The Nature of California: An Introduction to Familiar Plants, Animals & Outstanding Natural Attractions

by James Kavanagh Waterford Press, Waterford Press Waterford Press, Leung, Raymond Leung, Raymond (Illustrator)

Overview

A world unto itself, California encompasses an environment as rich and diverse as any on earth. Deserts, mountain ranges, wetlands, woodlands and 1,100 miles of coastline provide habitats for over 580 bird species, 200 mammals, 130 reptiles and amphibians, 60 freshwater fishes and 5,000 native plant species, many found only in California. This beautifully illustrated field guide highlights over 370 common and unique plants and animals and 85 of the state's outstanding natural attractions. It is an indispensable single reference for amateur naturalists, students and tourists alike.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781583553015
Publisher:	Waterford Press Ltd.
Publication date:	03/05/2018
Series:	Waterford Press Field Guide
Edition description:	Second Edition
Pages:	176
Product dimensions:	5.56(w) x 8.47(h) x 0.43(d)
Age Range:	10 Years

About the Author

Zoologist Jim Kavanagh has made a career out of introducing novices to plants, animals, the sciences and world cultures. In addition to creating over 500 simplified nature guides, he has also authored guides to languages, cities and outdoor skills. An avid traveler and backpacker, Kavanagh’s path has taken him around the world to many remote destinations including the upper Amazon, Africa, Australia, and the Arctic Circle (and this is just the As). He is also the author of a series of state-specific guides to common species and natural attractions and a children's book on evolution.

www.waterfordpress.com

Read an Excerpt

HAWKS, EAGLES AND ALLIES
Primarily carnivorous, these birds have sharp talons for grasping prey and sharply hooked bills for tearing into flesh. Many soar on wind currents when hunting. Sexes are similar in most.
California Condor, Gymnogyps californianus
Size: 40-55 in. (1-1.4 m)
Description: Huge black bird with a naked head and hooked bill. White triangles on the underside of the wings are visible in flight.
Habitat: Mountains and open country.
Comments: An endangered species, it is the largest bird of prey in North America. Once nearly extinct, hand-raised populations have made a comback in recent years and are slowly being transplanted in the wild.

Editorial Reviews

Recently we found a volume which we believe is just right for teaching us about California and which would make a great gift for a newcomer or for older children. James Kavanagh’s The Nature of California: An Introduction to Common Plants and Animals and Natural Attractions describes and illustrates hundreds of birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, trees and wildflowers. In addition, there’s a listing of the natural attractions of some of our state and national parks and a register you can use to check off the animals, flowers, etc., that you spot during your travels. The Nature of California won’t qualify you as a botanist or zoologist, but it will help you identify that wildflower you’ve wondered about for years or pinpoint the name of that strange fish you just hooked. Highly recommended.

The Native Son San Francisco

The Nature of California offers an agreeable overview of animals and plants casual hikers and campers are likely to encounter. Kavanagh notes which species have been introduced to the state, and which are potentially dangerous. A useful book to keep with the picnic supplies or camping gear.

Los Angeles Times