Guide to Wetlands

Book excerpt: A comprehensive and fascinating guide to the wetlands of the world that covers important wetland wildlife in detail, with a special focus on birds. The ecology of marshes, estuaries, floodplains, lagoons, swamps and bogs supports an exceptionally rich diversity of species. Many wetlands around the world are now open to the public as nature reserves that generate millions of visitors including birdwatchers and amateur ecologists. Guide to Wetlands covers the many aspects of the study of wetlands in a single, portable volume. Using spectacular color photographs and clear explanatory illustrations alongside the author's concise text, it discusses: What are wetlands Wetland diversity How wetlands work The need for wetlands Adapting to life in wetlands Plant adaptation Animal adaptation People and wetlands Loss of wetlands Rural development and agriculture Wetland conservation Wetland wildlife. The book includes a wetland atlas with maps identifying wetland environments around the world and describing topography and important features. Birdwatchers will find this book of particular interest. Guide to Wetlands is an essential reference on a crucial aspect of the global environment that will appeal to naturalists, birdwatchers, ecologists and travelers.