Turtles of the Southeast

Seventy-five percent of the turtle species in the United States can be found in the Southeast. In fact, the region is second only to parts of Asia in its number of native turtles. Filled with more than two hundred colour photographs and written with a special focus on conservation, Turtles of the Southeast covers forty-five species of this nonthreatening, ancient lineage of long-lived reptiles.

Heavily illustrated, the book offers fact-filled descriptions of each species and its habitat. Species accounts include descriptions of adults and hatchlings; key identifiers such as size, distinctive characters and markings; land, river, pond, and wetland habitats; behaviours and activities; food and diet; reproduction; predators and defense; and conservation issues.

Also included is a wealth of general information about the importance of turtle conservation and the biology, diversity, and life history of turtles. Topics discussed are distinguishing turtle characteristics; differences among turtles, tortoises, and terrapins; shell structure and architecture; reproduction and longevity; turtle predators and defense mechanisms; and turtle activities such as basking, hibernation, aestivation, and seasonal movement.

Useful information about the interactions of humans and turtles is also covered: species that are likely to be commonly encountered, turtles as pets, and more. Clearly written, cleanly designed, and fun to use, the guide promotes a better understanding of the habitat needs of, and environmental challenges to, this fascinating group of animals.

Turtles of the Southeast provides in-depth descriptions of the forty-two native species, presents a conservation-oriented approach, and contains more than two hundred colour photographs. The book includes nearly forty distribution maps and offers clear descriptions of each species, highlighting differences in the appearance of young and mature turtles. Additionally, it features "Did You Know?" sidebars with interesting turtle facts, size charts, key identifiers, and details about habitat, behaviour and activity, food and feeding, reproduction, predators and defence, and conservation.