In the simplest culture of usual background writing and paintings, The Snake and the Salamander explores the varied number of reptiles and amphibians that inhabit the northeastern quadrant of the us. protecting thirteen states that run from Maine to Virginia, writer Alvin R. Breisch and artist Matt Patterson exhibit the lives of eighty three species of snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, and salamanders. those fascinating animals are prepared by means of habitat and sort, from wooded area to grassland to bathrooms to important waters, and printed via a mix of Breisch’s enticing prose and Patterson’s unique colour illustrations.

Breisch’s guided journey combines ancient notes and conservation concerns with classes on genetics, evolution, habitats, existence histories, and extra. observe how cautious consciousness to frog calls coupled with DNA research ended in the invention of a brand new species of frog in ny urban, why evolutionary diversifications made the jap Ratsnake a very good climber, and the fantastic proven fact that Spiny Softshell turtles truly dash on land to retreat from predators. Breisch additionally tells the bizarre story of the fairway Frog and the sleek Greensnake, "green species" that don't even have any eco-friendly pigment of their epidermis. each species has a narrative to tell—one that might continue the reader eager to research more.

The breadth of herpetofauna within the sector will shock many readers: greater than eight% of the world’s salamanders and eleven% of all turtle species dwell within the quarter. past numbers, in spite of the fact that, lie aesthetics. The outstanding shades and engaging life of the reptile and amphibian species during this booklet will mesmerize readers younger and old.