Identifies and describes amphibians & reptiles found in Pennsylvania.

Though Pennsylvania receives the most emphasis here, readers will find references to all of the northeastern US. A wide audience will find this a useful resource, including professional and amateur herpetologists, students, and amateur naturalists. As in a field guide, the amphibians and reptiles are described in detail to aid identification. The text goes far beyond a simple field guide, however, containing substantial treatment of the habitat, habits, reproduction, and distribution of each species with additional remarks on taxonomic status, behavior, appearance and conservation. Color photos of each species are included. Two of the authors are curators for museums of natural history, the third teaches biology at Indiana U. of Pennsylvania. c. Book News Inc.

Rattlers & Snappers is a must-have book for anyone interested in reptiles and amphibians, but its more than that. No other book contains such an eclectic mix of natural history, husbandry, harvest, taxidermy, and tales. This book discusses the life history of fascinating animals such as rattlesnakes, snapping turtles, and hellbenders. It teaches you how to handle and keep snakes and how to raise rats, mice, and bugs. It presents the firsthand accounts of noted naturalists and legendary wardens along with tales of outlaws and reptile poachers. It also offers techniques on catching and cooking turtles and on preserving the dead. This book was written for the Conservation Officers of Pennsylvania Association (COPA). All royalties from the sale of this book are used to support youth environmental education programs.