This field guide to Arctic wildlife is a thorough examination of the territory, with emphasis on habitat. In the introductory pages, the author defines the region and then discusses its geology, climate (including such unique phenomena as aurora borealis, parhelia, mirages, ice blink, water sky, and whiteout), exploration, and habitats and what it takes for organisms to survive the harsh conditions. The introduction concludes with a look at threats, including global warming.
Following all the background information is expansive coverage of the wildlife, divided into separate sections for birds and mammals. Arrangement is by major taxonomic groupings, and for each grouping, there is an overview followed by species accounts. For example, the section on loons includes the common loon, the yellow-billed loon, the Arctic loon, the Pacific loon, and the red-throated loon. Each account provides identifying characteristics, confusion species (other species for which the one in question can be mistaken), size, voice (an interesting detail), distribution, diet, breeding, and variations. Range maps denoting location are provided, as are full-color photographs showing birds in their habitats. In addition, color plates illustrate the species in each taxonomic group. "A Visitor's Guide to the Arctic" and an index listing the common, alternative common, and scientific names of wildlife complete the volume.
It is obvious that this book was carefully researched and that the author has strong sentiment for the animals of this environmentally fragile area. Large public and academic libraries considering this purchase should find readership among those researching the Arctic or simply wanting to browse a lovingly presented guide. cheryl ward
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Review
A thorough examination ... expansive coverage.... carefully researched... A lovingly presented guide. (Cheryl Ward
Booklist 20070501)
This is a beautifully done field guide on the Arctic... A great reference book! (
Wildlife Activist 200703)
Blend[s] a field guide to Arctic birds and mammals with a mini travel guide to the Arctic. (Diane C. Donovan
The Midwest Book Review 200703)
Defines terms and retraces history with such lucid style one cannot put the book down. (Diane M. Calabrese
American Reference Books Annual 2007)
[A] richly illustrated, fact-packed celebration of the Arctic. (
Wildlife Conservation 200710)
The overall quality of this book is excellent; it has very sharp, well-reproduced color photographs, excellent illustrations, and concise, well-written text.... I strongly recommend it. (Stephen R. Johnson
Arctic 20061209)
An important addition to the library of anyone with a deep and abiding interest in Arctic natural history. (Helle V. Goldman, Norwegian Polar Institute, Polar Environmental Centre, Norway
Journal of Polar Research, Norwegian Polar Institu 20061125)
A richly illustrated and fact-packed celebration of the Arctic's mammals and birds, with each species annotated in meticulous details. (
Globe and Mail 2009)
A comprehensive guide ... replete with vivid full-color photographs. (
Science News )
The species descriptions are detailed and clear and are some of the best I have read....the photographs are really eye-catching. (Roy John
The Canadian Field-Naturalist, Vol. 120 )
This is every bit a reference book, illustrated by over 450 high quality colour photographs plus art renderings (Joy McDonell
Canadian Camera )
This beautiful, useful book is a must for any library covering animal life, geography, or the Arctic. Summing Up: Essential. (B. Galbraith, Washington State University
Choice )
