A revised and updated guide to reptiles and amphibians in the Great Lakes region

Ideal for hikers, adventurers, travelers and curious nature-lovers of all ages, On The Spot Nature Guides offer instant access to identifying information about plant and animal species in specific geographical regions. Reptiles & Amphibians of the Great Lakes Region includes photos of animals in their natural settings, descriptions of physical characteristics and habitats for at-a-glance identification, and details about the animals' diet and behaviors. Designed to fit easily into a pocket or backpack, the accordion-fold guides are lightweight and laminated for durability, and include a unique click-lock closure to keep the guide neatly folded when not in use.

Holman uniquely bridges the gap between neo- and paleoherpetology and shows that Michigan's modern herpetofaunas reflect Pleistocene (ice age) and Holocene (warm period after the ice age) events, as the entire modern population was forced to re-invade the state after the last withdrawal of ice. In Part 1, Holman discusses Michigan as an amphibian and reptile habitat, including a geological, climatic, and vegetational history. Part 2 presents recent species accounts, covering all fifty-four species of amphibians and reptiles, along with their general distribution, Michigan distribution (with range maps), geographic variation, habitat and habits, reproduction and growth, diet, predation and defense, interaction with humans, behavioral characteristics, population health, and general remarks. In Part 3, Holman examines the Michigan herpetofauna in Quaternary and recent historical times and the species accounts include Pleistocene, Holocene, and archaeological records.

"This guide reviews familiar species found in nearshore habitats throughout the Great Lakes region. Most illustrations show the adult male in breeding coloration"--Back panel