Scorpions of Southern Africa
by Jonathan Leeming



Softcover: R 125.00

Scorpions have captured the imagination of humans from early times, arousing a morbid interest that that no doubt stems from their venomous tendencies. Misunderstood and persecuted as they often are, it is only relatively recently that we have begun to understand their complex behaviour and biology.

This book, written by one who confesses to a passion for scorpions, describes in layman’s terms the way scorpions’ bodies are constructed, the strategies that enable them to survive harsh conditions, their use of venom and other aspects of their successful existence over millions of years. It will help amateur naturalists as well as professionals in associated fields to identify southern Africa’s rich scorpion fauna and, it is hoped, will shed new light on these secretive creatures.

The species included here are those most likely to be encountered. Many are readily identifiable with the naked eye and have very wide distributions. As far as possible, the book avoids complicated terminology and includes practical information on where to look for scorpions and how best to handle them.

 

Curious Creatures – Reptiles & Amphibians of Southern Africa
by Warren Schmidt



Softcover: R 75.00

What is the difference between a crocodile and an alligator? Can tortoises predict rain? Is the tiny Thread Snake a snake or a worm? This book answers these and other questions about the curious creatures that are the reptiles and amphibians of southern Africa. An easy and fascinating cover-to-cover read, Curious Creatures: Reptiles & Amphibians of Southern Africa provides information on the habitat, diversity, reproduction, and diet of these creatures. For those taking a short herpetological dip in the pages there are many curious facts highlighted in information panels and “Did you know?” boxes.

 

The South African Bushveld – A field guide from the Waterberg
by Lee Gutteridge



Softcover: R 500.00

This is the first comprehensive field guide to be published in South Africa that covers a broad cross-section of the most prominent species of flora and fauna of an area-specific region, all combined into one easy-to-use manual that can be used by tourists and professional field guides alike.

With over 1,800 colour photographs, sketches and diagrams describing nearly 1,000 species, laid out in accessible, colour-coded sections, everything you’ll need to know on a Bushveld safari is in here:

·          History, geology, habitats and ecology

·          Mammals

·          Mammalian diseases

·          Birds

·          Reptiles

·          Amphibians

·          Scorpions

·          Spiders

·          Butterflies and moths

·          Tracks and signs

·          Flowers

·          Trees

·          Grasses

·          Survival techniques

·          How to behave on a walking safari

Some of South Africa’s foremost experts in their particular disciplines have contributed to this guide, with Vincent Carruthers (amphibians), Louis du Preez (amphibians), Jonathan Leeming (scorpions and spiders), Louis Liebenberg (tracking), Hendri Coetzee (birds), Paul van Gaalen (birds), Jens Reissig (reptiles), Johan Marais (reptiles) and Frits van Oudtshoorn (grasses) being but a few of the renowned professionals who have so enthusiastically supported this project.

 

Baboon Spiders of Southern Africa - A Pictorial Guide
by Patrick Gildenhuys



Hardcover: R 475.00
Softcover:  R 350.00

A Pictorial Guide to the Baboon Spiders of Southern Africa is a celebration of the richness in diversity of theraphosids, commonly referred to as baboon spiders or tarantulas, across Southern Africa.

Offering the most comprehensive insight thus far into the little-known realm of the region's baboon spiders, this guide exposes these shy yet spectacular animals in their habitats in various localities around South Africa. It presents the photographs of hundreds of specimens of all colours and sizes, including some that are completely new to science and never been seen before, totally dispelling the perception that these extraordinary creatures are only brown and dull.

Hobbyists who keep tarantulas, those who appreciate or desire to protect theraphosids and even arachnophobes are invited to share in Patrick Gildenhuys' fascinating journey of discovery and experience the wonder of the astounding world of baboon spiders for themselves.