Turtles of North America An illustrated field guide to the turtles of the continental United States and Canada

In this colorful work, the author provides an overview on 64 species of turtles that inhabit Canada, the continental United States, and surrounding ocean waters. The lengthy introduction surveys turtle biology and behavior, including their unique anatomy, evolution and taxonomy, reproduction, diet, habitats, and predatory threats. This section concludes with issues relating to turtle conservation, particularly the main threats affecting population declines. The rest of the work addresses individual species, organized by groups sharing similar characteristics; for example, snapping turtles and American musk and mud turtles. Species accounts are short--two-page entries on identification, range, habitat, diet, reproduction, and conservation status. Two to three color pictures help with identification, and interesting sidebars discuss unique features or characteristics of a species, such as the wiggling tongue of the alligator snapping turtle, used to attract fish. Overall, this short work helps introduce turtles to those with a nascent interest in these creatures.