Synopsis
Since the publication of "The Venomous Reptiles of Latin America" by Cornell University Press in 1989, scientific discoveries and taxonomic changes have resulted in the addition of many taxa and species to the herpetology of the Western Hemisphere. This updated, heavily rewritten, and greatly expanded version of that book now includes accounts of all 192 species of venomous snakes and lizards found in the Western Hemisphere. This two-volume set is illustrated with: 1500 colour photographs, including portraits of venomous reptiles - many of which are unique in showing newly discovered species and fresh views of male, female, and juvenile individuals - and images of snakebites, an important tool for the diagnosis and treatment of these injuries; eight colour vegetation and topographic maps; 161 black-and-white photographs; 109 line figures; and 113 completely revised black-and-white distribution maps. Volume I includes a table of contents, list of tables, preface, introduction, and regional/country accounts with related bilingual identification keys and vegetation and topographic maps.
Genus and species accounts in this volume treat all of the lizards, coralsnakes, and seasnakes; these accounts are accompanied by colour photographs of individual species. Volume II begins with the pitvipers, including all known species of rattlesnakes. This volume features four chapters by experts on mimicry, evolution, and snakebite treatment in tropical and temperate America. A glossary, literature-cited section and index serve both volumes. Colour photographs portray pitvipers, including rattlesnakes, and the damage done by snakebite. The two volumes form a reference for all naturalists interested in herpetology - amateurs impressed by the beauty and complexity of venomous reptiles as well as professional herpetologists and their students conducting research in the classroom, in the field, and at the zoo.