A Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Egypt

Front Cover
Oxford University Press, 2006 - Nature - 359 pages
Reptiles and amphibians are among Egypt's most successful wildlife, found in almost every habitat in the country, from homes to fields and the desert itself. For the first time, A Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Egypt provides concise, reliable, and up-to-date information on all of Egypt's principal species, with detailed material on their taxonomy, identification, natural history, and ecology. Based on fifteen years of fieldwork, this guide is a valuable tool for experts and amateurs alike in the identification, study, and conservation of these fascinating animals. With an easy-to-use key, high-quality maps, and over 100 color illustrations, this field guide covers 110 species--including tortoises and turtles, lizards, snakes, and crocodiles--found in Egypt. Each entry contains concise information about the species, including English, Latin, and Arabic names; world and Egypt distribution; distinguishing features; habitat and ecology; behavior; and conservation status. Included too are line drawings to illustrate key identification features and differences between species. With a comprehensive bibliography for further research, the guide supplies the accuracy and scientific rigor that scientists look for, while providing an accessible approach for generalists and amateurs. For biologists, nature lovers, and anyone interested in Egypt's rich natural heritage, A Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Egypt is an ideal reference tool.
 

Contents

The Egyptian Setting
1
Evolution of Egypts Landscape and Its Herpetofauna
3
The Contemporary Egyptian Herpetofauna
7
Herpetofaunal Habitats of Egypt
13
Conservation
19
Methodology
21
Amphibia
25
Bufonidae
27
Leptotyphlopidae
227
Boidae
235
Colubridae
241
Elapidae
291
Atractaspididae
299
Viperidae
303
Order CROCODYLIA Crocodiles
317
Order TESTUDINES Turtles and Tortoises
321

Ranidae
37
Hylidae
47
Reptilia
51
Gekkonidae
53
Agamidae
115
Chamaeleonidae
139
Lacertidae
147
Varanidae
191
Scincidae
197
Suborder SERPENTES Snakes
215
Typhlopidae
219
Testudinidae
323
Chelonidae
329
Dermochelyidae
337
Trionychidae
341
Emydidae
345
Gazetteer of Egyptian Localities
349
Glossary
355
Bibliography
357
Index
379
Copyright

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About the author (2006)

Sherif Baha el Din holds a Ph.D. in ecology and is an advisor to the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency. He is the author of several books, including The Common Birds of Egypt (AUC Press, 1984).

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