The concept of ’natural heritage’ has become increasingly significant with the threat of dwindling resources, environmental degradation and climatic change. As humanity’s impact on the condition of life on earth has become more prominent, a discernible shift in the relationship between western society and the environment has taken place. This is reflective of wider historical processes which reveal a constantly changing association between humanity’s definition and perception of what ’nature’ constitutes or what can be defined as ’natural’. From the ornate collections of specimens which formed the basis of a distinct concept of ’nature’ emerging during the Enlightenment, this definition and the wider relationship between humanity and natural history have reflected issues of identity, place and politics in the modern era. This book examines this process and focuses on the ideas, values and agendas that have defined the representation and reception of the history of the natural world, including geology and palaeontology, within contemporary society, addressing how the heritage of natural history, whether through museums, parks, tourist sites or popular culture is used to shape social, political, cultural and moral identities. It will be of interest to scholars and practitioners within heritage studies, public history, ecology, environmental studies and geography.

A unique collection of concise but detailed information on 10,000 animals, plants, fungi and algae of the British Isles. Every species with an English common name is included. The compendium is in two parts. The first, smaller part, looks at various terms that people interested in natural history may come across. The second provides information on individual species or species groups, with entries on those with English (common) names, as well as selected families, orders, classes, etc. In the case of marine organisms, entries are given for intertidal and subtidal invertebrate species, and generally speaking for fish species that might be observed inshore. Indication is often given on distribution as well as whether a species is common, scarce or something in between. For some species a note is made of population size and trends. Comments are made where appropriate on etymology, both of the English name and the binomial. No other natural history dictionary or cognate publication relating to the British Isles is as comprehensive in taxonomic cover.

A stunning collection of images showcasing the scenic splendour, intrinsic character and contrasting treasures of Sussex through the seasons.

The South Downs has throughout history been a focus of English popular culture. With chalkland, their river valleys and scarp-foot the Downs have been shaped for over millennia by successive generations of farmers, ranging from Europe's oldest inhabitants right up until the 21st century. "... possibly the most important book to have been written on the South Downs in the last half-century ... The South Downs have found their perfect biographer." Downs Country.

Our attitudes towards `nature' and the countryside are fickle. The conservation movement, despite enjoying its highest membership ever, has achieved only limited success over the last one hundred years of campaigning. Can conservationists now shake off their insular, disunited and negative image so as to gain the influence that the size of their movement warrants? A History of Nature Conservation in Britain traces the rise of the conservation movement from its beginnings in Victorian coffee houses to today's societies with their membership numbering in the millions. The first complete history of the British, and oldest, branch of the movement, David Evans's book offers invaluable insights into the campaigns for countryside protection and access, from battles against the use of pesticides, against pollution and genetic engineering through to legislation for the protection of our wildlife and the freedom to walk the mountains. The 2nd Edition has been fully revised and updated. Topical issues are considered afresh; and new chapters reflect the rapid changes throughout the 1990s both in social attitudes, conservation practices, legislation, funding and within conservation organizations themselves. In the light of recent developments, Evans also looks at some difficult choices to be made in years ahead and asks how the conservation movement will fare on the new global stage.

This beautiful book combines the author's extensive ecological knowledge with art, and her passion for drawing with ink. It is packed with clear instruction and inspirational illustrations, and will be treasured by artists, illustrators, scientists and ecologists alike. Practical advice is given on using a range of materials and equipment for illustrating in pen and ink, as well as the collection and preservation of subject matter and reference material. Detailed instruction is given on how to create essential mark-making techniques that will enhance your illustrations through accurate depiction of shape, form, texture and pattern, and in the principles and elements of design. Subject-themed chapters include plants, strandline and marine specimens, fossils, invertebrates, and mammals. There are step-by-step exercises suitable for all skill levels, and case studies describing working practice as a professional illustrator.