Packed full of facts and detailed illustrations, this updated new edition is an expert family reference guide to the animals that inhabit our world. From the smallest mouse to the largest whale, this book offers a detailed and thorough introduction to an array of reptiles, amphibians and mammals, exploring their habits and habitats. Beginning with a biological and evolutionary overview of the animal kingdom, the book examines a huge range of animal characteristics, such as anatomy, survival instincts and reproduction, and takes a closer look at what it means to be an amphibian, reptile or mammal. The second half describes animals from North and South America, Africa, Europe, Asia and Australia. Over 1000 illustrations, 800 distribution maps and information boxes detailing habitat, diet, size, life span and conservation status accompany the entries.
Tom Jackson is an experienced author of natural history and science books. Since graduating with a degree in zoology from Bristol University, England, he has worked at Jersey Zoo and has been involved in the conservation of endangered wildlife in Zimbabwe.