Venomous Snakes of the World [Paperback]

Mark O'Shea (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 1847730868 | ISBN-13: 978-1847730862 | Publication Date: February 20, 2008

Mark O'Shea has combined expertly written, in-depth descriptions of the world's most common and most exotic venomous snakes with a gripping account of his adventures with snakes, including some serious several snakebite episodes, that have taken place all over the world. From the few European venomous snakes, such as the Adder, to Rattlesnakes, Cobras, Taipans, Mambas and Seasnakes that inhabit other countries, all the major snake species are covered. There are also chapters that explain venomous snake evolution, types of venom, the effects of venom, and discuss the problems with snake conservation.No matter how fearsome these creatures might appear, they all play a vital part in the natural world as both predators and prey.Illustrated throughout with spectacular photographs, many of them the author's own, this book celebrates the diversity and beauty of snakes worldwide.

Editorial Reviews

Review

This is a large book with more than 150 quality full-color photographs, some of which may frighten the serpent-phobic. -- Alvin Hutchinson, Library Journal

Poisonous snakes have been part of human legends - and nightmares - since the beginning of time. O'Shea, a reptile expert and television host, brings to life the world of serpents from around the world [with] hundreds of stunning, often rare, photographs. -- The Globe & Mail

[D]azzling, a photographic journey among the scaly and the lethal. -- Anneli Rufus, East Bay Express --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

About the Author

Mark O'Shea is best known in the UK for his 13-part Channel 4 series 'Mark O'Shea's Dangerous Reptiles', and known throughout the world for his natural history adventure films on Animal Planet and Discovery Channel. His previous books include DK's Handbook to Reptiles and Amphibians.

Product Details

• Paperback: 160 pages
• Publisher: New Holland Publishers Ltd (February 20, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1847730868
• ISBN-13: 978-1847730862
• Product Dimensions: 12.5 x 9.5 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,020,208 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

17 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A good book, November 1, 2005

By 

Abhishek Prasad (Las Cruces, NM) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Venomous Snakes of the World (Hardcover)

Overall, this is a pretty good book. The photographs are what make it great. The text is informative, though not very techincal, so if you are looking for a more in-depth book, this may not be what you are looking for. However, for the price it is well worth it.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Nice pictures, but..., November 5, 2006

By 

Brad Wendt "blue beetle" - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Venomous Snakes of the World (Hardcover)

This book has some really good photos, but is more of a travelogue than a good source of information on venomous snakes. A fun read with pretty pictures. Look elsewhere for in-depth information.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Superb variety of pictures, informative, August 2, 2011

By 

thotfulbuyer - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Venomous Snakes of the World (Paperback)

Pictures are superb albeit on the small side but insightful information with some very interesting facts that have thus far been largely either unknown or unclear. Very happy with the 2011 updated info with this edition. Actually bought it for my 4+ year-old who's fascinated by snakes and we both enjoy the book. If you love learning about snakes and are fascinated by these amazing creatures, I urge you to buy the book. Worth the money !