Field Guide to the Snakes of Malawi

Field Guide to the Snakes of Malawi provides a complete account of all 67 snake species recorded in Malawi. Each species is illustrated with stunning photographs, over 300 images in all, as well as up-to-date distribution maps. The species are described in detail, including size, colouration, habits and diet. Species are presented in colour-coded groups based on the severity of their bite and venom: highly venomous, venomous, venomous but not dangerous, and non-venomous. This system enables the reader to quickly assess the treatment required following a bite and to seek appropriate first aid. Each species is contained in a double-page spread, making it easy for the reader to see all information on that particular snake, and also facilitating easy comparison by flicking between species. Dedicated sections also consider similar-looking species side by side, while there is also a wide-ranging discussion of snake behaviour, Malawi’s habitats and a host of other fascinating and useful information. This book brings together over 40 years of personal research by the authors – gathered from almost 6,000 individual specimens collected, catalogued and released – as well as previously unseen data from the 1960s on some of Malawi’s rarest species. It is an essential reference for the experienced herpetologist as well as a useful guide for amateur naturalists, hikers and tourists visiting Malawi.