Britain's Spiders: A Field Guide - Fully Revised and Updated Second Edition

Britain's Spiders is an identification guide to all 38 British families, featuring 404 species with detailed accounts and over 700 stunning photographs. It includes nine species new to Britain, updated distribution maps, and the latest species checklist. The guide is designed to be accessible to a wide audience, including those new to spider identification.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 496 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2020
Publisher: Princeton University Press

A comprehensive and extensively revised version of a highly acclaimed identification guide, recognized as a Guardian Best Nature Book of the Year

Britain's Spiders: A Guide to All 38 British Families is a comprehensive resource that delves into the world of spiders, focusing specifically on those species that can be encountered in the British Isles. Illustrated with an impressive collection of photographs, this guide is designed to be accessible to a wide range of readers, including those who are new to spider identification.

This book pushes the boundaries of field identification for a challenging group of organisms, combining information on features that can be observed with the naked eye or a hand lens with additional evidence from webs, egg sacs, behavior, phenology, habitats, and distributions. Individual accounts cover 404 species, encompassing all of Britain's macro spiders and the larger money spiders. The limitations to field identification for each species are clearly explained, providing valuable insights for enthusiasts and researchers alike.

In this new edition, you will find nine species that have recently been introduced to Britain, along with numerous recent name changes, updated distribution maps, and comprehensive species information. Additionally, new guides have been included to assist in identifying spider families and distinctive species. The latest species checklist is also provided, ensuring that you have the most up-to-date information at your fingertips.

The guide is organized into several chapters, each dedicated to a specific aspect of spider identification. The first chapter provides an introduction to spider biology, covering topics such as their anatomy, behavior, and habitat preferences. It also offers guidance on where, when, and how to find spiders, including the equipment necessary for a successful field exploration.

Following the introductory chapters, the book delves into detailed accounts of spider families, based on features recognizable in the field. These accounts are accompanied by more than 700 stunning photographs that highlight key identification features for each genus and species. Information on status, behavior, and habitats is also provided, adding depth to the understanding of these fascinating creatures.

Up-to-date distribution maps and charts are included to assist in identifying the geographic range of each species. These maps provide valuable insights into the distribution and abundance of spiders in different regions of Britain, aiding in conservation efforts and ecological studies.

In addition to the comprehensive species information, the book also includes introductory chapters on the biology of spiders. These chapters delve into the unique characteristics and adaptations of spiders, shedding light on their ecological significance and their role in the ecosystem.

A complete list of the spiders recorded in Britain is provided, indicating the ease of identification as well as rarity and conservation status. This information is invaluable for both amateur enthusiasts and professional researchers, as it helps in prioritizing conservation efforts and identifying species that require special attention.

Overall, Britain's Spiders: A Guide to All 38 British Families is a must-have resource for anyone interested in spiders, nature, and biodiversity. With its comprehensive coverage, stunning photographs, and up-to-date information, this guide provides a valuable tool for enthusiasts, researchers, and educators alike. Whether you are a seasoned spider identifier or a beginner seeking to explore the fascinating world of spiders, this book will undoubtedly enhance your knowledge and appreciation of these remarkable creatures.

Weight: 1118g
Dimension: 159 x 215 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691204741