Mammals Books

In my view, anyone with an interest in the natural world will find this book valuable. Arguements are balanced and well presented. The author had done an excellent job in explaining and dispelling many of the *incorrect* beliefs and fears which people have about wolves.

I found this book picked up where Barry Lopez (Of wolves and men) left off and continues to confront the very real opposition agianst wolves, ranchers and trappers. It also has some wolf adovactes and wolf researchers who argue on the wolf`s behalf. This book is loaded with tons of great information and paints a clear picture of the wolf debate. The only thing I found that was annoying is that, once agian, the book covered mostly american issues. It would have been great if it had covered some canadian and world issues instead of focusing on american wolves.

Steinhart examines many aspects of wolf conservation and controversy in a thought-provoking book.

Although this book is slightly dated, having been written before wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone, I still think it is very much worth reading. It examines controversial issues from various perspectives without demonizing or whitewashing any of them, letting the reader form conclusions -- or come to the conclusion that solutions are not easy after all. It is one of the only nature writing books I've read that discusses the sociological and anthropological aspects of conservation, and the moral issues that complicate our relationships with predators, and it does this in a clear, rational, unsentimental way. Some of the ideologies presented here will be disturbing to readers -- I had never encountered the belief that wildlife is a "resource" to be "harvested" as people see fit -- but Steinhart presents his informants in a fair light, I think.

Chapters on the purity or not of red wolves (on which Steinhart suggests what I think is a rational conclusion regarding the mutability of species as they evolve) and on the dangers of wolf-dog hybrids add interesting material that isn't covered in most books on wolves.

This book discusses the world of wolves and their relations with people. It makes a great introduction to the subject. Though most of the material will be familiar to the dedicated wolf-freak, even she will learn some new things here. Steinhardt writes well, and the book is as much a page-turner as a nonfiction book can be.

Each chapter combines a particular theme with Steinhardt's discussions of some person relevant to that theme. For example, the chapter on howling focuses on Algonquin Provincial Park and its summer wolf howls, built around discussions with John Theberge, who started researched Algonquin's wolves by howling at them. The most amusing of these subject-and-person pairings is the chapter on wolf pack social organization, in which David Mech is characterized as the alpha male of wolf research.

Each chapter also includes some musings on the meaning of wolves for humans. Why do we hunt? Why do we react to the howl as we do? Why do some people breed wolf-dog hybrids? Some of these musings posed interesting questions but I didn't find any of Steinhardt's comments on them particularly insightful.

Steinhardt is clearly on the side of the wolves, and I suspect that most of his readers are, too. Still, he makes an effort to discuss both sides of the issue. Ranchers and even a retired wolf-bounty hunter find sympathetic portrayals here.

The book's overall lack of depth would be my only significant criticism. To learn more, dig into the "further reading" that Steinhardt provides at the end.

Peter Steinhart's book is a kaleidescopic view of the status of wolves today. There is everything in it from views on the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone Park to the controversial scientific status of the red wolf. Though Steinhart is sympathetic to the idea of having wolves in the wild, he deliberately takes a many-sided view, and tries to understand the motivations of wolf lovers, wolf haters, and researchers of all stripes. For city slickers like me, this is an invaluable way to introduce one to complex issues of animal v. human and the various environmental v. job claims which often dog species or habitat recovery issues. For this reason, I highly recommend that anyone interested in ANY environmental issues read this book, whether or not wolves are of interest to them

I bought this for friends of ours who recently moved to Iowa (go figure). She has let me know it's the best book on the subject. They spend lots of time in the wide open looking at cows. So I guess you can't get a better reference than that!

Sara Rath really gets deep and into her writing in this book. I enjoyed every bit about it. I thought i knew just about every thing there was to know about them being as though i was raised around them my whole life. I would recommend this book to anyone

Sara Rath's "The Complete Cow" is a gem of a book. I was amazed by the scope and in-depth coverage of cows written in friendly first person text. It 's all so readable and interesting, you just keep turning the pages for more information about these all-important and loveable beasts. The book is full of large-format color photos, side-bars, cow jokes and interesting trivia such as how to say "Moo" in eleven languages. Did you know that the age of a cow is always based on her age when she calves? Or that Texas still leads the US in beef production? Rath writes about the mythical cow in places like Egypt, Greece and Scandinavia; cow breeds of the world (Kuri, Pinzgauer and Romagnola); and the philosophy about cows. Another section I found interesting was "Holy Cow" about how the Masia tribe of Kenya andTanzania devote their lives to cattle; the importance of cattle in Irish culture; and interesting lore about the Texas Longhorn. The Complete Cow, entertaining and witty from start to finish, is a real pleasure to hold in your hands. A great gift for anyone who loves cows!

Why are cows so trendy? Why do cow calendars sell out at Christmas before their kitten and puppy counterparts? Well, the answer was a mystery to me until Sara Rath put together her incredibly well-researched account titled, THE COMPLETE COW. This book is a gas! From the truly beautifull photography -- to the hilarious "asides" on bovine history, Rath has put together a cow compendium of unrivaled proportions. A great book for animal, trivia, and history lovers alike, this book brings together Rath's fine, storied prose and a character we can't help but love.

As with so many other "ordinary" things in life, I had forgotten to think about cows, and I certainly had no idea that there are so many different types. Thank goodness we have authors, like Rath, who have the ability to re-ignite the childlike wonder in us. The Complete Cow's entertaining text and stunning photos make it exactly the kind of book that my children and friends love to pick up, over and over. I'm ordering copies for my sisters for Christmas.

Anyone who has read my other reviews will know that I don't give stars easily but I can find no reason even to deduct a single star from this book. Whether you have been, are going or just want to dream of going this is the book for you. As its title indicates, its prime purpose is to describe the wildlife, and it gives top billing to the birds - all in a level of detail which should satisfy the most demanding birder, but which the average interested amateur naturalist should also find interesting. The authors have sensibly provided a fine set of plates rather than relying on photos as the main identification aid. There are however many good photos as well - this use of both "media" is, as far as my experience goes, unusual in bird books which tend to opt for one or the other when in fact each has its advantages and disadvantages. The section on marine mammals is of a similar quality. Another section comprehensively describes each of the regions (including Sub-Antarctic islands all the way up to Tristan) with information which makes the book useful as a "travel guide" for planning and accompanying a trip (though it is really too fine a book to get damaged in use!). In addition there are good (if relatively short) sections on geology, climate, history, botany etc etc - in fact on just about any relevant subject you could think of. Indeed if you could only have 1 book on the Antarctic this is a very good candidate - and at a very good price!

Basics: 2008, 2nd edition, hardcover, 544 pages, 35 color plates, 920 color photos, range maps

Exquisite. Impressive. Awesome. This is an incredible book for three reasons. One, the thoroughness of information for so large a geographic region is unmatched in any other book I've seen. Two, the depth of coverage for each species leaves the reader wanting for little else. Three, the photos are outstanding and probably offer the best examples available for many of these remote species. A fourth reason just came to mind: I cannot think of one bird species in the region that is not represented with a good color photo.

This book has excellent photos for remote species that 99% of us will only dream about seeing. This is the only book I know of to offer quality photos of all the birds of the Tristan da Cunha islands -- a remote location that has always captured my fancy and wishes. Other sub-antarctic islands like Antipodes, South Georgia, Falklands, Chatham, Campbell, and Aukland islands have their unique species covered.

The text dedicated to each of the bird and mammal species is well written, complete, and invaluable to anyone visiting this sub-polar region. Topics for each include identification, distribution and biology, conservation, and taxonomy. The range maps do a valiant job at trying to capture detail for such a massive area. Viewed from directly above the southern pole, the map shows all of Antarctica along with the southern tips of South America, Africa, Australia, and all of New Zealand. The information in the identification section is detailed and offers great information on the plumage variations and critical differences between similar species.

The author uses the latest taxomonic revisions, which is important for the ongoing flux with albatrosses, petrels, and shearwaters.

The layout of the chapters is a bit different from the typical book. I recommend taking a few moments to first review the contents outline at the very beginning. It helped me to better understand how the species and geographic groups were aligned as I flipped through the pages. There are several distinct sections which include a synopsis of the region, species accounts for birds and mammals, and regional descriptions to cover the many island groups.

The breadth of information in the first 40 and in the last 120 pages of the book is excellent material on the ecology, natural history, and geography of a rarely seen world. It is also a testament to the author's passions, experience, and scientific contributions.

If you ever go south of the S40-degree latitude, you must take this book despite its size and weight. This is also a requirement for your library if you have even the slightest interest in Antarctic wildlife.

Other Related Books:
1) Birds and Mammals of the Antarctic, Subantarctic and Falkland Islands by Todd
2) Birds of the Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic by Watson
3) Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds (7 volumes) by Marchant et.al.

The first edition of this wonderful book of natural history won many prizes and won my heart during a trip to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands a few years ago. It has just been significantly updated and revised and is significantly improved.

It has 920 color photographs and illustrations, including 300 new photographs. There are 128 color distribution maps and up-to-date species accounts including abundance, seasonal status, and conservation prospects. It covers many nonbreeding species, migrants, and vagrants. Sections on albatrosses and petrels have been fully revised.

There are excellent maps of each region, and chapters are devoted to geography, climate, geology, general ecology, and flora. The sections on conservation efforts are excellent and challenging.

There is a useful section on visiting Antarctica and the various islands; my trip was on the Explorer II (the successor to the "little red boat" Explorer I which sank a few months ago). It was a great joy to read this new edition and to relive my wonderful experiences visiting that marvelous part of the world.

Robert C. Ross 2008

Lot of great pictures and very informative articles. This book will definitely be with my camara and computer during my trip to Antarctica.

I brought this book to the Antarctic peninsula with me, only to find a copy already aboard ship. It was still worth carrying.

Yes, good photos, but much better for the information. Details on identifying all sorts of animals, including the territories they can be found in at various times of the year, changes in appearance during the year and even a rather comical phonetic approximation of the sounds they might make.

I bought a lot of books in my year prep for this trip. This was one of the best. Must owning for anyone going south of 50 degrees.

the best book on dolphins I've read. Deals not only with science, but the emotional aspect of working with dolphins. A must read if interested in the field....

Carol Howard has a unique talent and way of combining love, compassion, sorrow, humor, and a vast amount of knowledge in 294 pages. Never have I learned so much about a book as I did from Dolphin Chronicles. My ultimate dream is to study these strange and magnificent creatures of the sea, as well as whales. I received Dolphin Chronicles as a Christmas gift from my Grandparents, and I must say that it was my favorite gift of all! In the past, I have read about 5 or 6 books about Cetaceans (by Jacques-Yves Cousteau and other authors) and have gotton extremely bored halfway through the material, simply because it was so dry and was lacking the compassion Carol so rightly illustrates! I would recommend this book to anyone. I am planning on researching more of Carol Howard's work wherever it may be. If anyone can clue me in as to the fastest and cheapest ways of finding it, Please feel free to e-mail me your information. Thank you. :-) P.S. If Carol Howard or anyone who knows Mrs. Howard reads this review, I would like to know her e-mail address if possible to personally thank her for producing such a wonderful and moving book. Thanks for your cooperation. --"May your life be like the Dolphin, calm and peaceful waters."

Dolphin Chronicles is a wonderful story about Carol J. Howard's adventure with dolphins. Her book was so well-written that I felt like I was actually participating in her events. I am only thirteen years old but it the best book I have read in my life. I now want to be a marine biologist and dedicate my life to researching and caring for dolphins. Thank you Carol for writing such a wonderful book

I'm a 14 year old girl, and I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I love dolphins, and I wanted to learn more about them without being fed a bunch of information like a textbook. Instead, Dolphin Chronicles presents lots of information in textbook form. By the time you get to the end, you'll have a much greater understanding of dolphin training, their lifestyles in captivity and in the wild, and the life of a person working with dolphins without ever realizing you were even learning anything! It's great that this book can be so easy to read and comprehend with so much info packed inside. I totally recommend it to anyone who would like to understand the dolphin world better!

This is the best first hand experience I have ever read on dolphins! I do marine mammal rescues and have a deep love and respect for dolphins and our oceans. Carol Howard's experience is one that I feel I have experienced first hand. Excellent writing. It helps us realize the need to know more about dolphins and their brilliance but also to respect their need to be free in our oceans.

First published in 1995, nothing else as comprehensive and as carefully researched on canine behavior and development has been published. For the general reader, the writing style may be a bit dry; however, because each chapter has different authors, the writing style, while basically academic and fact driven, varies.

Any serious dog breeders, trainers, or owners will find themselves returning to certain chapters over and over again. Breeders and even new puppy owners would benefit from the chapter by Serpell and Jagoe on "Early experience and the development of behaviour," which updates the standard beliefs about puppy development resulting from the Bar Harbor experiments of over 50 years ago.

Excellent book!

This book is packed with easily understandable, concise information. Whether you are a behaviorist or simply a dog lover, this is a must have.

For those people hungry for scientific literature on dogs and curious about what other references there are on particular dog topics, this is a must read/must have text; almost every chapter serves as a review of the scientific literature on that topic. Those who don't care for reading anything drier than James Herriot's "All Creatures Great & Small" should avoid it.

The book is probably used as a text for graduate students and upper division majors in ethology, comparative psychology, zoology, etc. It was published in 1995 so most of the information is fairly current. The book is in its 5th printing so some professors must share my judgment of it. Let's hope that by 2005 there's a revised edition including and evaluating recent work.

It has 17 chapters written (or co-written) by 21 specialists in their fields -- British, American, Italian -- (after an introduction) divided into 3 major divisions: I. Domestication & evolution (2 chapters) ; II. Behaviour & behaviour problems (8 ch.s); III. Human-dog interactions (6 ch.s). The chapters provide an excellent summary and the key references to the area discussed. A few chapters have a definite British flavor but American readers will be able to transpose when needed.

Dog breeders (& many owners) may be especially interested in the chapters dealing with what's known about heritability of traits, temperament, etc., as well as the role of early experience on later behaviors, disorders, etc.

A few chapters are filled with research results in tables and graphs. One is dense with specialist jargon. But all are readable if you're interested in learning what the applicable sciences know and do not know about the dog. All chapters have information I found important and to some, I'll refer back to many times.

I particularly recommend this book for it's Chapter 9: Lockwood, Randall, The ethology and epidemiology of canine aggression.

For those experts and attorneys looking for detailed information regarding dangerous dog law and breed specific legislation (BSL), Lockwood's article provides subtle but direct information regarding the unique dangers presented by pit bulls that provide a rational relationship to their regulation or prohibition.

This article has been reviewed and cited by experts in the field of animal behavior as being relevant to this issue, and I found Lockwood's analysis of "fighting dogs" (read 'pit bulls') to be an objective analysis of the problem, one that is not readily acceptable to the "politically correct" members of most organizations opposed to BSL.

For any governmental official, administrator, or attorney, you HAVE to read this article before making a decision on BSL. Don't get blindsided by the irrelevant issues toward propensity to bite/attack, but examine the potential for severe injury or fatal maulings from these dangerous unique behaviors by pit bulls.

I am a municipal government attorney involved in litigation over BSL, so I've worked with copies of the article from the old hardcover publication - now I'm buying my own copy of the paperback version.

Kory Nelson, Esq.
Asst City Attorney
Denver CO

Does it seem that retail book stores stock dog books that appear opinion-based and poorly referenced or researched? The early chapters of The Domestic Dog concerning evolution may be a little bit factual and historically oriented (read: a tad dry) but presents an excellent understanding of how dogs came into contact with humans and the resulting reliance and interations. The book, in part, looks at areas of canus familiarus and human interaction from both a biological, survival necessity to what kind of kennel should be considered based on breed selection. There are many discussions on topics not normally covered in commercial or general appeal dog books that will compliment, inform and provide insight into otherwise unknown or insufficiently covered areas about dogs. Areas of new information include (but is not limited to): pack hierarchy, dog development and growth, dog psychology and others. It is one dog book I can rely on for its research, reference material and impartial analyses into breed types. It has helped me learn more about dogs than previously possible in other purported books based on fact. I do believe that one must be more interested in dogs than just a casual manner (i.e.: one must really want to get into the nuts and bolts) to enjoy and finish this book.

I saw this book at a San Antonio airport and knew I had to get it for my daughter. We're relocating to Texas, and what better way to help her adjust than a good book. I ordered it through Amazon, and when it arrived, loved the colorful artwork and story line.

I bought this book for my twin two year old nephews (along with a stuffed armadillo). I bought it for the lessons (don't cross/careful crossing the road) and the sweet story. They love it and the art work is adorable. They're a little young for the lesson but since they're so engaged with the story now I think they'll keep it around long enough for the lessons, too.

Not only is this delightful book instructional but it is also great fun for both children and adults. Kids really respond to the illustrations which animate the story. Definitely a keeper -- one you will want to read and look at over and over.

This book by the author of "Don't Call Me Pig! A Javelina Story" and "Lizards for Lunch. A Roadrunner's Tale" is a wonderful blend of whimsical rhyme and natural history lesson. Young readers (or listeners) will love following the antics of a red-capped armadillo student as his teacher armadillo lectures the a restless armadillo class all about their history, biology, habitat, and most importantly the dangers of crossing the road! Bringing the words to life are Nathaniel Jensen's delightful illustrations--the expressions on the little armadillos faces are priceless.

This is a sweet story you won't mind sharing with your child again and again. The illustrations are first rate, each page has its own color palate as the story progresses from evening to dawn (armadillos are nocturnal, after all!). My three year old has a new best friend!

The publishers also did a great job on the printing. The images are crisp, the paper is of good quality so that the colors jump out at you.

Good for kids or adults who are collectors of picture books.

Succint offshore guide that is perfect for outdoor seashore walks. Fits well in the pocket and has ideal illustrations packaged for convenient rapid reference. Text is pertinent and complements the colored illustrations in a concise relevant way. I can't wait for the next volume addressing the southern shores.

This field guide has it all -- a comprehensive catalog of off-shore life, excellent organization, and absolutely extraordinary illustrations that prove that the best illustration is better than photography for depicting archetypes. The authors are renowned in their fields and their skill, experience and knowledge shows in every page. The best guide I've found.

This book is a delight to look at: the illustrations are stunning, the design is clean and elegant. It's a delight to hold: the binding, the quality of the paper, the form factor. And it's a delight to read: the text is clear and concise, while packed with detail. For me, the most compelling aspect of the book is the illustrations, which Lynch brings to life on the pages. I unhesitantly recommend this book to anyone who takes pleasure in the wildlife of the North Atlantic.

The most striking aspect of this book to me, after taking in the richly and lovingly painted portraits of shoreline wildlife, is the depth of the included species. This book does not merely include the usual suspects, but includes the smallest foundation creatures at the base of the shoreline food chain on up. From the informative maps, and intuitive layout, this book is an easily pocketable gem and a great reference. -David Bolinsky

The quality of the information is surpassed only by the quality of the illustrations. Craftsmanship through and through. I look forward to seeing more titles from these two talented people. Bravo!

The Florida Manatee : Biology and Conservation is the best book about manatee. It is writing on a easy way to read, even for people that are no so good reading English, cover everything you want to know about manatee, and explain why there are so amazing and unique among marine mammals. A great gift for yourself or for a friend!

This new book was both easy to read and quite informative, covering the history of Florida's lovable manatees, their lifestyle, biology, and a look at their future. I visit Florida on an annual basis to snorkel with manatees and this book is the best resource I've found for up to date manatee information. It comes highly recommended.

The Florida Manatee is possibly the best book on manatee biology, behavior, ecology, and current research available. It provides indepth information about manatees in an easy to read format that can be used by the layperson, scientist, or wildlife manager. I would recommend this book to anyone who has interest in one of the world's most endangered and lovable mammals!

The Florida Manatee, Biology and Conservation book is a very complete and good overview about manatee and a really interesting book. It contain a lot of informations writing on an easy and agreable way to read and to understand for everybody interesting on manatee. I recommend this book to everybody interesting on learning more about manatee. A really great book!

I bought this book for my niece who is a marine biologist. She loves the book. And really likes the personal stories. I read the book as well, and found it to be extremely informative about manatee biology and issues. This book also provides a unique introduction into the world of real working biologists, which i found to make it alot more fun to read. The pictures were great too! Definitely a must read for any one interested in manatees or marine mammals!

This is a peek-a-boo type story. You lift cardstock to find where gramma is hiding from grandson. Would tear if young child was using it, but good book to read to young child.

My just turned 3 year old great grand girl loved this book the first time she heard it. She laughed out loud and immediately wanted to hear it again. It is a fun book for the young ones, but us old folks enjoy it too.

My sons Grandma bought this book for my 18mo and he really enjoys lifting the big flaps trying to find where Grandma is. This is a great book about Grandmas.

My grandchild lives in the USA and I live in Canada. I am determined that this toddler remember me between visits. This book lets my grandchild fold open pages to see the "grandma" behind the fold and so it lends itself very well to my goals. On the last page I pasted a photograph of my living room and when she lifts up the page there is a photo of me. She's only 16 months old but her mother says she loves to hear the story and laughs when she lifts up the last folded picture to find me there. Follow up: I just returned from Christmas in California - she's now 19 months old & the book is nearly worn out and the gloss is worn away from the living room photo!

A cute story about a Grandma spending time with a grandchild. My 1 and a half year old loves to find Grandma beneath the little flaps...and then the Little Hippo hides himself...will Grandma find him. A wonderful story for a grandmother to share with a little person!

My children loved this book. If you have children, buy this book for they will really enjoy it, and if you still have a little child inside yourself you, are really going to enjoy it also!

Millions know Jamie Farr by his beloved M*A*S*H character, Maxwell Klinger. What few remember is the fictional camel named Habeebe "Klinger" introduced in one episode. In this book, Jamie and his wife Joy tell the rest of the story that will delight a whole new generation of fans. You meet not just Habeebee and wife Habeeba, but their young one named, you guessed it, Hababy. And with Hababy come several other friends from the animal kingdom. The story is fun and it has a point. The pictures are bright and sure to delight any youngster. I hope this isn't the last time we meet this wonderful family ... both the camels and the Farrs.

Jamie and Joy Farr's book, "Hababy's Christmas Eve" is so delightful. Habeebee, Habeeba and Hababy are almost lifelike and sends a joyful message about Christmas. Illustrations by Alice io Oglesby bring the Camel family to life. This book is a great read and I would recommend it to all adults and children.

Joyce Rapier, author: "Windy John's me 'n tut" and "Windy John's, Rainbow and the Pot o' Gold"

I received an eBook for review and the pages progress slowly, however it is worth the wait while the wonderful illustrations move into place. I would be interested to see the paper copy of the book. This is a children's 32 page picture book I am happy to recommend for use by teachers, and parents.-Molly Martin, 20+ years teacher

I bought Jamie & Joy Farr's book to read to my great-grandchildren, and I think it's an inspirational little story about the camel family that Jamie first introduced on M.A.S.H. I especially enjoy the little fantasy that HABABY's ancestors were the camels that carried the wisemen as they followed the star to Baby Jesus.
The book is well-made and beautifully designed, too; the paper slick, and the illustrations especially colorful. My grand-children really loved it, and kept pointing to details in the fabulous illustrations.
Thanks, Jamie, Joy, & illustrator Alice for entertaining us in such a delightful way. I plan to place this book on our table every Christmas and hope it becomes an annual tradition ... reading it to our youngest ones ... beside a cozy fireplace.
Reviewer: BETTY DRAVIS, author of THE TOONIES INVADE SILICON VALLEY and MILLENNIUM BABE: THE PROPHECY



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