New Titles

1) Olsen, Lars-Henrik. Tracks and Signs of the Animals and Birds of Britain and Europe. 2013. Princeton University Press. Paperback: 273 pages. Price: $29.95 U.S.

SUMMARY: This beautifully illustrated field guide enables you to easily identify the tracks and signs left by a wide variety of mammal and bird species found in Britain and Europe, covering behaviors ranging from hunting, foraging, and feeding to courtship, breeding, and nesting. Introductory chapters offer detailed drawings of footprints and tracks of large and small mammals, which are followed by sections on mammal scat, bird droppings, and the feeding signs of animals on food sources such as nuts, cones, and rose hips. The book then describes specific mammal species, providing information on size, distribution, behavior, habitat, and similar species, as well as more specific detail on tracks and scat. Distribution maps are also included.

      This indispensable field guide covers 175 species of mammals and birds, and features a wealth of stunning color photos and artwork throughout.

This book:

• Helps you easily identify the tracks and signs of a variety of mammals and birds
• Covers 175 species
• Illustrated throughout with photos, drawings, and artwork
• Includes informative descriptions of mammal species along with distribution maps

RECOMMENDATION: European naturalists will enjoy this book.

2) Petter, Jean-Jacques and Francois Desbordes. Primates of the World. 2013. Princeton University Press. Hardbound: 186 pages. Price: $29.95 U.S.

SUMMARY: This stunningly illustrated guide to the world's primates covers nearly 300 species, from the feather-light and solitary pygmy mouse lemurs of Madagascar--among the smallest primates known to exist--to the regal mountain gorillas of Africa. Organized by region and spanning every family of primates on Earth, the book features 72 splendid color plates, facing-page descriptions of key features of each family, and 86 color distribution maps.

      Primates of the World also includes concise introductory chapters that discuss the latest findings on primate origins and evolution, behavior and adaptations, and classification, making it the most comprehensive and up-to-date primate guide available. This book:

• Covers nearly 300 species and every family of primates worldwide
• Features 72 color plates--the finest illustrations of primates ever produced
• Includes facing-page descriptions for each family and 86 color distribution maps
• The most comprehensive and up-to-date guide to the world's primates

RECOMMENDATION: Anyone with an interest in primates will enjoy this well illustrated book.