Snakes of Arizona (special leatherbound limited edition)

Pp. xix, 837, (1, colophon); 360+ color photos of snakes and habitats, 35 full-page color distribution maps of Arizona.  Full black leather, lettered in gilt on the spine and on the front cover with color photo inlay of a snake on the front, housed in black leather-covered hard slipcase lettered in gilt on the spine and on the front and rear covers, centrally placed silver emblem of a map of Arizona with black snake motif on both covers, with original cardboard shipping box, lg 4to.  This special leatherbound edition is limited to 150 copies only.  The foreword by Harry W. Greene and the illustrations are by Randall D. Babb.  The volume is written for naturalists and professional biologists, resource managers, teachers and students alike; this essential book examines all aspects of the biology of Arizona’s snakes, as supported by a complete review of the primary and gray scientific literature plus a trove of previously unpublished data and observations.  Fifty-nine peer-reviewed species accounts authored by leading authorities comprise the heart of this elegant and beautiful opus.  Each account describes one snake species and discusses its taxonomy, distribution and abundance, habitat, diet and foraging biology, predators and parasites, behavior, and reproduction.  The book is exquisitely illustrated with over 390 figures and photographs. Introductory chapters eloquently describe Arizona’s biotic communities, the need for action to conserve species, and other useful topics.  Dot distribution maps for each species, based on vouchered records, are gathered in a concluding chapter.  This essential reference comes complete with over 3,170 unique literature citations, inviting the reader to further explore the captivating world of the snakes of Arizona (from the advertising blurb).  No ownership marks and no signs of use.