Amphibians and reptiles represent an essential and interesting component of Wisconsin's wildlife. Eighteen species of amphibian and thirty-six species of reptile occupy landscapes across the state. They live in aquatic habitats that range from small streams to large lakes, and from open prairies to mature forests on land. These species are vital members of the biological communities in which they occur, acting as important predators, prey, and competitors, while also providing a wide variety of additional ecological functions. However, many amphibians and reptiles have experienced drastic population declines and even local extinctions in Wisconsin due to habitat loss and degradation, overharvesting, the introduction of invasive species, pollution, and other factors.

Otters are among Britain's most popular and endearing wild creatures. Made famous by literary phenomenon Ring of Bright Water , they have taken the place in the hearts of the British people. Previously threatened, their survival is now as assured as that of any wildlife can be. Andy Howard has been photographing them for more than a decade, especially on the Isle of Mull, Shetland, and Vancouver Island in Canada. His stunning photography will amaze and enlighten. His story will be reread many times.

With its clear and conversational writing style, comprehensive coverage, and sophisticated presentation, 'Marine Biology : Function, Biodiversity, Ecology', Sixth Edition, is regarded by many as the most authoritative marine biology text. Over the course of six editions, Jeffrey Levinton has balanced his organismal and ecological focus by including the latest developments on molecular biology, global climate change, and ocean processes.

Lakes are among the Upper Midwest’s greatest treasures and most valuable natural resources. The Great Lakes define the region, and thousands of smaller lakes offer peace, joy, and recreation to millions. And yet, in large part because of the numbers of people who enjoy the local waterways, the lakes of Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota face numerous challenges. Invasive species, pollution, defective septic systems, inadequate shoreland zoning laws, and climate change are present and increasingly existential threats. We are, quite possibly, loving our lakes to death.In his engaging and conversational style, Ted Rulseh details each of these challenges and proposes achievable solutions.

The Remarkable Reefs of Cuba tells the story of the demise of the world's ocean ecosystems, the hard work of those desperately trying to save it, and an unexpected beacon of hope from Cuba - an island full of mystery and surprises.

Conservationist and National Geographic photographer Thomas Peschak shares more than 200 of his images and the stories behind them.

In 1977, Michael J. Bean introduced the concept of "wildlife law" as a distinct new component of environmental law. Known fittingly thereafter as the "dean of wildlife law" Bean has since written scores of articles shaping the policies that impact the natural world. Survival and Recovery: Essays in Defense of the Natural World is built around a collection of those writings, both previously published and unpublished, with a principal focus on the Endangered Species Act-the legislative cornerstone of conservation and recovery efforts for imperiled wild plants and animals in the United States. The background to that pioneering law, many of the conflicts and controversies associated with it-some widely familiar and others not-and the challenge of fashioning effective approaches to rare species conservation are all addressed here. So too are related topics, including administration of National Wildlife Refuges, plastic pollution, and climate change.

In this mesmerizing book of photography, acclaimed photographer David Liittschwager reveals the unnerving beauty of three notoriously mysterious sea creatures--the jellyfish, octopus, and seahorse--and how they perceive the world.

This is a guide for active mushroomers in Kansas. Kay, Sikes, and Morse have accounted for the many ways mycology has changed in the last 25 years and the upheaval in taxonomy caused by advances in molecular genetics and have reflected changes in the field

A comprehensive encyclopedia of cats with a fully illustrated guide to 120 breeds and over 1500 photographs This comprehensive book brings together veterinary-approved advice on cat care and a directory of the world's best-known cat breeds. The book opens with a brief history of the cat and covers every important topic that any responsible owner needs to be aware of.