Lost Frogs and Hot Snakes: Herpetologists' Tales from the Field

Lost Frogs and Hot Snakes is a collection of essays by fifty field biologists that explores the thrills and travails of working with amphibians and reptiles in the wild, offering an understanding of field biology and the importance of engaging with nature.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2024
Publisher: Cornell University Press

Lost Frogs and Hot Snakes: Unveiling the Excitement and Challenges of Herpetology in the Wild
Lost Frogs and Hot Snakes, a captivating collection of essays by fifty field biologists, delves into the thrilling and challenging world of herpetology in the wild. Edited by Martha L. Crump, this volume provides a multifaceted and intimate glimpse into the lives of these dedicated scientists as they pursue knowledge about the natural world. From the beaches of Peru to the mountains of China, the stories in this collection transport readers into the boots of field biologists, allowing them to witness, count, experiment, and survey the diverse wildlife that inhabits our planet.

One of the key themes of Lost Frogs and Hot Snakes is the thrill and excitement of field biology. Field biologists often face unexpected challenges and mishaps, from leeches to dangling off a precipice while in a truck. These stories recount the humorous and sometimes harrowing experiences of these scientists, as they navigate the unpredictable terrain and encounter the incredible diversity of life.

At the same time, Lost Frogs and Hot Snakes also offers a deeper understanding of what field biology is and what field biologists do. The stories provide a glimpse into the meticulous research methods used to study amphibians and reptiles, from collecting data to analyzing specimens. They also highlight the importance of field biology in conservation efforts, as scientists work to protect and preserve these vital species.

One of the most memorable stories in Lost Frogs and Hot Snakes is that of a group of field biologists who discovered a new frog species in the Amazon rainforest. The discovery was made after years of research and exploration, and the scientists were thrilled to have made such a significant contribution to the scientific community. The story highlights the importance of persistence and dedication in field biology, as well as the rewards that come with making new discoveries.

Another story that stands out is that of a field biologist who encountered a rare snake in the mountains of China. The snake was a species that had not been seen in the area for over a century, and the biologist was amazed by its beauty and grace. The story highlights the importance of biodiversity and the need to protect and preserve all species, even those that are rare and endangered.

Lost Frogs and Hot Snakes is written with candor, warmth, and a dash of humor, making it an engaging and accessible read for anyone interested in nature and the natural world. The stories are relatable and inspiring, and they will encourage readers to appreciate the value of engaging with nature and of the amphibians and reptiles so critical to the vitality of our planet.

In conclusion, Lost Frogs and Hot Snakes is a must-read for anyone interested in herpetology, nature, and the natural world. The stories in this collection provide a multifaceted and intimate glimpse into the lives of field biologists, and they offer a deeper understanding of what field biology is and what field biologists do. Whether you are a seasoned scientist or a casual nature enthusiast, Lost Frogs and Hot Snakes will inspire you to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the natural world and to work towards protecting and preserving it for future generations.

Weight: 434g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501774485