General Herpetofauna Books

Review: Although this book is titled as the amphibians and reptiles of Surrey, as Surrey hosts all of the UK's native reptiles and amphibians, this book is applicable across the UK. The distribution maps are limited to the Watsonian vice county of Surrey. The book includes detailed accounts of all native species of herpetofauna, and includes reference to introduced species. An introductory chapter even covers a potted history of the dinosaurs of Surrey. With a foreword by Sir David Attenborough (a Surrey resident), the book also includes guidance on survey techniques, and a list of current toad crossing sites. The handy size of this book makes it equally useable as a reference source or field guide. This book is a 'must have' for Surrey ARG members.

Review: This 40-page soft-cover book provides national distribution maps of all native reptiles and amphibians of Britain, together with some mention of introduced species. The number of reported records by month of the year are presented, as well as a basic breakdown of the habitat types where the animals were sighted (where possible). Sightings are catagorised as current, historic or as introductions. This is the essential quick-reference guide for those wishing to grasp understanding of the national distributions of all our herpetofauna.

Note: Although this book provides useful information, it is now outdated, as it contains a snapshot of species' distributions from 1994. More up to date information is available from the NBN Gateway web site.

Review: Although this book is aimed at younger readers, this fact just makes the book easier to read. The book includes accounts of our fourteen native herpetofauns (they include Marsh and Pool frogs). There is a full description of each animal, including notes on its habits and habitat. The book includes chapters on catching and keeping these animals, as was accepted practice at the time the book was written.