Handbook of Reptiles and Amphibians of Florida

This book provides color photographs as well as a range map for each species listed. The detailed drawings on locomation and the different methods of movement also helps in understanding how snakes do what they do. The brief section on the workings of serpentine anatomy provide relevant information for those interested in the natural history and evolution of snakes. It also provides information for many of the sub-species found in Florida, which is something that other general field guides tent to overlook. This book came highly recommended by an expert florida herpetologist. The beginner will find the detailed photographs as well as the range maps a must for identifying the many species of snakes found throughout Florida. The intermediate hobbyist will find the taxonimic listing as well as natural history indespensible in the field when trying to locate the elusive varieties of serpents. This book is really somewhat of a natural history text, as well as a field guide wrapped up in one. Its small size makes it easy to carry into the field, where it would be used most. It could be considered slightly dated, as the classification of some of the snakes as endangered or species of special concern has changed, the identification information has not. I bought the book used, so an updated version may be out.

Provides color pictures, descriptions, range maps, and habitat information for each species of snake in Florida. The authors also describe similar species, natural history, and reproduction for each species. The book contains information (photos/description) of various FL environments (e.g. mangroves, cypress swamps,hammocks, pine flatwoods). Charts included provide abundance of each species in various environments. Good basic description on snake senses & locomotion. I plan to buy parts 2 & 3!

Allowed me to positively identify many species in my area -- far better descriptions and pictures than any other book I've seen.