This is the only comprehensive field guide covering every species of amphibian, reptile, mammal, and bird found in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT, New South Wales) – a region rich in natural diversity but often overlooked in wildlife literature. This book features all 349 species of the ACT – resident amphibians (16), reptiles (57), mammals (58), and birds (218). With more than 1,000 photographs, it showcases males, females, juveniles, subspecies, and colour morphs along with detailed species profiles including species descriptions, habitats, seasonality, similar species conservation notes, and more. Additonally the book covers 104 vagrant species, 14 extinct species, and 26 introduced/invading species.
Angus McNab MSc (Zoology) has always been fascinated by reptiles and amphibians, and enthusiastic university friends broadened his interests to mammals and birds. With over twelve years’ experience as a wildlife ecologist, Angus has extensive knowledge of Tasmanian wildlife.
"A breathtakingly beautiful celebration, with photographs so intimate that you feel you are out with Bjorn and Fanny watching live animals in the wilderness.[...] his wonderful book will inspire love and respect for Asian wildlife and passion for its conservation."
– Professor Nick Davies, University of Cambridge
"This book is an important testament to why Asia's fabulous but threatened biodiversity needs to be cherished and protected. Stunning images complement the text to produce a book that is both a visual delight as well as informative to assist those planning a trip to the region's top wildlife sites. This book will remind policy planners and decision makers their responsibility to protect these outstanding sites for future generations."
– Gehan de Silva Wijeyeratne, Writer & Photographer, Chairperson- London Bird Club
"We have and are losing so much of the living world. But this inspiring book catalogues, nation by nation, how a host of Asian nature reserves have succeeded in preserving thousands of irreplaceable species. [...] And, as always with Lai and Olesen, the photographs capture these species with breathtaking clarity and beauty"
– Dr. John van Wyhe, Historian of Science and one of the world's leading experts on Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace