Book Description

Prepared by two of Missouri's most distinguished conservationists, The Wild Mammals of Missouri has been the definitive guide to mammals of this state for over forty years. Now the University of Missouri Press is pleased to release an updated edition, revised by Elizabeth R. Schwartz, reflecting the changes in Missouri's mammalian fauna and including the latest taxonomic revisions. Maintaining the original's successful format and the language that made the book accessible to both professional and lay readers, the revised edition incorporates throughout new knowledge of the various species of mammals of Missouri. Most notable is the addition of a new resident species, the nine-banded armadillo. Several other taxonomic and distributional changes are reflected and the range maps have been revised to show significant changes. Charles Schwartz's meticulously rendered drawings capture the spirit of his subjects while remaining technically accurate. These drawings range from fully rendered portraits to illustrations of dentition and skulls, tracks, and other identifying characteristics, to vignettes showing the mammals engaged in characteristic behaviors. Also included in this volume are discussions of all biological and ecological aspects of the mammals including distribution and abundance, habitat and home, habits, food, reproduction, adversities faced, and conservation and management concerns. The Schwartzes' lifelong dedication to state and national conservation and their vast biological knowledge are apparent throughout the pages of this attractive reference guide. People of all ages and backgrounds will find The Wild Mammals of Missouri an invaluable guide to the study of Missouri's mammals.