Lizards of the world A guide to every family

Lizards are among the world's fascinating creatures, with more than 7,000 distinct species all over the globe. British herpetologist O'Shea provides a useful guide for those wishing to learn more about these interesting animals. His introduction covers the origins and evolution of lizards; he also covers taxonomy, internal anatomy, skin, sense organs, locomotion, reproduction, diet, defense, and conservation and notes lizards' ability to survive in extreme environments as well. O'Shea then provides a chapter on each lizard infraorder: sphenodonita and dibamia, gekkota; scincomorpha, lacertoides, inguania, and anguimorpha. Full-color illustrations and maps of their habitat areas accompany the text. Readers will marvel at the diverse diets, modes of reproduction, and defense mechanisms that lizards use. A glossary and a resource list of books, field guides, societies, and websites offer further information. VERDICT Anyone interested in animals or planning a trip to an area with lizards will find this vibrant book a helpful and appealing addition.--Barbara Bibel