Snakes - Chris Mattison

The only truly pocket-sized photographic guide to over 220 species of snake.

This Collins Gem is being reissued in flexibinding, providing the durability of a hardback with the flexibility of a paperback. The stylish new cover design will enliven this and 70 other bestselling Gems.

There are about 2500 species of snake, to be found mainly in the warmer parts of the world, though there are a handful of species which can be found in the British Isles. There are 400 species of venomous snake, though Australia is the only place which has more venomous snakes than harmless ones. Collins Gem Snakes is a comprehensive introduction to this intriguing area of natural history.

Each entry in the book includes:

A full-colour illustration and description of each species

Details of size, geographical distribution, habitat, breeding and food

Notes on similar species and, most importantly, whether or not the snake is venomous

The introduction covers the natural history of snakes, including information on anatomy, senses, reproduction and defence mechanisms.