The Last Tortoise

The Last Tortoise
Author: Craig Stanford
Publisher: Harvard University Press
Total Pages: 248
Release: 2010-05-15
Genre: Nature
ISBN: 9780674049925

Tortoises may be the first family of higher animals to become extinct in the coming decades. They are losing the survival race because of what distinguishes them, in particular their slow, steady pace of life and reproduction. The Last Tortoise offers an introduction to these remarkable animals and the extraordinary adaptations that have allowed them to successfully populate a diverse range of habitats—from deserts to islands to tropical forests. The shields that protect their shoulders and ribs have helped them evade predators. They are also safeguarded by their extreme longevity and long period of fertility. Craig Stanford details how human predation has overcome these evolutionary advantages, extinguishing several species and threatening the remaining forty-five. At the center of this beautifully written work is Stanford’s own research in the Mascarene and Galapagos Islands, where the plight of giant tortoise populations illustrates the threat faced by all tortoises. He addresses unique survival problems, from genetic issues to the costs and benefits of different reproductive strategies. Though the picture Stanford draws is bleak, he offers reason for hope in the face of seemingly inevitable tragedy. Like many intractable environmental problems, extinction is not manifest destiny. Focusing on tortoise nurseries and breeding facilities, the substitution of proxy species for extinct tortoises, and the introduction of species to new environments, Stanford’s work makes a persuasive case for the future of the tortoise in all its rich diversity.

Insight Guides Madagascar (Travel Guide eBook)

Insight Guides Madagascar (Travel Guide eBook)
Author: Insight Guides
Publisher: Apa Publications (UK) Limited
Total Pages: 673
Release: 2018-09-01
Genre: Travel
ISBN: 1789192439

Insight Guides: all you need to inspire every step of your journey. From deciding when to go, to choosing what to see when you arrive, this is all you need to plan your trip and experience the best of Madagascar, with in-depth insider information on must-see, top attractions like the much-photographed Alle des Baobabs, the biodiverse Parc National de Ranamofana and the azure waters of Nosy Be. Insight Guide Madagascar is ideal for travellers seeking immersive cultural experiences, from exploring the 'stone forest' of the Parc National de Tsingy de Bemaraha, to encountering lemurs in the tangled rainforest of the Parc National de la Montagne d'Ambre In-depth on history and culture: enjoy special features on the Malagasy people and the island's unique flora and fauna with special emphasis and lemurs and chameleons, all written by local experts Invaluable maps, travel tips and practical information ensure effortless planning, and encourage venturing off the beaten track Inspirational colour photography throughout - Insight Guides is a pioneer of full-colour guide books Inventive design makes for an engaging, easy reading experience About Insight Guides: Insight Guides is a pioneer offull-colour guide books, with almost 50 years' experience of publishing high-quality, visual travel guides with user-friendly, modern design. We produce around 400 full-colour print guide books and maps, as well as phrase books, picture-packed eBooks and apps to meet different travellers' needs. Insight Guides' unique combination of beautiful travel photography and focus on history and culture create a unique visual reference and planning tool to inspire your next adventure.

Tortoises of the World

Tortoises of the World
Author: George R. Zug
Publisher: JHU Press
Total Pages: 257
Release: 2024-04-23
Genre: Nature
ISBN: 1421448351

"This work provides a comprehensive review of the natural history of the 58 species living tortoises, the majority of which are threatened by extinction"--

Tortoise Dodos

Tortoise Dodos
Author: Richard Cary Paull
Publisher:
Total Pages: 76
Release: 1999
Genre: Testudinidae
ISBN:

Turtles and Tortoises

Turtles and Tortoises
Author: Renée C. Rebman
Publisher: Marshall Cavendish
Total Pages: 54
Release: 2007
Genre: Juvenile Nonfiction
ISBN: 9780761422396

Presents the physical characteristics, behavior, and habitat of turtles and tortoises and discusses their endangered status.