Florida is home to no fewer than 700 freshwater springs, more than any place in the world! From the famed manatee to the obscure freshwater jellyfish, the springs provide sustenance to an abundance of wild, marine and insect life. This beautiful guide features over 150 species, over 130 original illustrations, and includes listings of commonly and not-so-commonly encountered “critters” living in and near Florida’s springs.

Ohio’s wildlife has always played an important role in the history of human beings inhabiting the state. Native Americans depended on birds, mammals, and fish for sustenance and the state’s first Europeans came in search of Beaver and buckskins. Although the state’s wildlife is still an important resource for human consumption, wildlife is also increasingly important in today’s culture for its intrinsic, aesthetic value. For many Ohioans, the age-old traditions of hunting and fishing have been replaced by a desire to simply observe wildlife and experience nature. But most Ohioans are largely unaware of the diversity of species inhabiting their state. This volume is intended to provide an introduction to the state’s fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. In The Ohio Wildlife Encyclopedia, nationally known naturalist Scott Shupe has collected information on all the wildlife that reside in the Buckeye State. The first in a series of state wildlife encyclopedias, this book will be a handy, usable, layman’s guide to Ohio’s wildlife. Included are over 800 color photographs, depicting the different species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and fish, while also offering over 600 range maps to show their territory. Along with basic information for the biology of each animal, Shupe includes the size, habitat, and abundance of each species located in the state. Whether you’re a lover of the outdoors, photography, or are looking to learn more about your state, this comprehensive guide will teach you about the wonderful wildlife that covers the water, earth, and skies of Ohio.

The deepest and largest known springs in the world are found here in Florida. The photographs are the result of hundreds of hours under water. This new edition is completely updated to serve as a guide to Florida's many spring parks and their inhabitants. Vital for canoeists, kayakers, divers, snorkelers, and visitors.

"Dive into the colorful past of Florida's natural wonders! In this visual tour of the state's five largest springs, collector-extraordinaire Tim Hollis brings together postcards, advertisements, brochures, signs, flyers, and souvenirs from the early days of these popular roadside attractions. Since tourists first started visiting the Sunshine State, they were drawn to these liquid gems: Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, Rainbow Springs, Weeki Wachee Spring, and Homosassa Springs. Today the springs are protected as state parks and continue to lure tourists and nature lovers alike. Sit back and enjoy the eye-catching scenes of the mermaids, alligators, underwater mountains, and glass bottom and submarine boats that helped these unique parts of the natural landscape become must-see destinations"--

Featuring the state’s finest cold springs, Touring the Springs of Florida features full-color photos of each site and in-depth descriptions of the springs and surrounding areas. Whether you’re tubing, paddling, hiking, diving, or sightseeing, detailed maps, GPS coordinates, and thorough driving directions lead you every step of the way.

* Florida has the deepest & largest known springs in the world * A guided tour of these beautiful environments * Many rare underwater photographs, many of unique underwater species * Detailed descriptions & maps of Florida's major spring parks, including Silver Springs, Weeki Wachee & Wakulla Springs. DOUG STAMM has ventured camera in hand to the depths of lakes & oceans, joined Cousteau's team beneath winter ice in the Mississippi River, & traveled to the rain forests of the Amazon headwaters. His photographs have illustrated many articles & books. "This book is a perceptive & beautifully illustrated treatment of Florida's most spectacular natural asset - our incomparable springs & the fascinating biologic communities that inhabit them."--Dr. Archie Carr, University of Florida.

A rare collection of photographs that are the heart of The Springs of Florida was obtained over a period of many years. They are the result of hundreds of hours underwater, during both day and night, and in all seasons of the year. The many realms of fresh water that most often surround us are dark rivers, clouded ponds and the opaque depths of inland lakes. We cannot see into them or fathom the incessant activities of life that occurs throughout their depths. The many springs that jewel the landscape of Florida are ornate exceptions to an environment often veiled in obscurity. They are translucent openings to a dominion very rare: a crystalline and vibrant world of flowing fresh water that rises from the earth and reaches to the sea. Now in its fourth edition, The Springs of Florida brings updated research and discussion to readers interested not only in the ecosystem and environment, but also in preserving the springs and the creatures that reside there. Doug Stamm, prominent voice in the Florida springs community and professional diver/underwater photographer, aims to increase awareness about springs conservation as well as bring new updates to light in his text. With a combination of legacy and new photos throughout the book, readers will see first-hand how beautiful the springs are and learn why conservation efforts are needed now more than ever.