Life in Colour How Animals See the World

About this book

Beauty is more than skin deep.

"The natural world is awash with colour, but we are only seeing half the story. If we could see things as animals do, our world would become unimaginably brighter. Now, thanks to new science and technology, we can at last open our eyes."
– Sir David Attenborough

In nature, colour is more than a source of beauty; it's a form of vital communication. Depending on the situation, colour says different things – it can be an expression of power or seduction, warning or deceit – and it can even, occasionally, save your life. Accompanying a major new BBC series with David Attenborough, Life in Colour explores the fascinating story of how colour works in the natural world. From the 'trichromatic' vision of Silver Leaf Langurs, which allows them to see orange and red against forest foliage – the colours not only of ripe fruit, but of their young – to African Mandrills who use their colouration to do battle, Professor Martin Stevens reveals a complex system of messaging visible only to those who know the code. Based on the latest scientific research in the field, and illustrated with stunning photography throughout, Life in Colour reveals a world previously unknown to us.

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Biography

Martin Stevens is Associate Professor of Sensory and Evolutionary Ecology in the Centre for Ecology and Conservation at the University of Exeter, UK. His research and teaching focus on animal behaviour and their sensory systems and ecology. Most of his work aims to understand the evolution and function of animal colouration, including camouflage, mimicry, and warning signals, from the perspective of animal vision. He has published over 80 scientific manuscripts, two textbooks, and a general audience book on deception in nature.

Martin's research is frequently covered in the international media. He has taken part in a wide range of TV, radio and magazine productions, and given public lectures around the world.