Reveals the interconnections among all reptile and amphibian species living in the pine forests from Texas to North Carolina

"This book should be read by all who care about the Earth's diversity, conservation, and natural history. It is a pleasant must-read for those with interests in the southeastern United States and especially the herpetologically inclined."--Max A. Nickerson, curator of herpetology, Florida Museum of Natural History

"A compelling and absorbing read, filled with information but written in a style that makes normally stale data fresh."--Joseph T. Collins, author of Peterson Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of Eastern and Central North America

Moving beyond mere species identification, this innovative guide to the reptiles and amphibians of the southeastern pine forests emphasizes their interdependent ecologies and the conservation issues facing all pine woods herpetofauna.

Written for a spectrum of reptile and amphibian enthusiasts, the book is organized by habitat from eastern Texas to North Carolina and south to the Gulf of Mexico and Florida. Included are detailed accounts, range maps, and color photos of the twenty-six native species or subspecies of frogs, salamanders, snakes, lizards, and turtles in the southern pine woods.

After describing the habitat from the perspective of each individual species, Steven Reichling demonstrates the various ways in which these reptiles and amphibians have become intertwined for mutual survival in what is frequently an environment threatened by development and lumbering. He focuses on shared adaptations, ecological interactions, and dependency on a very distinctive habitat. Many of the threats throughout the southern pine woods require urgent action to ensure the survival of some species.

This compelling read will be of value to southeastern ecologists, herpetologists, state and federal wildlife biologists and park managers, lumber company and pine plantation personnel, as well as herpetology enthusiasts.

Steven B. Reichling is curator at the Memphis Zoo and adjunct professor of biology at the University of Memphis.

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"Highly recommended for a general readership in particular, for individuals concerned about perpetuating flora and fauna for future generations."
--American Reference Books Annual

"This compelling read will be of value to southeastern ecologists, herpetologists, state and federal wildlife biologists and park managers, lumber company and pine plantation personnel, as well as herpetology enthusiasts."
--Southeastern Naturalist

"Well written, entertaining, accurate, and a much needed documentation on declining populations within a rapidly disappearing ecosystem. Highly recommended."
--Choice

"By generating awareness of these often fragile species hopefully it will encourage all of us to do what we can to protect these animals and their habitats." " A book of hope that we will see the value and importance of the pine woods and the animals that live within them and make the necessary changes to ensure their survival."
--Animal Keepers' Forum

"Easy-to-use field guides that cover the wide range of these diverse and interesting creatures."
--Wildlife Activist