Synopses & Reviews
From the ancient Egyptian cat goddess, Bastet, to the prophet Muhammadand#8217;s favorite cat, Muezza, and our contemporary obsession with online cat videos, felines have long held a place of honor in their human counterpartsand#8217; homes and cultures. But the domestic cat is just one of many feline species, and in
The Wild Cat Book cat experts Fiona and Mel Sunquist introduce us to the full panoply of the purring, roaring feline tribe.
Illustrated throughout with Terry Whittakerand#8217;s spectacular color photographs as well as unique photos from biologists in the fieldand#151;some the highest quality images ever captured of exceptionally rare speciesand#151;The Wild Cat Book not only tantalizes with the beauty of cats, but also serves as a valuable and accessible reference on cat behavior and conservation. Comprehensive entries for each of the thirty-seven cat species include color distribution maps and up-to-date information related to the speciesand#8217; IUCN conservation and management statuses, while informative sidebars reveal why male lions have manes (and why dark manes are sexiest), how cats see with their whiskers, the truth behind our obsession with white lions and tigers, and why cats canand#8217;t be vegetarians. The Wild Cat Book also highlights the grave threats faced by the worldand#8217;s wild catsand#151;from habitat destruction to human persecution.
From the extraordinary acrobatics of the arboreal margayand#151;able to cling to a tree branch by a single paw thanks to its unusually flexible anklesand#151;to modern declines in African lion populations, The Wild Cat Book is an instructive and revealing ode to felines of every size and color. Combining science, behavioral observations, and stunning photography, this book will captivate cat fanciers the world over.
Review
"You'll learn of carnivores you've never heard of (servals, caracals and genets) as well as those that are more familiar (lions, tigers and bears)." --Scott Shalaway, Pittsburgh- Post Gazette
Review
"Carnivores of the World is a comprehensive field guide to all 245 species of terrestrial carnivores--everything from tiny least weasels to gigantic polar bears. Though few will use this book as an actual field guide, it is packed with the natural history of each species. You'll learn of carnivores you've never heard of (servals, caracals and genets) as well as those that are more familiar (lions, tigers and bears). And each species account is filled with details including information on diet, behavior and reproduction."--Scott Shalaway, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Review
"The thing that makes this book a 'must' is . . . its two-page/subject organization. Choose your carnivore and then turn to that page--the data is on your left and the image is on the right. It's just that simple. So, who would want a book like this? Well, certainly sportsman. . . . Kids would love it too. (What youngster wouldn't get a kick out of looking up the Palawan Stink Badger or studying a Grizzly skull?) It would make for an ideal field guide for birders, lepidopterists, guides, campers, backyard birders ('What on earth was that thing?') fresh water fishermen, farmers."--Alan Speakman, Ebirdseed.com
Review
"One of the coolest books I've ever seen."--Greg Laden's Science Blog
Review
"A huge undertaking designed to present the current state of knowledge about each of these species, including some exceedingly rare ones."--Library Journal
Review
"Spectacular full-color illustrations by Barrett (Mammals of Europe), sometimes showing customary behaviors or including depictions of cubs, accompany each entry and beautifully clarify textual descriptions. . . . Currently the most up-to-date subject guide available."--Library Journal
Review
"This title could easily be used as a standalone reference for specialists and academics in the fields of biology and conservation. General audiences and students will also enjoy it for its beautiful illustrations and accessible species accounts."--Charles Leck, American Reference Books Annual
Review
"Biologist Hunter has produced a beautifully illustrated, concise guide to all 245 terrestrial carnivores."--Choice
Review
"The book is packed with information about carnivores and is a worthy addition to anyone's bookshelf. Highly recommended!"--Timothy McDougald, Afarensis blog
Review
"Whether its user is a scientist doing field research, a traveler studying wildlife in various lands, a biology teacher preparing a lesson, a student doing a project, or just a person interested in carnivores, this book is an outstanding resource. Going well beyond what most would expect in a field guide, it has a depth of information that one might expect to find only after examining numerous sources. Having it all in one concise, one-stop volume gives it a broad appeal."--Richard Lord, American Biology Teacher
Review
One of the coolest books I've ever seen. Alan Speakman - Ebirdseed.com
Review
Carnivores of the World is a comprehensive field guide to all 245 species of terrestrial carnivores--everything from tiny least weasels to gigantic polar bears. Though few will use this book as an actual field guide, it is packed with the natural history of each species. You'll learn of carnivores you've never heard of (servals, caracals and genets) as well as those that are more familiar (lions, tigers and bears). And each species account is filled with details including information on diet, behavior and reproduction. Scott Shalaway
Review
A huge undertaking designed to present the current state of knowledge about each of these species, including some exceedingly rare ones. g Laden's Science Blog
Review
"Most people know what a cheetah, wild dog, or puma looks like, but what about a Malay weasel, lesser grison, cacomistle, or Owston's civet? Look here for carefully drawn plates, drawings of skulls and tracks, and succinct, helpful species accounts."--Conservation Biology
Review
"This is a book that belongs on the shelves of scientists, students, and naturalists as well as being something anyone interested in nature would enjoy paging through to learn about these highly adapted creatures."--Dan R. Kunkle, Wildlife Activist
Review
This book would make an essential reference book in all college and university libraries as well as a great book to be owned by individuals and used. Dan R. Kunkle - Wildlife Activist
Review
The promotional material claims this is the first field guide of its kind, and I can think of nothing else that comes close. All in all, a great buy for all levels of reader, and an inspiring starting point for young naturalists. Divya Mudappa - Small Carnivore Conservation
Review
Some conservationists have been promoting 'mammal watching' as a means to help stimulate ecotourism in much the same way that birding has. Hunter's splendid Carnivores of the World just might help spark interest in 'twitching' this most charismatic group of species. Christine Adkins - Discovery
Review
Carnivores of the World is a comprehensive field guide to all 245 species of terrestrial carnivores--everything from tiny least weasels to gigantic polar bears. Though few will use this book as an actual field guide, it is packed with the natural history of each species. You'll learn of carnivores you've never heard of (servals, caracals and genets) as well as those that are more familiar (lions, tigers and bears). And each species account is filled with details including information on diet, behavior and reproduction. Scott Shalaway
Review
"I was consistently impressed with the style, editing, content, quality and up-to-dateness of the book. It is a world first and a truly impressive, comprehensive and highly attractive volume. Everybody interested in carnivorans will want to obtain a copy and I cannot recommend it highly enough. Outstanding."--Darren Naish, Tetrapod Zoology blog at Scientific American
Review
This is truly an authoritative, well-researched and richly-illustrated book on the world's carnivores, and we commend the author Luke Hunter and the illustrator Priscilla Barrett for their work in compiling the material and presenting it so well in this outstanding book. Michael Hoffmann - Quarterly Review of Biological Books
Review
"A beautifully illustrated and eminently readable book, The Wild Cat Book by Fiona and Mel Sunquist is the best primer out there to delve into the evolution, survival, and status of the worldand#8217;s wild cats. Presenting the species according to their ancestral history, or lineages, the Sunquists share their extensive knowledge and experience to open up the remarkable and diverse world of cats in an interesting yet substantive manner. It is the rare book that could be used both as bedtime reading for a child, as well as a reference volume for a college student. This is such a book.and#8221;
Review
and#8220;Wild Cats of the Worldand#160;had been the sanctuary's favorite resource book for all things feline, but after reading The Wild Cat Book by Fiona and Mel Sunquist, I know we have a new favorite resource. The images are so stunning that it was hard to put the book down, but where it really stands out, from all other books about exotic cat species, is in the depth of research and thought that went into covering such issues as white lions, white tigers, ligers, and hybrids. This is a book that we will use and enjoy for years to come.and#8221;
Review
and#8220;The cats of the world are among the most captivating and charismatic of all creatures. From the mighty lion to the diminutive sand cat, each possesses the feline attributes of stealth, grace, and beauty. This marvelous book showcases the worldand#8217;s cats in all their compelling diversity.and#8221;
Review
"While there are many books about cats, none are like this book. The Wild Cat Book is a pleasure to read. The authorsand#8217; enthusiasm and passion for cats comes through in almost every paragraph, and the book should appeal to the largest possible cross section of people. Enhanced with geographic distribution maps and many photographs, The Wild Cat Book is a comprehensive, interesting, enjoyable, and current review of all that we know about members of the great family of cats, the Felidae.and#8221;
Review
and#8220;Domestic cats are family members in millions of homes. To what extent do they still reflect their wild ancestors, species that range in size from the majestic tiger to the diminutive sand cat? Read The Wild Cat Book and find out. It is the most authoritative source on every kind of cat.and#8221;
Review
andldquo;The cat family tree, DNA studies have shown, contains a total of thirty-seven species in eight related groups. All thirty-seven species are included here, complete with photos and maps showing the location of their natural habitats. Bizarrely, though, thereandrsquo;s no mention of lolcats. . .andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;After reading dozens of books about these powerful predators over the last six months, my children have finally discovered the Bible of wild cats. Gorgeous photos accompany this 280 page in-depth discussion of these fascinating creatures. If you have a child who is ready to make the jump from wild cat fan to major enthusiast, this is the book.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;A definitive reference on the thirty-six species of wild cats of the world, some of which will be unfamiliar to many readers. The accounts of each species, accompanied by outstanding photographs and large distribution maps, are arranged in eight groups, from the largest cats in the oldest lineage, Panthera, through bay cat, caracal, ocelot, lynx, puma, leopard, and the most recent, the domestic cat lineages. Each account includes physical characteristics, range, habitat, social and hunting behavior, and other fascinating information not easily accessed elsewhere. Side boxes provide interesting insights into feline natural history outside of what is presented in the species accounts. An extensive bibliography for each species provides sources of additional information for interested readers. The clearly written text and attractive layout of photographs make this book a valuable resource for both academic and public libraries. . . . Highly recommended.andrdquo;
Synopsis
A comprehensive illustrated field guide to the world's carnivores
Carnivores are among the most spectacular creatures in the natural world, and also the most feared. Carnivores of the World is the first comprehensive field guide to all 245 terrestrial species of true carnivores, from the majestic polar bear and predatory wild cats to the tiny least weasel. This user-friendly illustrated guide features 86 color plates by acclaimed wildlife artist Priscilla Barrett that depict every species and numerous subspecies, as well as about 400 line drawings of skulls and footprints. Detailed species accounts describe key identification features, distribution and habitat, feeding ecology, behavior, social patterns, reproduction and demography, status, threats, lifespan, and mortality. Carnivores of the World includes an introduction that provides a concise overview of taxonomy, conservation, and the distinct families within the order Carnivora.
- Covers all 245 terrestrial species of true carnivores
- Includes 86 color plates by acclaimed wildlife artist Priscilla Barrett
- Features detailed species accounts and hundreds of line drawings
- The first field guide of its kind
-- "Conservation Biology"
Synopsis
Carnivores are among the most spectacular creatures in the natural world, and also the most feared.
Carnivores of the World is the first comprehensive field guide to all 245 terrestrial species of true carnivores, from the majestic polar bear and predatory wild cats to the tiny least weasel. This user-friendly illustrated guide features 86 color plates by acclaimed wildlife artist Priscilla Barrett that depict every species and numerous subspecies, as well as about 400 line drawings of skulls and footprints. Detailed species accounts describe key identification features, distribution and habitat, feeding ecology, behavior, social patterns, reproduction and demography, status, threats, lifespan, and mortality.
Carnivores of the World includes an introduction that provides a concise overview of taxonomy, conservation, and the distinct families within the order Carnivora.
- Covers all 245 terrestrial species of true carnivores
- Includes 86 color plates by acclaimed wildlife artist Priscilla Barrett
- Features detailed species accounts and hundreds of line drawings
- The first field guide of its kind
Synopsis
"I don't know of a concise global summary of carnivores like this. The illustrations cover a wide range of forms from all over the world, including many that are rarely photographed or preserved in museums."--Roland W. Kays, coauthor of Mammals of North America
Synopsis
Carnivores are among the most spectacular creatures in the natural world, and also the most feared. Carnivores of the World is the first comprehensive field guide to all 245 terrestrial species of true carnivores, from the majestic polar bear and predatory wild cats to the tiny least weasel. This user-friendly illustrated guide features 86 color plates by acclaimed wildlife artist Priscilla Barrett that depict every species and numerous subspecies, as well as about 400 line drawings of skulls and footprints. Detailed species accounts describe key identification features, distribution and habitat, feeding ecology, behavior, social patterns, reproduction and demography, status, threats, lifespan, and mortality. Carnivores of the World includes an introduction that provides a concise overview of taxonomy, conservation, and the distinct families within the order Carnivora.
- Covers all 245 terrestrial species of true carnivores
- Includes 86 color plates by acclaimed wildlife artist Priscilla Barrett
- Features detailed species accounts and hundreds of line drawings
- The first field guide of its kind
Synopsis
"I don't know of a concise global summary of carnivores like this. The illustrations cover a wide range of forms from all over the world, including many that are rarely photographed or preserved in museums."--Roland W. Kays, coauthor of Mammals of North America
Synopsis
Carnivores are among the most spectacular creatures in the natural world, and also the most feared.
Carnivores of the World is the first comprehensive field guide to all 245 terrestrial species of true carnivores, from the majestic polar bear and predatory wild cats to the tiny least weasel. This user-friendly illustrated guide features 86 color plates by acclaimed wildlife artist Priscilla Barrett that depict every species and numerous subspecies, as well as about 400 line drawings of skulls and footprints. Detailed species accounts describe key identification features, distribution and habitat, feeding ecology, behavior, social patterns, reproduction and demography, status, threats, lifespan, and mortality.
Carnivores of the World includes an introduction that provides a concise overview of taxonomy, conservation, and the distinct families within the order Carnivora.
- Covers all 245 terrestrial species of true carnivores
- Includes 86 color plates by acclaimed wildlife artist Priscilla Barrett
- Features detailed species accounts and hundreds of line drawings
- The first field guide of its kind
Synopsis
"I don't know of a concise global summary of carnivores like this. The illustrations cover a wide range of forms from all over the world, including many that are rarely photographed or preserved in museums."--Roland W. Kays, coauthor of Mammals of North America
Synopsis
In 2002, we had the pleasure of publishing Fiona and Mel Sunquistandrsquo;s Wild Cats of the World, an encyclopedic account of the worldandrsquo;s cat species, and have sold nearly 8,000 copies of the book to date. Wild for Cats aims to further enthrall a wider herd of readers with a general, highly illustrated reference on cats. (Wild Cats of the World was written to be of utility to cat specialists and scientists and only secondarily to non-specialists and cat fanciers, much like Wolves reaches dual audiences.) Wild for Cats allows us the chance to collaborate again with this team of scientists, and the photographer Terry Whittaker, who in some cases has captured the only known photos of particular cat species. It presents entries for each of the 37 species, which include accessible text, photos, and a color distribution map. Strategic sidebars discuss topics such as why darkand#160; manes are the look of choice for male lions, the magic of catnip, and how cats vocalize. An important theme that runs throughout the work, as it did in their first book, is the IUCN conservation status of each species. For several of the species, Wild for Cats will be the only up-to-date book reference on conservation and management status.
About the Author
Fiona Sunquist is a science writer. Her work appears in print, interactive multimedia, and on websites; she is the author of five books and numerous popular articles.Mel Sunquist is professor emeritus in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida, Gainesville.Terry Whittaker is a UK-based photographer specializing in wildlife conservation and the environment. He lives in Kent.