Introduces the physical characteristics and behavior of these beautiful snakes from the scrublands, grasslands, and tropical forests of northern Australia and New Guinea.

Set in rural Australia, two young boys manage to stop an illegal animal trader from stealing a swamp python who has swallowed a goat. Suggested level: primary.

A fascinating look at Burmese pythons, how they're changing the south Florida ecosystem, and what scientists are doing to try to keep them in check. An intriguing new release from award-winning author Kate Messner.

Spectacular Snakes of Australia showcases these beautiful creatures which play such an important part in our biodiversity. It portrays most of the species found in Australia, such as tiger snakes, copperheads, brown snakes, death adders and sea snakes, up close and personal. It also includes some unique photographs, such as the hatching of scrub pythons, that offer a rare glimpse into their more intimate lives. The informative text, based on the latest research, describes the reproductive biology, behaviour, predators and prey of these reptiles, as well as their habitat and conservation values. Readers will explore the importance of colours and patterns in allowing snakes to blend into their environment, their defence and attack mechanisms, and the adaptations they have undergone to cope with their surroundings. In addition, the author provides some anecdotes on his encounters with snakes, and clears up a few myths regarding snake behaviour. Richly illustrated with exceptional photographs, Spectacular Snakes of Australia features the deadly serious as well as the quirky – from snakes that love water to those with potent venom, and even snakes that are blind! This book is a real treat for snake lovers.

The Burmese pythons, the subject of this care guide, is a giant snake with specific feeding, housing, and handling requirements, that is not ideal for most hobbyists and an unusual choice as a pet. Nonetheless, author Philippe de Vosjoli notes in the first chapter that his favorite snake was indeed a Burmese python, as no other snake “has ever equaled this particular animal in terms of personality and responsiveness.” Indeed, he says, the Burmese python’s docile nature has done much to help dispel scary myths and misconceptions about snakes in general. For snake hobbyists interested in purchasing and keeping this gentle giant, Burmese Pythons is an excellent introduction to the selection and purchase of a healthy snake offering no-nonsense advice about handling, housing, feeding, and breeding these snakes. The author’s chapter titled “How Accidents Happen” presents commonsense tips about handling Burmese pythons, discussing bites, the tail, and constriction, essential reading for all keepers, regardless of their experience level. Dr. Roger Klingenberg offers a chapter on diseases and disorders which proves useful and informative. A fully illustrated chapter dedicated to other large pythons offers information about size, longevity, morphs, maintenance, and breeding for the following giant snakes: the Indian python (a subspecies to the Asiatic rock python, like the Burmese python), the Sri Lankan python, the reticulated python, and the African rock python. Resources and index included.

A gorgeously illustrated guide to the incredible diversity of snakes around the world Snakes are found on every continent except Antarctica and have evolved to occupy a vast range of habitats, from mountains to oceans and deserts to rain forests. Snakes of the World explores their extraordinary diversity, with an in-depth introduction covering anatomy, behavior, habitats, reproduction, conservation, and other essential topics. This expert guide also includes profiles of some of the approximately 4,000 species of snakes, featuring examples from every family and subfamily. Each family profile highlights the remarkable appearance, characteristics, and lifestyle of notable snake species. Covering how snakes use venom or constriction to subdue their prey, how a snake's appearance can aid camouflage or boast of its killing capacity, and how habitat destruction is jeopardizing the future of many species, Snakes of the World is an invaluable guide to these fascinating reptiles. Features more than 200 stunning color photographs Presents species profiles with a commentary, distribution map, and table of information Includes examples from every snake family and subfamily