Overview

Snakes are creatures of mystery, arousing fear in many people but fascination in a few. Recent research has transformed our understanding of the behaviour and ecology of these animals, revealed their important roles in diverse ecosystems, and discovered new and effective ways to conserve their populations and to promote coexistence between snakes and people. One of the leading contributors to that scientific revolution has been Prof Rick Shine. Based in Australia, whose snake fauna is diverse and often dangerous, his experiences and anecdotes will inspire a new generation of serpent scientists. Spellbinding stories highlight the challenges, frustrations, and joys of discovery, and give the reader a greater appreciation of these often-slandered slithering reptiles. Key Features Documents the important role played by a preeminent herpetologist. Focuses on research conducted in Australia, especially on snakes. Summarizes highly influential conservation studies. Explores the ways in which research has deepened our understanding of snakes.

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9781032232928

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Reviews

“… a good balance between personal and professional aspects: there is fascinating science, a fair presentation of colleagues (even the not-so-easy-to-tolerate aspects of personalities are presented in good spirit), warmth, wit, and humor, and the photos are informative and good. The first great generation of conservation scientists is about to disappear, and several of them have recently published their autobiographies. Shine’s is the best one I have read so far. I risk to declare the appearance of a classic. It is recommended to all scientists and laypersons with an interest in natural history, evolution, ecology, or (Australian) natural history. Read it and enjoy.” Gabor Lovei Senior Scientist Emeritus, Professor, Member of Academia Europea Book Review Editor, Conservation Biology

“… a good balance between personal and professional aspects: there is fascinating science, a fair presentation of colleagues (even the not-so-easy-to-tolerate aspects of personalities are presented in good spirit), warmth, wit, and humor, and the photos are informative and good. The first great generation of conservation scientists is about to disappear, and several of them have recently published their autobiographies. Shine’s is the best one I have read so far. I risk to declare the appearance of a classic. It is recommended to all scientists and laypersons with an interest in natural history, evolution, ecology, or (Australian) natural history. Read it and enjoy.” Gabor Lovei Senior Scientist Emeritus, Professor, Member of Academia Europea Book Review Editor, Conservation Biology “The stories of the snakes explored in this book transition effortlessly from descriptions of their natural history to how ground-breaking research generating new ways to think about ecology and evolutionary biology emerged. The book celebrates the importance of big thinking and long-term approaches in research, but it also highlights the critical role that observation, description and a passion for nature play in shaping the world views of ecologists.” Dieter F. Hochuli Book Review Editor, Austral Ecology

Author Information

Rick Shine has conducted pioneering research on the ecology and conservation of snakes. He has studied many types of snakes in many types of ecosystems, and has revolutionized our understanding and appreciation of these mysterious creatures. His work has resulted in more than a thousand scientific publications, and has attracted numerous national and international awards.

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