Colour photographs
192 pages, 253 x 190 mm
Publisher:
The Natural History Museum, London
From the smooth, damp creatures that leap about to the warty species that tend to run or walk, Frogs and Toads is a comprehensive guide to this large and diverse group of animals.
Chris Mattison describes the evolution and classification of frogs and toads, highlighting distinctive and notable species and providing detailed information about each of the 49 recognised families. He describes their eventful life-cycle, diverse habitats and the various methods they use to attract mates and hunt for food. For example, did you know that many frogs swallow prey whole and then use the undersides of their eyeballs to help push the
food down their throats?
The book also explores frogs' interaction with humans, from modern day collection for the meat trade, scientific research and the trade in exotic pets, to how their survival is threatened by over-exploration, habitat destruction, climate change and disease.
Drawing on the latest research and the recently revised classification system, and illustrated with stunning colour photographs throughout, this guide will appeal to amateur naturalists and all those with an interest in the world of frogs and toads.
Includes detailed information on each of the 49 unique frog families, including where they live and what they eat
Describes their remarkable diversity in shape, colour and markings, and their unique anatomy and development
Reveals the physiological and behavioural ‘tricks’ they use to survive and often thrive
Stunningly illustrated with eye-catching colour photographs throughout
Written by expert Chris Mattison and fully checked and approved by a Natural History Museum scientist
Introduction
Chapter 1 Origins and classification
Chapter 2 Size and shape, colour and markings
Chapter 3 Interactions with the physical environment
Chapter 4 Enemies and defence
Chapter 5 Food and feeding
Chapter 6 Reproduction
Chapter 7 Life-cycles
Chapter 8 Habitat and distribution
Chapter 9 Frogs and man
Chapter 10 The families
Further information
Index
Picture credits
Acknowledgements
Amateur naturalists and all those with an interest in the world of frogs and toads.
"Written by one of the world’s best wildlife photographers, the illustrations in this book are superb… This is both a very informative book and a beautiful book to browse."
Mike Gregson, WA Naturalist News, June 2011, p.5
"... this is a valuable, attractive and comprehensive book which I recommend wholeheartedly. lf you like frogs you’ll love it; if you're indifferent to frogs it will change your mind."
Angus Martin, Victorian Naturalist, Vol 128 (6) December 2011
Chris Mattison is a natural history writer and photographer who specialises in reptiles and amphibians. He has written and illustrated over 20 books, mostly on the natural history of reptiles and amphibians and their responsible care and breeding in captivity.
His photography regularly appears in books and magazines throughout the world, and he has been a runner-up in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition – the international showcase for the very best photography featuring natural subjects. He was awarded a Fellowship of the Royal Photographic Society for a presentation of 20 photographs of reptiles and amphibians.
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