The Butterflies of West Africa Set [Hardcover]

This impressive two volume work illustrates and guides the reader through the extraordinary butterfly fauna of fifteen countries comprising tropical West Africa. From savannah to rain forest, each of the roughly 1,500 species is described in detail with notes on identification, habits, early stages and distribution. The author's enjoyable writing style, and first hand accounts through his extensive field work takes the reader into the tropics for a unique perspective on the lives of these fascinating and diverse creatures.

The first volume contains introductory chapters covering evolution, historical accounts of past researchers, a global perspective of the region's fauna, the bio-geographical regions of West Africa, ecology, migration, extinction and conservation. A color map of the vegetation zones and current political boundaries of Africa is included. The bulk of the text is devoted to species accounts in a well organized structure. Distinguishing features of Tribes and Genera are discussed followed by species accounts. Numerous line drawings and black and white photographs punctuate the text. The author has gone to great lengths to allow the reader to identify even difficult groups through the use of illustrations conveniently located within the text.

The second volume contains 130 stunning plates depicting approximately 3,800 specimens in full color. Upper and undersides are depicted for most species. Specimens are clearly identified by scientific name and a species number corresponding with the species account in Volume 1 for quick reference. Common names are included in the species accounts. Country of origin for each of the specimens illustrated is included. The volumes are well indexed by genera and species.

Several impressive regional volumes have been published in recent years including Parson's "Butterflies of Papua New Guinea" and Mayberry's "Butterflies of Australia". Larsen's "Butterflies of West Africa" continues the trend of excellence and gives the reader a comprehensive identification guide and in-depth understanding of life histories, habits, and a historical account of the butterfly fauna of West Africa. Considering the number of species treated, this work is truly monumental.

"Butterflies of West Africa" is a must for anyone interested in the butterfly fauna of Africa and perhaps sets a new standard for any regional identification guide. Readers interested in butterflies, tropical butterflies, ecology or conservation will find this work fascinating.

I am the author of this book

There is a review posted by one Eddie John on your UK branch

amazon.co.uk

It would be very appropriate for you also to run it on the usa site amazon.com