Australian Wildlife

A new, thoroughly updated second edition of Bradt s Australian Wildlife, covering habitats, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, the marine environment and where to go. Wildlife writer Stella Martin combines the encyclopaedic knowledge of David Attenborough with the enthusiasm of the late Steve Irwin to offer a unique guide which, compared to others, is variously more portable and more detailed, has a broader scope, goes beyond identification notes and includes an in-depth guide to ecosystems. It also covers all regions of Australia. Background chapters explain how Australia s wildlife evolved in isolation and how the geology, soil and climate affect its natural history. There is also a close look at Australia s infamously dangerous creatures, avoiding the clichés and putting their threat into perspective: although most of the world s most venomous snakes are found in Australia, they are by no means the deadliest. Essential advice is offered for avoiding hazardous wildlife and there are also useful first aid tips. Up-to-date information on conservation is included, including fire and its role in the Australian ecology and the effect of exotic feral animals and weeds. And there are tips on how to find, enjoy and identify wildlife with a `where to go section featuring a state-by-state overview of key wildlife sites, with maps. With a focus on interesting information about the general biology and behaviour of the animals with some detail about the most commonly seen species and explaining how the different ecosystems `work , this guide is for visitors who want to know more about what they see but don t have room for an entire library of reference books. It is a book to read in bed and encourage you to be up at dawn.

Introduction

About this book

The backdrop

The land, past and present, Evolution – moving with the times, The human connection, Conservation issues, Climate

Habitats

The arid zone, Tropical savanna, Forests, Heathlands, The role of fire

Mammals

Monotremes, Marsupials, Placental mammals

Birds

Seabirds, Waterbirds, Ground birds, Raptors, Pigeons and doves, Parrots and cockatoos, Cuckoos and coucal, Birds of the night, Swifts and swiftlets, Kingfishers, Bee-eater and dollarbird, Songbirds

Reptiles

Crocodiles, Turtles, Lizards, Snakes

Amphibians and freshwater fishes

Frogs, Freshwater fishes

Invertebrates

Worms, Arachnids, Crustaceans, Insects

The marine environment

Tropical seas, Temperate seas, Marine mammals, Marine reptiles

Where to go

New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia

Top tips

When to travel, What to bring, Health and safety, Spotting wildlife, Minimal impact, Wildlife photography

Further reading

Index