Book Review - A Field Guide to the Larger Mammals of South America - Princeton University Press (WILDGuides)

     This is an excellent field guide of the type only made possible by the advent of digital photography, and the simple fact that almost everyone today travels with a camera. At the very least we all have the camera on our phone, now delivering amazing resolution; but reasonably priced, more sophisticated equipment is within the budget of many, and on any given wildlife tour there is no shortage of picture-taking eco tourists. 

     It is the dedication of these photographers and their willingness to allow their pictures to be published that facilitates the production of a guide such as this. Their participation provides a greater choice of high quality images and photographs of rare, cryptic and nocturnal species.

     It is very useful to have the entire continent covered in one volume, especially since many wildlife watchers visit more than one country on a single tour, and one does not have to lug around different books for several destinations. The only downside to this convenience is that the book weighs a hefty 1.1kg.

     Each species is covered by at least one excellent photograph, a range map, a code indicating its conservation status, a description, notes as to similar species, its habitat and distribution; in other words, all you need to know to identify the mammal in the field. This guide makes no claim to furnishing more detailed information on life style, food choices, breeding biology and other such matters.

     A substantial list of other references is included, however.

     South America harbours incredible mammal richness, but many species are imperilled due to all the familiar issues that confront wildlife today. Habitat loss is doubtless the most serious threat, but pollution of land, air and water also pose serious hazards, and some populations, Groves's Titi, for example, are critically endangered. In fact, a dismaying number of South American mammals are critically endangered, particularly primates.

     It is my fervent hope that excellent wildlife guides like this may stimulate concern among many to preserve and protect what we have left; better still to engender a whole new conservation ethic.  

     Political leaders need to wake up and appreciate the riches of their countries, and the economic potential of ecotourism. Time is running out, however.

A Field Guide to the Larger Mammals of South America - Princeton University Press (WILDGuides)

Richard Webb and Jeff Blincow

Paperback - US$49.95 - ISBN: 9780691174099

488 pages - 5.83 x 8.25 inches (14.58 x 20.625 cm)

500+ colour photographs- 100+ illustrations - 396 maps

Publication date: 25 June, 2024