Until the discovery of the Islands in 1535, the flora and fauna of the Galapagos evolved in isolation, producing strange and marvellous island species, as Charles Darwin found when he visited 300 years later. Nowadays many people visit the islands to see the unique wildlife and still encounter almost all the species that were present when Darwin visited. This is in striking contrast to the chains of extinctions that have occurred in every other large oceanic archipelago following the arrival of man. This compact, well thought out and clearly presented book provides a comprehensive guide to the terrestrial vertebrates on Galapagos. It is simple to use, the text is concise and the innovative use of digital technology has produced a remarkable collection of plates. An informative guide of this kind will help everyone, from beginner to experienced naturalist.

The first comprehensive guide to the birds, mammals and reptiles of the Galapagos, covering every living species recorded. Innovative, simple-to-use format will help beginners and experts alike to identify with confidence the striking and charismatic Galapagos fauna. Focuses on the key identification features of each species, highlighting the differences between similar species. Information on each species' status, habitat preferences, breeding seasons and significant behavioural characteristics is provided, along with 78 colour distribution maps for all resident species. 500 photographic images and 20 illustrations on 53 colour plates illustrate nearly every bird, mammal and reptile ever recorded on the Galapagos, including images of some species never previously published.

About the Author
Andy Swash is a zoologist, ecologist and accomplished photographer. During his visits to the Galapagos he has obtained excellent photographs of most of the resident birds, mammals, and reptiles. Rob Still is an ecologist and widely travelled naturalist. The authors are partners in WildGuides, a publishing organisation established to support wildlife conservation.

Reviews
"The introduction and accompanying chapters are a 'must read' for all visitors to these islands. A wonderful boook, and complemented with the superb photographs of Rob Still, this is definitely a great guide to take with you if you ever have the chance to visit the Galapagos Islands. It is also small enough to fit into your back pack along with your essential water, binoculars and camera." Scottish Bird News (June 2006) "Any visitor to the Galapagos would benefit from having a copy of this fine guide". British Ornithologists' Union (2006)



Book Information
ISBN 9780713675511
Author Rob Still
Format Paperback
Page Count 168
Imprint Helm
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Weight(grams) 294g
Dimensions(mm) 204mm * 130mm * 12mm