "risking the health, and possibly the lives", of these jeweled wonders of the bird family...and they show you the easy steps to be taken to keep the feeders clean.

There are also 6 pages on orioles, who can be seen sometimes at hummer feeders. It gives a "quick guide" to 8 species of these beautiful birds, with lovely photos to help identification. It also shows how one can set up feeders specifically for orioles, and the sugar solution to use, which is slightly different from that of the hummer mixture.

Chapters on the "Hummingbird Habitat" and "Gardening", give you a list of plants and flowers that hummers like the most, by geographical region. "Amazing Facts" truly is amazing. Among the many fascinating things you'll learn is that their heart can beat 1,260 times per minute, but can sometimes slow down to 50 beats per minute at night to conserve energy. There are other chapters on "Myths", "Baby Hummingbirds", and "Photographing Hummingbirds".

Nearly half the book is devoted to the identification of the different species, with photos, maps, behaviour patterns, and much more. Once you've identified your visitors, you'll get to know the idiosyncrasies of the species, and it's sure to add to the joy and delight of watching these miraculous little creatures.

The Stokes stroke their stuff...
I was so impressed with the depth of the study, and the over-all content of this book, and yet it is very comprehensive. I am a new Hummer-lover, and I definitely recommend this colorful book to the newcomer because it is so thorough. I was able to easily identify the species that visit my deck every morning, and discover the variety of flowers they prefer, and even predict their behavior. This book is a veritible wealth of information on common and rare Hummers that has made me appreciate these beautiful and delicate little creatures even more that I did before! What an awesome Creator we have! ... Read more

Amazon.com

When an animal is truly a family member, you want to communicate with itas completely as you do with human members, but how? Amelia Kinkade is here to show you, with plenty of tools for direct and serious conversation with your four-legged friends. Foes of anthropomorphism, beware: if you don't assume that animals have similar emotional responses to ours, you're liable to find this book a bunch of hooey. Kinkade's techniques involve various methods of telepathy, from sending specific questions like "what's your favorite food?" to receiving emotions like sadness or joy. Her years of experience working with pet owners and rescue services give Kinkade a wealth of fascinating stories. Conversations relayed between unhappy animals and their humans can be instructive to an amazing point--one horse knew he needed an iron supplement, while a cancer-ridden dog apologized to his owner for being "such a burden."Simple ideas seem relatively easy to trade. When leaving for a weekend trip, it's easy to observe an agitated dog or kitty. Calmly relaying facts about how long you'll be gone and what she should expect while you're gone can go a long way toward solving everything from tummy upsets to malicious shredding of furniture. More advanced students of Kinkade's methods can visually find specific causes of pain in animals and listen to what they need from their humans to heal. As with other books on telepathy, you won't find research or studies here. But if you have an open mind and willingness to experiment, Straight from the Horse's Mouth can open up satisfying new dimensions in your relationships with all animals. --Jill Lightner ... Read more

Reviews (27)

A Rare Gem Filled with Wisdom, Heart, and Practical Tools!
As an author, speaker, and publisher, lots and lots and LOTS of books come before me. All kinds of books of many different qualities. It takes a really good book with wisdom, heart, and writing skill to get my attention. Straight From the Horse's Mouth really got my attention. This is a rare find! Amelia Kinkade has a gift. She can read animals' minds -- and souls. If you are a pet lover like me, you have probably spent a lot of time wondering what your dog or cat or horse or bird is really thinking and wanting. Wouldn't it be wonderful to be able to ask your animal friend questions and get answers, just as you would from another person? Maybe even better answers, since animals, unlike humans, are honest ALL the time. This book is a rare gem, not just for the fascinating stories Amelia shares about her own experiences with animal communication, but because she teaches you how to talk to your animal yourself. I tried the simple exercises, and they really work. Using these techniques, I asked my dog some questions about who he likes to stay with when I am gone, and he told me. Actually, I just listened. I realized that he is always broadcasting his intentions; I just have to be open to hear what he is saying. Now when we are at various choice points I tune in to him, and I get some pretty clear information. We have a whole new depth of relationship! When I read material related to psychology or spirituality, I feel for the ring of truth. The moment I opened up Straight From the Horse's Mouth, I felt that resonance loud, clear, and deep. Amelia has done her homework. She has practiced her art for a long time and built some very intuitive skills. There is no substitute for the genuine article. Most valuable to me, Amelia writes from the heart. She comes from a place of deep sincerity and total honesty. As a person, she is transparent -- nothing to hide, no pretensions; what you see is what you get. How refreshing! I trust her words and her work. She is here to learn and serve. Plus, she's a hoot! I found myself chuckling time and again at her stories. She happens to be a great writer, mostly for her utter naturalness. She has a remarkable command of language and metaphor, which keeps the book moving and absorbing. Even if I weren't interested in animal communication, I would find this to be a remarkable manual for psychic and soul development. Don't be limited by the title or the subject matter -- there is profound wisdom and insight here. You probably get the idea by now. I can't say enough wonderful things about this book. I would give it more stars than five if they let me. I am recommending it to all of my friends who have pets and love animals. I would recommend Straight from the Horse's Mouth, four paws up, to anybody who wants to develop their ability to find love, beauty, compassion, and healing in the natural world, including yourself.

*ATTENTION ANIMAL LOVERS*
I do have to say, if I could rate this book with more than five stars, I most definetly would...I have read Amelia Kinkade's Straight from the Horse's Mouth: How to Talk to Animals and Get Answers cover to cover and it was such a wonderful inspiration to all who love and adore their animal friends...Amelia Kinkade certainly breaks it down to you on how to do animal communication and it seems simple enough...She adds wonderful stories from her experiences that will make you laugh, cry, and really make you think...I have to say my favorite part even though it was in the end, was the Epilouge: Rodney's Command Performance...I read it over and over...It made me cry yet feel hopeful, but I won't spoit it for those who haven't read this book...But all in all, it's very inspirational and I'm so greatful this book is avaliable to help us better understand and get closer with our animal friends.

The Most Amazing Book I've Ever Read!
Never before have I finished a book and immediately turned around and started reading it again. It's that great! Amelia's style of writing has the reader enthralled and you can't wait to read more. I laughed and I cried at her stories. I'd always been more of a "dog person" before but after reading about her cats I have much more respect for them. This book should be compulsory reading in all schools. Can't wait for Amelia's next book.

Straight talk for us confused humans
What can I say, this book kicks arse! I've been to Amelia's interactive 2 day lectures, and would NEVER have thought of attending had I not read her book and thirsted for more! The book is dotted with medetations to help us break down our intellectual processes, so we become open to what our animal friends are telling us. It flows with stories from Amelia's life and keeps you fully entertained with her wit while jerking a tear or two from your eyes. If you are interested in animal communications-and who wouldn't be?-This book is for you.

This is an amazing guide.
I have worked with animals for over 15 years and have been told that I had a gift of communicating with animals to calm them.
A friend recommended this book to me because of watching me work with animals,and after using this I have been able to talk with my clients pets.
I know it sounds crazy, I don't have actual conversations but I see pictures and occassionally get some words.
I wish I had room enough to tell all the things that I have been able to convey to their owners.
If anyone would like actual situations please e-mail and I'd be more then happy to share them.
This has been the first book to help me understand exactly what the animals want or are going through.
I would recommend this book to anyone that wants or has that special connection with animals, it's the most amazing feeling when you can think about the animal and have him show you what he would like to do or what is bothering him. ... Read more

Book Description

A comprehensive field guide for aquarists, divers and naturalists, with detailed full color photographs of hundreds of species, encompassing many of the invertebrates one is likely to encounter on and near reefs around the world. This book defines the invertebrate groups and gives brief information about their structure and natural history. Hundreds of species of invertebrates are described.

In addition the author gives information about similar-looking species, range, habitat, food requirements, special considerations, toxicity, hardiness and compatibility issues, and discusses their suitability for reef aquariums and captivity in general.

This book is the essential guide for all aquarists who want to make the right choices when stocking an aquarium with invertebrates or purchasing invertebrates for a reef aquarium. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Excellent book for fast viewing
This Julian Sprung book is just perfect for the new and the old aquarists. It is a great reference book and may be very helpful in some 'critical' moments.

Another Must have book!
In addition to the Corals: A Quick Reference Guide by Julian Sprung, the second book in the series, Invertebrates: A Quick Reference Guide, is another beautiful and comprehensive reference book, essential for all aquarists and divers. The book is well thought out and has beautiful photos of more than 500 specis of marine invertebrates.

Recommendable for any reefkeeper
Many invertebrate recognition books are made for divers and therefore have a different approach than a book for aquarists should have. This one has been made by an aquarist and it was made for aquarists. That's why it helps to find out very quickly whether a certain invert is helpful or dangerous in your tank, and whether it makes sense to buy that critter or not. Very recommendable for any reefkeeper.

Book Two A Success
I can't even begin to explain how excited I was to see this book was released. Outstanding photography of living species shown as they were intented to look. Current and relevant information from a known authority. What a great resource. Keep up the great work Julian and Danny!

General Review
This book was written by one of the most respected saltwater aquarists in the field. I was also attracted to this book because it was just published in June of this year. In general the pictures are very good, as is the general information. The problem is that he dicusses many of the more common invertebrates and yet manages to leave out some of the more readily available organisms that people will often see at petstores. For example, there is no mention of sebae anemones. The book gives a ranking on how well the organism is likely to thrive in captivity as well as its hardiness. I have found some of his rankings to be in constrast to my experience, but I have been in the hobby for a much shorter period of time. The author also does a good job at supplying many of the common names for the organisms. I was expecting more of a "pocket guide" format- similar to the one by Scott Michaels on Marine Fish-so I was a little disappointed, but I did pick up some tips and can recognize some organisms that I had not seen. ... Read more

Book Description

CRC Handbook of Marine Mammal Medicine, Second Edition is the only handbook specifically devoted to marine mammal medicine and health. With 66 contributors working together to craft 45 scientifically-based chapters, the text has been completely revised and updated to contain all the latest developments in this field. Building upon the solid foundation of the previous edition, the contents of this book are light-years ahead of the topics presented in the first edition. See what's new in the Second Edition:oMarine mammals as sentinels of ocean healthoEmerging and resurging diseasesoThorough revision of the Immunology chapter oDiagnostic imaging chapters to illustrate new techniquesoQuick reference for venipuncture sites in many marine mammalsoUnusual mortality events and mass strandingsoNew topics such as a chapter on careersoWider scope of coverage including species outside of the United States and Canada Filled with captivating illustrations and photographs, the Handbook guides you through the natural history of cetaceans, pinnipeds, manatees, sea otters, and polar bears. Prepared in a convenient, easy-to-use format, it is designed specifically for use in the field. Covering more than 40 topics, this one-of-a-kind reference is packed with data. The comprehensive compilation of information includes medicine, surgery, pathology, physiology, husbandry, feeding and housing, with special attention to strandings and rehabilitation. The CRC Handbook of Marine Mammal Medicine, Second Edition is still a must for anyone interested in marine mammals. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

great up-to-date resource
This book contains articles that are current and relevant to the field of marine mammal medicine and is great for the researcher as well as the student. It's a great compilation of some of the best work in the field.

This is a great book... if it is something you need!
THis is an exceptional book if you are interested in understanding the health and care of marine mammals. If you aren't interested in these areas then it is probably not a good choice of reading material! ... Read more

Book Description

Demonstrates that the earliest humans evolved not as hunters but as prey species, based on evidence from fossil and living primates

Although "Man the Hunter" is a popular description of our ancestry, the central importance of hunting is firmly fixed only in the archeological record of relatively recent human history. Man the Hunted argues that primates, including the earliest members of the human family, have evolved not as hunters but as the prey of any number of predators, including wild cats and dogs, hyenas, snakes, crocodiles, and even birds of prey. Eyewitness accounts, data collected by the authors, and the published reports of naturalists establish the astonishing extent to which living monkeys, lemurs, apes, and even humans fall victim to a wide variety of predators, some of which even specialize in the consumption of primates. Additionally, the fossil record demonstrates that primates have been prey for millions of years, a fact that necessarily shaped the evolution of our earliest ancestors in body and behavior. Skillfully combining information from a number of lines of evidence, Man the Hunted casts an entirely new light on the natural history of primates and the evolution of fossil and modern humans. ... Read more

Book Description

This third edition covers all the species of reptiles and amphibians found in western North America. More than 650 full-color paintings and photographs show key details for making accurate identifications. Up-to-date color range maps give species' distributions. Important information on conservation efforts and survival status rounds out the detailed species descriptions. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great update to a great field guide
Stebbins does it again. As a biologist who works throughout southern California I find this book indispensable. It is a vast improvement to the last edition (which was very good to begin with) with lots of color photos, many more color plates and the range maps are great too, again with color. It has revised the taxonomy of many species and included a many of the lastest subspecies designations. This book is easy to use from the novice to the advanced and should be in any nature enthusiasts library. ... Read more

Book Description

Brimming with stories, practical wisdom, and expert guidance, the updated and expanded third edition is for bird lovers, for nature lovers, and especially for families who want to know their feathered neighbors better. Combining scientific insight and careful personal observation with a delightful and witty narrative style, Calvin Simonds gives enthusiasts a peek into the world of eleven favorite North American birds: swallows, blue jays, chickadees, song sparrows, house sparrows, phoebes, mockingbirds, crows, red-winged blackbirds, and robins - with an all-new chapter on hummingbirds. Simonds teaches readers how to really observe birds - how to interpret the "caws" of crows, recognize blue jays from their facial expressions, understand the flight patterns of swallows. Readers will be enthralled as they eavesdrop on a group of sparrows trading songs in a "hootenanny," feel the firm, dry grip of a chickadee's claws on their fingers and tramp through a summer meadow to visit a phoebe. Idiosyncratic and ever-interesting, these are the birds that brighten our lives as they dart and dawdle in our backyards, gardens, and parks. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

I recommend for rookie bird watchers
By focusing on common birds (birds that are common in North America, that is), this book gives readers a very good chance of being able to go somewhere nearby and engross themselves in watching some of the birds they just read about.It is also a rather engaging, quick read and contains many interesting kernels of information.This combination makes it the most un-intimidating introduction to bird watching I have read.Wildlife watching is often frustrating, but searching for these birds is rewarding whether one lives in the country or the city.This is not one of those books that overwhelm readers with lists and pictures of species beginners will probably not see.Simonds' love of birds is apparent, even though he digresses a bit too much.

Although the book does contain an index, information would be easier to find if the chapters were subdivided.In addition, a few references are recommended in the last chapter, but I wished the book had a full bibliography.

Essays that surprise and intrigue.
I am not a birder nor much of a gardner, but I love this book. Birders and gardners I know also love it. The woman in the campsite next to mine in a Maine campground explained to me the lives of the osprey nesting nearby.When I tried to show her that I knew a thing or two about birds that I had gleaned from Calvin Symonds, she came back with "Oh yes, I have that book at home and enjoy rereading it." My mother who at 97 can still tell you the names of all the birds at her many birdfeeders keeps a copy of Symonds on the crowded table next to the recliner where she spends her days.

To understand what the birds around you are doing you need to see them, identify them, observe them over a period of time, and know how to interpret what you see. I often fail steps one and two and do even worse on steps three and four. Calvin Symonds moves through all four steps with grace and humor. He regards the everyday birds of his New England farm with such affection that he cedes his garage to swallows for four months every summer.He makes out the cacaphony of the blue jays as an animated assertion of family ties and draws useful life lessons from activity that many find annoying and even criminal.

The gentle expressive essays repeatedly surprise and intrigue me as they explore benieath the surface of what eleven familiar birds - from mockingbirds to crows - do. Symonds shows the reasons for their actions and describes the debates among scientists about how to explain what they observe. I hope one day he will extend the list of birds he has made familiar and fascinating to at least one non-birder.

Discover the Secrets
When I discovered and read the book "Private Lives of Garden Birds" I felt as if I had been given a very special gift that enhanced and broaden my understanding of the nature that surrounds my everyday life.Like many, I love birds and enjoy observing them in my back yard and have often wondered what is really going on with all the fluttering and chattering. With this book, Calvin Simons has given everyone who enjoys birds a head start in understanding the dynamics that are being played out between the birds. All the social interaction, the whys and wherefore, and even the "hootenanny" is explained in a way that make you feel as if Calvin Simons is sitting with you in your back yard having a conversation about your birds.

I especially enjoy the layout of the book which gives each of the several birds described an entire chapter, allowing the reader to become very familiar with that species. After reading about a particular bird it is easy to focus on that bird alone and understand more clearly the dynamics and social interactions that are going on in your back yard.

After reading this book one cannot help but discover all sorts of secrets about the bird activities going on in the neighborhood. I learned that I had a Phoebe living near me that had previously gone unnoticed. This is a wonderful book to give as a gift to anyone who has a bird feeder because the fluid style of writing and clarity with which a complicated topic is explained, makes this book a pleasure to read.

Mildly edifying quick read
Private Lives of Garden Birds attempts to describe the behaviors of a number of common birds of the eastern U.S.It succeeds to some extent; there are a number of interesting tidbits regarding these birds.This fact and the fact that the book is a very quick read make it worth reading.One should not expect too much from this little volume, however.It is written in a quirky style, in that the authors are very unfocused on the subject at hand.Unfortunately, they are apparently under the delusion that the reader is interested in their opinions on a number of unrelated subjects, most notably their proselytizing regarding organic gardening.In addition, one wonders how much to trust the book's assertions, both because of the haphazard approach and because there are some obvious errors in the book.For instance, while the lead author styles himself as a natural historian, he believes that the glaciers retreated from Massachusetts hundreds of thousands of years ago, when in fact the peak of the last glaciation was only 20,000 years ago.A final caveat is that much of the behavior described in the book varies with locality, so that it may be decreasingly useful the farther one is from Massachusetts.Still, it is nice to see a book describing the behavior of birds, as opposed to simply identifying them. ... Read more

Book Description

This beautiful and definitive guide brings together the world's lead leading expert on North American trout and salmon, Robert Behnke, and the foremost illustrator in the field, Joseph Tomelleri.

North America is graced with the greatest diversity of trout and salmon on earth. From tiny brook trout in mountain streams of the Northeast, to cutthroat trout in the rivers of the Rockies, to Chinook salmon of the Pacific, the continent is home to more than 70 types of trout and salmon. How this came to be, how they are related, and what makes them unique -- and so breathtaking -- is the story of Trout and Salmon of North America.

The more than 100 illustrations of trout and salmon by Joseph Tomelleri showcased here exhibit a genius for detail, coloration, and proportion. Each portrait is made from field notes, streamside observations, photographs, and specimens collected by the artist. The result is a set of the most accurate and stunning illustrations of fish ever created. Robert Behnke has distilled 50 years of his research and writing about trout and salmon in completing this book. No one understands better than Behnke the diversity and conservation issues concerning these fishes or communicates so lucidly the biological wonders and complexities of their particular beauty.

Also included are more than 40 richly detailed maps that clearly show the ranges of populations of trout and salmon throughout North America.

An irresistible delight for anyone who appreciates natural history, Trout and Salmon of North America is a master guide to the natural elegance of our native fishes. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Tomelleri and Behnke
This book is a 2002 collaboration between the most knowledgeable trout/salmon biologist and the best illustrator! Tomelleri is the all time out standing trout artist. There are several books out that attempt to do a similar compendium like 'Trout' by James Prosek which is also excellent, and a great addition to your library. But the synergy between Tomelleri and Behnke is unbeatable. It a sad description of sub species of Salmo lost forever, but does offer a ray of hope for some species. If you have any interest in N.A. Salmonids this is a must buy. It is written for the layman: no high level back ground in Ichthyology is needed to enjoy it. Buy it - you will not be disappointed.

Greatest fish book ever
This is the most interesting book in my collection. I am shocked that since this volume has become avaiable, only a single review has been submitted. Being a fisheries Ph.D student and long time salmonid fanatic, this is the book I've been waiting for my whole life.
The design of this volume is great. Have any of you ever looked at a book's layout? This masterpiece should be studied in a graphics design course.
I specialize in scientific illustration (black & white technical stuff). Much of my work has been published in Dr. Balon's: Environmental Biology of Fishes and I dare say I have an eye for what's good within this field. While Tomelleri's early salmonids (see Fishes of the South central USA) are okay at best, the ones featured in this book are out of this world. Strangely, he includes some of his earliest works(p.71, p.261). These must have been added for sentimental reasons and have little value being included with the otherwise superb lateral views.
I find it strange to see the reaction of people when I show them particular pictures from this book. They seem to get equal enjoyment from all the illustrations, mainly because of the flamboyent salmonid colors. No one picks up on the astounding progression in style/technique that Tomellerri has gone through over the years. Yet it is very evident indeed. No one has pointed out that while all the renderings are lovely, stuff like the pink salmon on p.43-45 represent the technical limit of what can be achieved with color pencil realism. My favorite? The Presidio trout on p. 121. I hate to say it, but the pictures (and book overall) are too good. Anyone can pick up a leica and enjoy its smooth mechanical functions but how many of us can appreciate the beauty of German industrial design and fine craftsmanship? This book suffers a similar fate. It will sell because we all love pretty trout, end of story.
I can't stop reading and looking at this book. I fall asleep next to it and in the morning, look through it some more. Our family collects antique books and my love for books extends into other fields as well. This is the greatest of all my prize posessions.
I enjoyed Dr. Benke's text. He is able to convey scientific information in a style that appeals to naturalists, fishermen and those of us within the sciences. I first came across his writings in the magazine Trout and like many of you, I fell in love with his AFS book on trout of western North America. Maybe the fact that I am fascinated by phenotypic plasticity and morphological variation within species has placed me in a situation to better appreciate what this book has tried to accomplish, but I hope not. I only wish that some of you can feel what I experienced when I first received my copy of Trout & Salmon of North America. This book beautifully articulates the complex and fascinating world of salmonids through stunning pictures and wonderful text.

An excellent introduction to North American salmonids
Dr. Behnke is one of the foremost authorities on the taxonomy of Salmonidae. I can think of no one who has done more to save fisheries management from the one-size-fits-all mindset that has dictated the stocking thousands of miles of streams containing healthy populations of native trout with non-native hatchery stocks of rainbow trout. The policy of planting poorly adapted (and often diseased) hatchery fish on top of healthy populations of native trout, caused the outright extinction or local extirpation of native subspecies and stocks of trout throughout the western United States and Canada. Many of these fish had unique life histories that enabled them to successfully exploit habitats that hatchery rainbows cannot successfully utilize (without the continuation of massive and expensive stocking programs). At the very least, they represent a diversity form and life history that would be impossible to replace with the limited gene pool available in hatchery strains. Many of these fish, such as the golden trouts, interior cutthroats, and redband rainbows are living jewels, breathtakingly beautiful and perfectly adapted to their respective environments. The loss of any of these remarkable fish would diminish any person who cares about our natural heritage.

Professional biologists, such as myself, may have wished for a little more technical information than the book contains, such as was available in his 1965 PhD Thesis, A Systematic Study of the Family Salmonidae with Special Reference to the Genus Salmo or his 1992 mongraph, Native Trout of Western North America. Dr. Behnke has published a continuing series of articles on salmonid taxonomy, distribution, and life histories in Trout, the journal of the Trout Unlimited organization. He has used these articles to bring the importance of preserving the diversity of life histories present in each species to the attention of anglers and managers throughout North America. Whether a population is a species, subspecies, 'race,' or 'stock' has little meaning from a management standpoint, if it displays unique life history traits that enable it to exploit habitat extremes or niches that are inaccessible to other populations or hatchery stocks. As with agricultural crops, the loss of wild genotypes can never be fully compensated for and adaptations to local environments make many of these stocks the only fish that can successfully maintain naturally reproducing populations adapted to local disease organisms and environmental conditions.

I was hoping the book would include appendices that described all of the new technical information available about the family Salmonidae. Instead the book is a wonderful publication for the general public, containing a though and highly readable description of the wonderful diversity of form and life history represented by North American salmonids. Combined with Joseph Tomelleri's incredibly detailed and lifelike representative illustrations, this is a welcome addition to the library of any angler or biologist.

In addition to his contributions to the establishment of saner management policies for native fish, Dr. Behnke described or collaborated in describing literally dozens of distinctive populations of salmonids. Many of these fish; such as the Sheepheaven Creek Redband, Humbolt River cutthroat, fine-spotted Snake River cutthroat, and Whitehorse cutthroat; were simply described as a new subspecies without assigning a subspecies name to them. Dr. Behnke generally only assigned new scientific names, where a species or subspecies designation was incorrect, and a prior name already existed. Hence, the Yellowstone cutthroat became Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri instead of O. c. lewisi and the interior Columbia/Fraser River rainbow became O. mykiss gairdneri, rather than O. gairdneri. This brings me to one of my few quibbles about the book.

In the 1995 book, Many Rivers to Cross by M.R. Montgomery (a Boston Globe columnist), the author included the descriptive information from Dr. Behnke's monograph, Native Trout of Western North America, under the name Oncorhynchus clarki behnkei. I'm a fisheries biologist, rather than a taxonomist, but as I understand the process of naming a new species (or subspecies), the name should accompany a species account that includes a description of the species and information on the collection where the type (type specimen) is or will be deposited (perhaps Mr. Montgomery included all of Dr. Behnke's original description in his book and this is sufficient). This information is usually published in a journal or book (but I'm not sure if it has to be published by a professional taxonomist in a professional publication). The first name assigned has priority. If a non-professional can assign a name in any form of publication, then I believe that Ernest Schwiebert beat Mr. Montgomery to the punch by a couple of decades in his 1978 book, Trout, when he assigned the name Salmo carmichaeli (after a Wyoming tackle shop owner) to the Jackson Hole cutthroat and included an excellent illustration of a fine-spotted cutthroat from Blacktail Spring Creek in Wyoming. While its true that Schwiebert gave it species status, the same can be said of the rainbow trout, which was originally named Salmo gairdneri before it was reassigned the name Oncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri (gairdneri was assigned to the interior Columbia/Fraser River subspecies). Will some taxonomist please name a trout after Dr. Behnke?!! He certainly deserves the honor. It would be a nice gesture if a committee of taxonomists would decide which of Dr. Behnke's many unnamed subspecies of Oncorhynchus most deserves subspecies status and assign it the subspecies name, behnkei. The fine-spotted Snake River cutthroat seems like a fine fish to name after Dr. Behnke, but I'm sure any of the salmonids he has described over his long career would serve as a fine honor. ... Read more

Book Description

Quantitative methods and mathematical modelling are of critical importance to fishery science and management but, until now, there has been no book that offers the sharp focus, methodological detail, and practical examples needed by non-specialist fishery scientists and managers, and ecologists. Modelling and Quantitative Methods in Fisheries fills that void. To date, methodology books in fisheries science have been limited to cookbook approach to problems; simple compilations; or expositions in which either too much theory or insufficient methodological detail is given. The text is organized into three sections: an introduction to modelling in fisheries and ecology, a straight methodology section covering a range of methods, and a section focusing on specific fields in fisheries science. This book is timely as it addresses a topic of recent debate in fisheries and ecology, describing and comparing the uses of Least Squares, Maximum Likelihood, and Bayesian quantitative methods.Designed as stand-alone units, each chapter provides examples from both classic and recent literature and comes with dedicated Excel spreadsheets that permit you to delve into every detail of the analysis. All of these spreadsheets serve as active examples, which can easily be modified and customized and can be used as templates for analyzing your own data. The spreadsheets permit you to learn at your own speed and cover the simplest linear regression to the more complex non-linear modelling using maximum likelihood.Data analysis and modelling are best learned by doing and not just by reading. This book illustrates, step by step, the analyses it covers. More detailed in terms of introductory quantitative methods and modelling as applied to fisheries than any other book available, Modelling and Quantitative Methods in Fisheries gives you the advantage by supplying the full details of the analysis so that understanding the material is a matter of following the book. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A primer for all of us
In my opinion, Malcolm Haddon has managed a "tour de force" with this book. He not only covered most of the modern methods of quantitative analysis and modelling in fisheries science but he did so in a clear and relatively simple language. His book is approachable to all biologists with a basic understanding of mathematics and statistics. Yet, he managed to cover both the theoretical underpinnings of the methods and the practical aspects of their use (options, pitfalls ... etc.). In addition, the book gives MS Excel examples of the methods which should allow those of us who are not programmers to fully appreciate the methods by using them interactively. The Excel spreadsheets are also available for download on two web sites. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (8)

A Good Beginner's Introduction to Non-Insect Arthropods
I was introduced to the early "Golden Guides" in the 1950s. My very first book on insects was in this series and I wore out numerous copies of the various titles. Of these I have always especially admired H. W. and Lorna Levi's "Spiders and Their Kin." This little guide had (and to a large degree still has) the most complete systematic treatment of any of the taxa covered in the "Golden Guide" series. Few books were available on these fascinating creatures when this work was originally published and "Spiders and Their Kin" was a considerable improvement. The drawings of spider eye arrangements were especially helpful for identification.

Unfortunately time does not stand still and the reprinted version of this book is somewhat behind in its treatment of spider families. There has been some attempt by St. Martin's Press to revise the classification (the sac spiders are shown to belong to several families), but some of the other families have also undergone major changes (e.g. "Ctenizidae" is now at least three families) and "brown spiders" (a name I really do not like- I prefer "violin spiders" as more descriptive) are now members of the Sicariidae. Neither of the last two changes made it into the revised book, either because they occurred after the corrected copy was submitted or because they were overlooked. The current revision does include the statement that urocteids and oecobiids have been united under the Oecobiidae - as it turns out, having a cribellum is a primitive trait and does not indicate relationships very well- but mistakenly indicates that the "oecobiids" are larger than "urocteids". It also still has the two "families" on different pages, so the revision did not include a rearrangement of the figures. In the scorpions there have been major taxonomic changes as well, but most of these were not noted (again several are probably just too recent to have been included). However, Hadrurus is correctly placed in the Iuridae, instead of the Vaejovidae.

Because of these major developments I cannot recommend this book as an up to date guide to currently recognized spider families, but it still is a good starting place for those (especially young people) who would like to know more about arachnids, millipedes, centipedes, and land crustaceans. Fortunately many, if not most, of the families (e. g. Theraphosidae, Oonopidae, Salticidae, Linyphiidae, Selenopidae, Theridiidae, Araneidae, Tetragnathidae, Lycosidae) are still valid as described in the original edition of the book.

A good little field guide
Upon first reading, it is unfortunate that "Spiders and Their Kin" shows but a select few species from among the Arachnid pantheon, but it has been a great read and a great reference over the ten-plus years since I first purchased an earlier edition.

Used as a sole reference, the book is lacking in many crucial details, but there are more specialized books available to those who find that the information within these pages is less than desired.

True, it will not go in-depth with regard to each individual species, and may not show one in particular, but it's a handier starting point for arachnid identification than its larger brethren and, that, I think, is the purpose for which it is intended to be used.

The bottom line: if you know little to nothing about arachnids at this time, or you just need a field guide to get you started on making identifications, go ahead and buy Levi's little gem. If you feel like you need to learn all that can be learned about an individual species of spider or need more specialized/more advanced field guides, then this is probably not the book for you.

Good Starter book
I think this is a good starter book for identfying spiders that are more common. There are a couple of pages on webs that I found interesting. In the front it gives a great visual on how the Arthropod group is broken out and how different spider types break out within that - all helps when trying to do the id. There are so many different amazing spiders - this can only scrath the surface but is a really good place to start. I just like taking pictures and having a general idea of what I'm looking at so for me it works...I will be checking out other books too though like "How to Know Spiders" if there is one in that "How to Know" series.

this is a little kids book
I bought this book because I was expecting to ID the brown recluse which has several variations. This book had one poorly drawn picture and 1 sentence about the Brown Recluse. I was disappointed to say the least. This is one of those little field guides for kids.
This would be a good field guide for someone about 8 years old.

Gross but interesting, even to an Arachnophobe
Last week I woke up when a spider bit me on my forehead. It was a shallow, burning pain rather like someone had injected a weak solution of hydrochloric acid under my skin. About a third of my forehead was flushed red when I first looked in a mirror, but the redness subsided within a few hours, leaving a dime-sized lump that is still visible a week later.

I used "Spiders and Their Kin" to tentatively identify the mangled remains of the spider as a small Brown Recluse ('Loxosceles reclusa'). Just in case I needed to go see my doctor, I put the spider into a baggie and froze it. Luckily, my forehead didn't dissolve---according to the Levis, "In severe cases...the wound grows deeper and does not heal for several months."

At any rate, "Spiders and Their Kin" is a handy book to have around. I bought a copy for my sister when she found what she thought was a Black Widow in her garage, and I also got a copy for myself in order to identify the gigantic black and yellow spider that was hanging head-down in my Japanese Spiraea (it was---or maybe I should say, she was a Black and Yellow Argiope ('A. aurantia').

When I first bought this book, just looking at the cover made me itch. However, it is filled with fascinating little tidbits about Arachnids and their kin. I used to think that Hairy Mygalomorphs were the ugliest spiders on Earth (most especially the ones with ten inch leg spans), but now my vote goes to the Pirate Spiders ('Mimetidae'). Luckily, they are small spiders (4 - 6 mm), so you would have to use a magnifying glass to get the full impact of one of these hairy little dudes.

It is really rather impolite of me to make fun of 'Mimetidae,' since they help beautify my backyard by eating other spiders. According to the authors:

"Pirate Spiders invade webs of other spiders. The slow-moving Pirate Spider bites the web owner, which is quickly paralyzed and sucked dry through the legs, one after another."

Sou