The animal most often associated with Louisiana, the American alligator, is but one among 147 amphibian and reptile species found in the state. From the ubiquitous green tree frog to the elusive slimy salamander, the variety of the state’s wildlife can be intriguing and overwhelming. In content that is both accessible to laypersons and relevant to herpetologists, Amphibians and Reptiles of Louisiana guides curious nature lovers and experienced biologists through a vast wealth of biodiversity.
Jeff Boundy and John L. Carr describe the general form, sizes, and color patterns of each of Louisiana’s species: 23 salamanders, 30 frogs and toads, 26 turtles, 12 lizards, 47 snakes, and one alligator, along with eight non-native species now found in the state. Supplemented by drawings of important anatomical features, each entry considers the species’ behavior, geographic range, populations, food and feeding habits, reproduction, and predators.
Useful identification keys to each genus, distribution maps, and color photographs serve as efficient visual aids. The authors offer techniques for locating amphibians and reptiles in their natural environments, as well as an illustrated summary of the landscape and habitats of Louisiana. Notation of endangered species and those of conservation concern is also included, along with a glossary and a list of additional references. With more than 780 color photographs and nearly 150 maps, this resource will enrich readers’ appreciation for Louisiana’s natural diversity and deepen their interest in the state’s complex ecology.
Jeff Boundy, a herpetologist with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, is the author of Snakes of Louisiana and coauthor of Snakes of the World: A Catalogue of Living and Extinct Species.
John L. Carr, professor of biology at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, is the coauthor of The Turtles and Crocodilians of the Tropical Andean Countries.
