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Currently
out of print
Chris Mattison has written a number of good books on reptiles
and amphibians, to which list can be added this excellent introduction
to the 30 species of rattlesnakes. Starting with a chapter of
basic information on the snakes themselves, which answers such
basic questions as how the rattle is formed and how the snakes
inject their venoms, the text moves on to cover the general
distribution and habitats of rattlesnakes, their origins and
evolution, and their interactions with humans. The last chapter
covers each rattlesnake species, with capsule descriptions,
range maps, habitat, and information on venom. What makes this
book a valuable acquisition are the terrific color photographs
of the snakes, particularly those in the species descriptions.
Mattison writes clearly and with obvious fondness for his subjects.
Given the public's fascination with poisonous snakes in general,
and rattlesnakes in particular, this book is a valuable addition
to any library's collection. Nancy Bent
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