A Field Guide To The Reptiles Of East Africa

The identification of reptiles within East Africa has always posed major problems. Until now, no single comprehensive guide to East Africais c. 420 reptiles existed, and much of the known information was scattered in obscure scientific journals. This book thus breaks new grounds it is the first complete listing, and guide to all the known reptiles of the five East African countries (Kenya, Tanzanaa, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi). It has been written by six expert East African herpetologists, incorporating virtually all known information on the East African reptile fauna. Collectively they have over 10 years of East African field experience and have previously published a number of major revisionary and descriptive papers and books on the reptiles of the region. Nearly 500 high quality colour photographs illustrate most of the species involved enabling to their rapid identification. Many of the species have never been illustrated in colour before Keys and introductory essays are included for all orders, families, genera and species; giving clear introductions to every group There is an individual account for each species, describing its appearance, habits and habitat, accompanied by a map, showing its known distribution within East Africa, and notes indicating its Africa-wide distribution as well Hence this book will be useful not only within East Africa but in the surrounding countries as well, for which no reptile guides exist In addition, the descriptions of dangerous snakes include a section on their venom A comprehensive appendix discusses aspects of snakebite within East Africa and the do's and don'ts of first aid.