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Hiking Trails of Southern Africa
R400.00Featuring over 500 trails, including 60 new trails, this fully revised and updated fifth edition of Hiking Trails of South Africa is an essential resource for every hiker. This extensive guide describes a variety of trails across magnificent landscapes, from the iconic daisy fields of Namaqualand and fynbos-clad coastal plains of the Western Cape to the high peaks of the Drakensberg and the escarpment beyond. There is a trail for everyone – from hour-long hikes close to civilization to overnight hikes of several days, and everything in-between.
– Trails to suit every level of fitness and ability
– Distance and average hiking time
– Facilities, accommodation and activities available
– Fully updated booking and permit information
– Points of interest and notes on flora and fauna
– Expert advice on planning, preparation, nutrition, equipment, first aid and general safetyAn inspiring guide for all hikers – from novice to expert
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An Illustrated Guide to Medicinal Plants of East Africa
R500.00Medicinal Plants of East Africa is the first photographically illustrated guide to showcase the most important healing plants of the region. e book describes 136 plant species in everyday use in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Brief descriptions of each species cover that plant’s appearance, ecology and specific medicinal uses. To aid identification, more than 600 colour photographs have been included. Also included are recipes for remedies to treat a wide range of ailments. An easy-to-understand summary of the science behind the treatments concludes each section.
Supplementary features:
– Introduction to the medicinal virtues and active ingredients of plants
– Common methods of preparing medicines from plant materials
– Summary of ailments and the plants prescribed to treat them
– Glossaries of medical and botanical terminology and extensive reference lists.Medicinal Plants of East Africa will appeal to ethnobotanists, health and wellness practitioners, travellers and all with an interest in the remarkable healing properties of plants.
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Protect our planet – take action with Romario
R200.00Meet Romario Valentine, an 11-year-old eco-warrior from Durban, South Africa. Through his tree planting, beach clean-ups, avian art and other conservation projects in Africa and other parts of the world, this young activist has become a dynamic campaigner for the future health of our planet. In Protect our Planet, Romario enthusiastically guides young nature lovers through key environmental topics – from recycling and reforestation to pollution solutions and climate change.
Topics covered in this book overlap with the Foundation Phase curriculum, and include:– The relationship between people and the environment
– Renewable resources, such as solar power
– Forestation and why trees matter
– Types of pollution and the problem with plastic
– Reducing, reusing and recycling
– Climate change
– The importance of clean water
– Craft ideas, art activities and backyard projects -
Burchell’s African Odyssey
R470.00The English naturalist William Burchell set from Cape Town in June 1811 to explore the flora and fauna of the vast southern African interior. Over a four-year period, and travelling in a custom-built ox wagon, he amassed an astonishing 63 000 specimens of plants, bulbs, insects, reptiles and mammals – many not previously documented for science – and produced more than 500 paintings and illustrations. While the outbound trek is well described in Burchell’s famous Travels in the Interior of Southern Africa, the challenges
and discoveries made on his return journey to Cape Town, from 1812-1815 have not been described. In Burchell’s African Odyssey, authors Roger Stewart and Marion Whitehead embark on a similarly daunting task – to reveal the homeward leg of
Burchell’s epic trek from the southern Kalahari via the Karoo and southern coastal belt back to Cape Town. Drawing on primary and secondary sources, including Burchell’s letters, his handwritten records archived at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and the detailed
map he created to record his trek, the authors have crafted a thought-provoking and beautifully illustrated account that encompasses both the genius of the man and the natural history of the region that so intrigued him. -
Two Oceans: A guide to the Marine Life of Southern Africa
R610.00More than 2,200 species are described in this expanded, fully revised edition, which includes an additional 125 species, 260 updated species names, 190 new photographs and revised distribution maps. Bursting with life and vibrant in colour, Two Oceans is a celebration of the extraordinary diversity of life that inhabits the sea and surrounding coastline. For over 25 years, this award-winning guide has been the pre-eminent book to which scientists, students, beachcombers and divers turn to identify and learn about marine life, from sponges to fishes, birds to whales and seaweeds to dune forests.
Key features include:
– Expanded and revised: 125 species added and 190 new photographs
– Accurate and up-to-date distribution maps
– Spectacular full-colour photographs
– Highly accomplished author teamThe authors, George and Margo Branch, Charles Griffiths and Lynnath Beckley are internationally acclaimed award-winning scientists with a passion for communicating the rich diversity of our marine world.
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A Complete Guide to the Snakes of Southern Africa
R580.00This long-awaited third edition of A Complete Guide to the Snakes of Southern Africa has been updated, revised and expanded. New information based on scientific research relating to behaviour, identification, reproduction and snake venoms has been included in the species accounts. Features of this book:
– Covers all essential aspects of snake biology and behaviour.
– Species descriptions are accompanied by full-colour photographs and distribution maps.
– Simple icons make essential information available at a glance.
– A separate ‘key features’ box assists in quickly identifying species in the field.
– Chapters on classification and identification, keeping snakes, and the treatment of snakebite supplement the species accounts. -
‘n Volledige gids tot die slange van Suider-afrika
R580.00Hierdie langverwagte derde uitgawe van ‘n Volledige Gids tot die Slange van Suider-Afrika is ten volle opgedateer. Nuwe inligting gebasseer op wetenskaplike navorsing is ingesluit, en hou verband met gedrag, identifikasie, voortplanting en gif. Kenmerke van hierdie boek:
– Dek al die noodsaaklike aspekte van biologie en slang gedrag.
– Spesies se beskrywings word vergesel van volkleur fotos en verspreidingskaarte.
– Eenvoudige simbole maak belangrike inligting dadelik beskikbaar.
– ‘n Aparte ‘Kyk uit vir’ blokkie help om spesies in die veld gou te identifiseer.
– Hoofstukke oor klassifikasie en identifikasie, aanhou van slange, en die behandeling van slangbyte vul die inligting aan. -
Hiking Cape Town
R350.00The mountains and forests in and around Cape Town are a hiker’s paradise, offering an array of excursions to suit both new converts and seasoned mountain climbers.
Hiking Cape Town covers 35 exciting hikes on the Cape Peninsula and further afield, ranging from easy to moderate, with several more demanding trails for those who want to up their game. From classic hikes up the front face of Table Mountain and half-day hikes in the remote Cape Point, to gentle rambles along the coast and walks in mountains and nature reserves a short drive from the city, this book encompasses the area’s must-do routes.Each description specifies the approximate walking time, distance, difficulty rating and terrain. More challenging extensions to some of the routes are provided for a more strenuous workout. Full-colour maps and photographs illustrate the routes, and information boxes offer insights into interesting aspects of the specific trails.
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Geological Highlights of East African National Parks
R480.00The national parks and reserves of East Africa are widely known for their rich and abundant wildlife. This book presents a new and exciting angle – the geological highlights of the region’s intriguing landscape. East Africa’s cataclysmic volcanic legacy, caused by rifting of the landmass, has resulted in a rich source of geological wonders. These range from the seemingly endless, peaceful plains of the Serengeti to the stark skyscraper walls of extinct calderas and the belching vents of the Nyiragongo Volcano.
This handy guide escorts users around all the major – and some minor – parks of Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, and the Virunga Mountains along the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Descriptions of each park and its wildlife, both fauna and flora, preface discussion of the geological origins, influences and current conditions. Key geosites in the parks, and how to access them, are indicated. Maps, satellite images and diagrams, along with vivid photography, help explain the dramatic landforms.
For anyone planning a safari to the legendary East African game parks and reserves, this book adds an exciting new dimension. -
Field Guide to the Amaryllis Family of Southern Africa and Surrounding Territories
R500.00The Amaryllidaceae family is distributed in warm temperate and tropical parts of the world. With 18 genera and 265 taxa occurring in the region, southern Africa is recognised as a major centre of diversity for this intriguing family. This compelling guide features all the species found in the region, conveniently grouped according to the biome of their natural habitat, and includes a useful key to genera and species.
Species accounts feature:
– Comprehensive text suitable for laypersons and scientists
– Information on distribution, similar taxons, life cycle and flowering period
– Notes on cultivation, history, medicinal properties and conservation
– Distribution maps
– Colour photographs and watercolour platesAn invaluable addition to the library of any plant or nature lover.
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Minerals and Gemstones of Southern Africa
R580.00Southern Africa is home to many important and interesting minerals, as well as a wide array of beautiful gemstones – including diamonds from South Africa, emeralds from Zimbabwe and tourmalines from Namibia. Minerals & Gemstones of Southern Africa is not only the most up-to-date publication on the minerals of Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, southern Mozambique and Zimbabwe, but also the first to feature the region’s gemstones. Mineral species descriptions detail their gemological properties, history, occurrence and uses, and are illustrated with striking fullcolour photographs. The book includes:
– An introduction to the geology of the region
– Detailed descriptions of minerals, including their gemological properties, history, occurrence and uses
– Multiple full-colour photographs of the species -
World of African Wildlife
R220.00How does a gemsbok stay cool in the desert? Why should you never pick up a bullfrog? Which predators have the cleverest hunting techniques? Why do animals leave droppings in the veld? The answers to these and many other questions can be found in this informative and entertaining book for young nature lovers. Jam-packed with fascinating facts and photographs of animals in the wild, it introduces younger readers to the wide diversity of Africa’s wildlife, from mammals and birds to reptiles and insects, and much more. Additional fact boxes, did-you-knows and fun activities make this a book that can be enjoyed over and over again – whether at home or on an African safari.
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Die wilde wereld van Afrika
R220.00Hoe bly gemsbokke koel in die woestyn? Waarom moet jy nooit ‘n brulpadda optel nie? Watter roofdiere het die slimste jagtaktieke? Waar los wie hul dieremis? Ontdek die antwoorde tot die vrae (en baie ander) in hierdie interessante, prettige boek vir jong natuurliefhebbers. Propvol feite, foto’s van Afrika se diverse natuurlewe (van soogdiere en voels tot reptiele en insekte) en toets-jou-kennis-aktiwiteite. ‘n Interessante, lekkerlees-boek wat die jongspan oor en oor kan geniet – by die huis of in die wildtuin.
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Stuarts’ Field Guide to National Parks and Game Reserves – Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi
R450.00The first guide ever to document and explore the diverse parks and reserves of Africa’s ‘middle belt’, it covers Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi. The region contains prized spots such as the world-famous landscapes of the Namib and Kalahari deserts, Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls and Lake Malawi, and some of Africa’s best-known conservation areas, including Etosha, Chobe, Mana Pools, Hwange, Kafue and Nyika.
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Grasses of East Africa
R400.00Grasses of East Africa describes 100 species of common, ecologically important or remarkable grasses found in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi. Grasses comprise one of the largest plant families on Earth, but are possibly the most overlooked. Yet it is these ubiquitous and important plants that have the greatest impact on our daily lives – providing a wide range of staple foods for humans globally, a fundamental source of grazing for livestock, and food and shelter for an infinite variety of wildlife.
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Quick ID Guide to the Carnivores of Africa
R100.00Of all the animal groups, none looms larger in the imagination than the carnivores. Adapted for hunting and killing other animals, they represent the most powerful predators on Earth. This compact guide covers both the mighty and ferocious – big cats, wolves, foxes and hyaenas – and a variety of smaller but equally formidable hunters – otters, polecats, weasels, mongooses and civets.
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Quick ID Guide to Primates of Africa
R100.00A new addition to the successful ‘Quick ID guide’ series, Primates is a succinct survey of the features and habits of our closest relatives. Divided into the three main primate groups – great apes, typical monkeys and prosimians (including the bushbabies) – this easy-to-use guide rovides pertinent facts, annotated photographs and up-to-date distribution maps to help readers accurately identify the most commonly seen and charismatic primates in the field.
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First Field Guide: Fishes of Southern Africa
R130.00Sasol First Field Guide to Fishes of Southern Africa is a fascinating guide to the fishes of the region.
These natural history guides have been developed to encourage young people and anyone with a budding interest in natural history to learn about the wonders of southern Africa’s fascinating fauna and flora. They are an invaluable resource for the beginner, providing information at a glance: each of the species presented is described in easy-to-read text, with a photograph and distribution map. A short introduction gives context to the topic. These compact guides come in a handy pocket size and are easy to use in the field – and make ideal gifts for children or beginners in the field.
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Marine Mammals: A guide to the whales, dolphins and seals of Southern Africa and the Southern Ocean
R210.00This easy-to-use identification guide to the whales, dolphins and seals found in Southern African waters and the Southern Ocean is compact yet comprehensive. Close to 50 species occur in the region: from the demonstrative Humpback Whale and Dusky Dolphin to the striking Leopard Seal and massive Blue Whale.
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Snakes and other Reptiles of Zambia and Malawi
R580.00Zambia and Malawi are home to 240 known snake, lizard, terrapin, tortoise and crocodile species. Snakes and other Reptiles of Zambia and Malawi is the first field guide to describe every species of reptile known to occur in this region – including 14 endemics and several new discoveries.
– Comprehensive descriptions of each order, suborder, family, genus and species.
– Species descriptions cover identifying features, behaviour, prey and predators, reproduction, range, and danger to humans.
– Accounts are supported by stunning colour photographs and up-to-date distribution maps that draw on over 16,000 recorded observations.
– Dichotomous identi cation keys guide users to the correct genus and species.
– Introduction includes clear diagrams of morphological features and unpacks the region’s biogeography and diverse habitat types, di erent venom types and the basic principles of snakebite treatment. -
The Living Deserts of Southern Africa
R600.00For generations, the deserts of southern Africa have intrigued scientists and travellers alike. Seemingly barren wastes, they in fact teem with life – from ants to elephants, stone plants to the curious welwitschia, dainty dik-diks to towering gemsbok, and cart-wheeling spiders to fog-basking beetles. How do they cope with scarce resources, unpredictable rainfall and extreme temperatures? How do they protect themselves against predators? And what is the impact of climate change on these life forms and their habitats?
Drawing on an earlier edition, published in 1993, biologist Barry Lovegrove answers these questions and unravels many of the mysteries associated with life in the desert. He describes the four arid biomes of South Africa, Namibia and Botswana –
Desert, Arid Savanna, Succulent Karoo and Nama-Karoo – and explains how and why such a great diversity of plants, insects, mammals, reptiles and birds successfully exist in these regions. The text is supported by the most recent research, spectacular photographs, and explanatory diagrams and maps.The Living Deserts of Southern Africa is a compelling, in-depth read that is accessible to both the serious student and academic as well as the interested nature lover.
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Saunders Field Guide to Gladioli of Southern Africa
R580.00The genus Gladiolus has fascinated plant collectors, taxonomists and the general public for centuries. Known for their spectacular flowers, these highly adapted and specialised plants occur throughout Africa, Madagascar, Europe and the Middle East. South Africa is home to more than half of the world’s Gladiolus species and the Western Cape is the heart of species diversity. Saunders’ Field Guide to Gladioli of South Africa is the first of its kind to offer a complete photographic record of the 166 species that occur in the region. Posthumously completed, this book is the culmination of the Saunders’ long search to find and photograph every known species of Gladiolus in South Africa. It includes:
– An introduction comprising a brief history of gladioli, information about the morphology and taxonomy of the genus, and guidelines for use in the field.
– Detailed descriptions of the main floral parts of each species, along with information about ecology, pollinators, similar species and conservation status; field notes were written by Rachel Saunders.
– Over 1,000 exquisite photographs taken in situ detailing morphology and habitat.
– Up-to-date distribution maps indicating where species have been recorded.
– A glossary of terms with illustrations unpacking difficult terminology.
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A Pocket Guide to Sharks of the World
R400.00Sharks are some of the most misunderstood animals on the planet. We still have much to learn about these fascinating creatures, but time is running out: sharks are more seriously threatened with extinction and in greater need of conservation and management than any other major group of vertebrates.
A Pocket Guide to Sharks of the World is the only field guide to identify, illustrate and describe every known shark species. Its compact format makes it handy for many situations, including recognising living species, fishery catches, or parts sold at markets. This expanded second edition presents lavish images, details on newly discovered species, and updated text throughout. It contains useful sections on the ID of shark teeth and shark fins most commonly encountered in the fin trade, and takes a look at shark biology, ecology and conservation.
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Shaping Addo: The Story of a Southern African National Park
R440.00More than a century ago elephants in the eastern Cape were systematically hunted – until only 16 were left . Today there are 650 elephants in the Addo Elephant National Park, the densest concentration of wild elephants anywhere on the planet. While elephants are undoubtedly still the park’s top drawcard, the past four decades have seen the emphasis shift from protecting a single species to conserving five biomes and the wild animals that occupy them. Today, Addo can boast the Big Seven: elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, as well as great white shark and southern right whale.
Like Shaping Kruger, its successful predecessor, Shaping Addo expertly delves into the history of the park, detailing the positive impact that changing conservation practices have had on its development. Drawing on decades of groundbreaking research, the author provides fascinating insight into the lives and habits of the animals (both terrestrial and marine), examining individual species, the relationship between them, and the carefully crafted management strategies required to ensure the survival of all species.
Shaping Addo is an engrossing account of how a seemingly insigni cant sanctuary was transformed into an astonishingly successful mega-park, and the most ecologically diverse protected space in South Africa.
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Palaces of Stone
R320.00Across the face of southern Africa are more than 460 remarkable stone palaces – some small, others rambling, but many are astonishing. All are the legacy of kingdoms past.
Some, such as Great Zimbabwe, Khami in Botswana and Mapungubwe in South Africa, are famous world heritage sites, but the majority are unknown to the general public, unsung and unappreciated.
Palaces of Stone brings to life the history of various early African societies, from AD 900 to approximately 1850. By exploring a selection of known and unknown sites, the authors uncover the emergence of ancient civilisations and reconstruct the meaning of the ruins they left behind. Woven into the narrative are stories of powerful political states; ourishing local economies; long-distance trade; and the destruction wrought by colonialism and modern-day treasure hunters. This book will appeal to anyone interested in Africa’s ancient heritage.
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Pocket Guide Birds of Zambia
R280.00This pocket-sized, easy-to-use guide to the birds of Zambia features 425 birds likely to be seen in the region, plus a few ‘specials’ sought after by birders. It is an invaluable introduction and guide for visitors to Zambia with its 20 national parks and 42 Important Bird Areas.
Features include:
– An informative introduction to birding in the region, including habitat descriptions and a glossary
– Full-colour photographs illustrating diagnostic features and plumage differences
– Concise identification text, including key ID pointers, call description and favoured habitat of each species
– Up-to-date distribution maps.Lightweight and handy for use in the field, this will be an excellent guide for anyone interested in the birds of Africa.
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Pollinators, Predators & Parasites
R680.00Pollinators, parasites, predators, decomposers – insects arguably play the most important roles in the functioning of the Earth’s ecosystems.
This lavishly illustrated and highly authoritative book is structured around southern Africa’s 13 distinct biomes; it
- reflects the essential role insects play in most ecological processes such as pollination, predation, parasitism, soil modification and nutrient recycling;
- details how they serve as food for multitudes of other organisms, including bacteria and fungi, as well as specially adapted plants, insect-feeding arthropods, reptiles, birds and mammals;
- depicts the insects and phenomena described in some 1,600 photographs that accompany the accessible text;
- highlights the crucial role insects play as ecosystem service providers, giving intimate insight into the beauty and importance of insects in the natural world.
- includes a guide to each of the 25 insect orders found in southern Africa, with images showing their diagnostic characters.
This key publication detailing the latest research in the field of entomology will appeal to academics and nature enthusiasts alike.
Also available in E-book format
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Southern African LBJs Made Simple
R370.00Now updated and expanded,  Southern African LBJs Made Simple  offers a unique method for identifying and distinguishing the cryptic little birds that are known as ‘little brown jobs’. Using a three-stage process, the book guides readers through successive stages, each of which takes them closer to identifying the bird in question. As calls play a critical role in identification of these birds, individual calls and comparative tracks are included.
The book features:
- NEW BIRD CALL ACCESS – instant access to calls using free downloadable call app to scan barcodes on the species pages
- Concise text describing key ID criteria (such as size, habitat, habits, call and similar-looking and -sounding birds)
- Updated distribution maps and carefully labelled illustrations.
This enhanced and updated new edition will be an invaluable guide for anyone who wants to be able to tell one LBJ from another.
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Walking Safaris
R360.00South Africa has a unique set of characteristics that make walking safaris in big game areas one of the safest and most rewarding outdoor experiences: a huge expanse of protected habitat richly populated with wildlife; excellent tourism facilities; a favourable climate; and expertly trained trail guides. Seasoned hikers, Hlengiwe Magagula and Denis Costello cover more than 50 guided walks across 21 parks and reserves in South Africa (including two in eSwatini and one in Botswana). They unpack the options available in each park, from short dawn and dusk walks and multi-day wilderness trails to backpacking trails that span several days. Facilities range from ultra-luxurious to ‘wild camping’, either in tents or under the stars. Also included is a series of first-hand accounts that vividly illustrate the magical experience of exploring the bush on foot. An advisory section gives a rundown of when to go, what to pack, what to wear, and the dos and don’ts of walking in areas with big game.
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Pangolins: Scales of Injustice
R230.00Smuggled into China and sold for meat in the live-animal markets of cities such as Wuhan, the pangolin has dominated world headlines. Is it the vector for Covid-19?
Pangolins have long been sustainably harvested by local communities for their meat and scales, but today the burgeoning trade in these mammals has reached crisis point. Eight pangolin species occur worldwide, four in Asia and four in Africa, and all face extinction if current rates of hunting and trading continue unabated.
Now the spotlight is on the world’s most trafficked mammal. Scientists have identified pangolins as the likely source of the coronavirus infection that has brought the world to its knees. This multi-trillion dollar disaster makes pangolins the most expensive meals ever eaten.
In this timely expose, Richard Peirce unpacks the horrors and dangers of the trade in this enigmatic, little-known mammal. He explains the links between wildlife and Covid-19, and details China’s response to the pandemic.
He also tells the story of a particular pangolin poached in Zimbabwe and brought to South Africa to be traded. Readers accompany an agent of the African Pangolin Working Group, assisted by the local police, on an actual sting operation to rescue the animal and capture the traffickers. And they follow the subsequent progress of the rescued pangolin, from near death to rehabilitation and release into the wild.
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Dinosaurs of Africa
R190.00African dinosaurs are no less significant than their ‘celebrity’ cousins, such as T. rex, and they are just as magnificent and fascinating. Their fossils have been discovered across the continent – from the Sahara Desert to the Karoo.
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West Coast
R370.00Leon Nell’s sixth book to explore another captivating part of South Africa reveals a bounty of treasures that give the West Coast, or Weskus as locals call it, its particular allure.
Beginning at Melkbosstrand just north of Cape Town, and ending where the Orange River meets the Atlantic Ocean, the book divides the coastal stretch into four discrete and easily explored regions. Coastal and inland towns are described, together with their main attractions, offering glimpses into early human history, local culture and traditions, nature and wildlife, and modern-day economic pursuits.
SOUTH encompasses the Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve, various wildflower reserves, Darling, Evita se Perron and !Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre
CENTRAL covers Yzerfontein and the West Coast National Park, including Langebaan Lagoon, Eve’s Footprints, Postberg Flower Reserve and Saldanha
NORTH explores the celebrated fishing industry at Velddrif, St Helena Bay and Elands Bay, and archaeological discoveries in the area
DIAMOND COAST spans Doringbaai, Vredendal, Port Nolloth, Kleinzee and Alexander Bay.
Framed by the Atlantic in the west and the winding N7 highway in the east, the West Coast is a place of varied landscapes and vast contrasts: from moody and at times tempestuous seas and windswept beaches, to verdant vineyards and kaleidoscopic swathes of wildflowers in spring. Wild yet tranquil, playful yet contemplative, dramatic yet understated – its eclectic offering beckons residents and travellers alike.
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Skullduggery – Quick ID Guide
R100.00In this short but informative guide, trusted authors Chris and Mathilde Stuart turn mammal ID on its head – literally. The identification of mammal skulls is the subject of this latest addition to the quirky ‘Quick Guide’ series, and covers the most common skulls readers are likely to encounter in the wild – from easily recognisable species such as elephant, hippo, rhino, baboons, antelope, whales and dolphins, to the more challenging family groups: dogs, cats, hyaenas, equids, pigs, civets and genets, mongooses, rats and mice, bats, sengis, shrews, moles, hares and rabbits, hyrax, and squirrels.
Each entry features:
Close-up photographs showing the entire skull, teeth and, where available, upper and lower jaws
Pointers to diagnostic features
Average measurement for skull length
Short description highlighting main features of each skull and tooth structure
Dental formula for teeth in upper and lower jaws
A brief introduction, with labelled photographs, covers anatomy as well as dentition; and a quick-reference photographic key to the main animal groups appears on the inside front cover.An ideal companion to mammal field guides, this book will be appeal to rangers, safari guides and all nature lovers wanting to deepen their understanding of life in the bush.
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Flying Mammals – Quick ID Guide to Bats
R100.00Following the success of earlier ‘Quick Guide’ books, this slim little volume tackles one of the few groups of mammals that can fly. Divided into large fruit bats and smaller insecteating bats, this ultimate quick identification guide covers Africa’s 12 bat families. An informative introduction touches on evolution, flight, echolocation and reproduction, demystifying an animal that is all too often misunderstood. The text describes the facial characteristics and wing shapes common to each family and points out features that can help to distinguish between them. But it is the photographs and annotated line drawings that are most useful for identification. They include bats in flight and roosting sites, and close-ups of facial structures and wings that highlight key diagnostic attributes. An added extra is a photographic section showing the skulls of a variety bats.
This is a valuable guide for anyone with an interest in wildlife and its less common members.
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Avian Architects Quick ID Guide
R100.00Another title in the ‘Quick Guide’ series, this compact little book is a handy identification guide to the surprising variety of nests built by southern African birds. Covering multiple species, it is arranged according to nest type – ground, woven, stick, cup, mud-pellet and domed, as well as nests in tree holes, on water, on cliffs and in scrapes on the ground. It is packed with photographs and illustrations showing the ingenuity of the designs, the birds that built them, and the eggs that are laid in them. In pithy fashion, the text – matched to the photographs – describes:
nesting site and nest structure
building materials used to construct outer and inner layers
nesting habits of the architects
clutch sizeA simple key to nest types on the inside front cover directs readers to the relevant section in the book.
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African Wildlife Colouring Book
R220.00Why do elephants flap their ears? Which big cat leaps into the air to catch birds? Which moth has large eyespots on its wings to scare away predators? Which bird’s call sounds like a soft chuckle? The answers to these questions can be found in this delightful colouring book, which will provide hours of enjoyment and colouring fun. There are 128 animals to colour in, each illustration providing budding artists and inquisitive children with interesting facts as they work through the book.
