Secrets of Snakes: The Science beyond the Myths (W. L. Moody Jr. Natural History Series #61)

Secrets of Snakes: The Science beyond the Myths (W. L. Moody Jr. Natural History Series #61)

David A. Steen
$25.00
Publication Date: September 23rd, 2019
Publisher:
Texas A&M University Press
ISBN:
9781623497972
Pages:
184

Description

Winner, 2020 National Outdoor Book Award, Nature and the Environment

Snakes inspire extreme reactions. Love or hate these limbless reptiles, almost everyone is fascinated by them. Although snakes are widespread and frequently encountered, they may be more misunderstood than any other group of animals. From giant rattlesnakes to mating dances, there are dozens of myths and misconceptions about snakes. In Secrets of Snakes: The Science beyond the Myths, wildlife biologist David Steen tackles the most frequently asked questions and clears up prevailing myths.

In a conversational style with a bit of humor, Steen presents the relevant biology and natural history of snakes, making the latest scientific research accessible to a general audience. When addressing myths about snakes, he explains how researchers use the scientific method to explain which parts of the myth are biologically plausible and which are not.

Steen also takes a close look at conventional wisdom and common advice about snakes. For example, people are told they can distinguish coralsnakes from non-venomous mimics by remembering the rhyme, “red on black, friend of Jack, red on yellow, kill a fellow,” but this tip is only relevant to coralsnakes and two mimics living in the southeastern United States, and it does not always work with other species or in other countries.

Enhanced by more than 100 stunning color photographs and three original drawings, Secrets of Snakes: The Science beyond the Myths encourages readers to learn about the snakes around them and introduces them to how scientists use the scientific method and critical thinking to learn about the natural world.

Number Sixty-one: W. L. Moody Jr. Natural History Series

About the Author

DAVID A. STEEN is the reptile and amphibian research leader of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and executive director of The Alongside Wildlife Foundation. Dubbed “the best biologist on Twitter” by Slate, Steen answers questions about snakes and other wildlife on his award-winning blog Living Alongside Wildlife at www.livingalongsidewildlife.com and on Twitter @AlongsideWild.

Praise for Secrets of Snakes: The Science beyond the Myths (W. L. Moody Jr. Natural History Series #61)

“Well-written, entertaining, and full of great information. There is something in the book for everyone from seasoned herpetologists to K-12 students. However, the book's most important target audience are the many people who fear or misunderstand snakes and their ways. If you are a fan of snakes, I implore you, as Dr. Harry Greene does in the book's Foreword, to purchase a copy, or several, and gift them to folks you know who lack an understanding and appreciation for snakes.”—Biological Conservation

“an excellent book and worth stocking in every library . . . recommend[ed] to anyone curious about these amazing and vital inhabitants of our world. Steen is careful to never be dismissive or belittling of questions, which is a real strength of this work. In his words, he seeks to promote ‘acceptance through understanding,’ and his approachable written style helps to accomplish this.”—Herpetological Review

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