This historic publication provides an account of every species of native mammals known to have existed in Australia since European settlement and every introduced species now living in a wild state. The result of many years of intensive research, it is a magnificent photographic record, structured into an authoritive, accessible form by Ronald Strahan.This book surveys the rich and varied world of Australia's mammals, from well known Platypus, Koala and Kangaroo species: to the less known pygmypossums, bats and carnivorous marsupials; the seals and sea lions; and introduced mammals such as the Rabbit, Camel and Deer. Each species account summaries behaviour and habitat, diet, reproduction and growth, and factors that lead to death; in short, everything that is known of an animal's current biology and survival status. Detailed statistical information is provided along side the fascinating and peculiar details of animals' lives.

About the Author

Ronald Strahan, AM, was an academic zoologist before becoming director of Sydney's Taronga Zoo. In 1974 he was appointed as the Australian Museum's first Reseacher Fellow and subsequently as the Executive Officer of the Museum's National Photographic Index of Australian terrestrial vertebrates. In 1994 he was admitted to membership of the Order of Australia for "contributions to zoology and the understanding of Australia's natural heritage".

Reviews

This revision of The Australian Museum Complete Book of Australian Mammals (Angus & Robertson, 1983) covers all species of mammals, native and introduced, exclusive of whales, known to have existed in Australia since the arrival of Europeans. After an overview on origin, classification, and conservation, the book focuses on species accounts prepared by over 150 experts. Each brief, signed account includes identification, size, habitat, reproduction, conservation, a range map, selected references, and, for nearly all, one or more excellent color photos. The editor is a senior research scientist with the Australian Museum in Sydney. This readable reference on a unique fauna will appeal to general readers and specialists alike. Highly recommended for both public and academic libraries.‘Bruce Neville, Univ. of Texas at El Paso Lib.