Secrets of Snakes

The Science Beyond the Myths

David A. Steen

$57.99

Paperback

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English

Texas A & M University Press
30 September 2019

Mathematics & Sciences; Reptiles; Conservation of the environment; Wildlife: reptiles & amphibians

Series: W. L. Moody Jr. Natural History Series

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.

By: David A. Steen
Imprint: Texas A & M University Press
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions: Height: 238mm, Width: 160mm, Spine: 12mm
Weight: 415g
ISBN: 9781623497972
ISBN 10: 1623497973
Series: W. L. Moody Jr. Natural History Series
Pages: 180
Publication Date: 30 September 2019
Audience: Professional and scholarly , General/trade , Undergraduate , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

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.

Reviews for Secrets of Snakes: The Science Beyond the Myths

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-- 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-- Herpetological Review