Carl and Evelyn Ernst have completely revised their landmark reference "Venomous Reptiles of North America" to present the most comprehensive review of these animals in years. Volume One of this definitive work presents dramatically improved species accounts of the venomous lizards and elapid and viperid snakes found north of Mexico's twenty-fifth parallel. Volume Two, forthcoming in Spring 2012, covers the twenty-one rattlesnakes found in the United States, Canada, and, for the first time, species found only in northern Mexico. Of unsurpassed value is the detailed information that Ernst and Ernst have painstakingly researched and verified. No detail of the lives of these fascinating and sometimes deadly animals is left out.
"Venomous Reptiles of the United States, Canada, and Northern Mexico" provides information on each animal's diet, reproductive behavior, physiology, ecology, and conservation status. Also covered are details on snakebite, how venom is delivered, venom composition, antivenom production, and medical treatments of envenomation. Included in each species account are vivid photographs that aid with identification and detailed maps that show the species range. "Venomous Reptiles of the United States, Canada, and Northern Mexico" represents the latest research on these animals and includes the most extensive bibliography of literature on the subject. Anyone with an interest in venom, snakes, or herpetology in general will find a wealth of information within the pages of these impressive volumes.
Carl H. Ernst, professor emeritus at George Mason University and a research associate at the Smithsonian Institution, is coauthor of "Turtles of the United States and Canada". Until her recent retirement, Evelyn M. Ernst taught high school chemistry and biology and was an administrator with the National Science Resources Center. Together they wrote "Snakes of the United States and Canada".
A winner.
- Midwest Book Review 2011
"An excellent resource for professionals in many fields for years to come and a detailed reference book for anyone wishing to know about venomous snakes. Highly recommended."
- Choice 2011