Mammals of Costa Rica

With detailed information drawn from hundreds of scientific publications and more than 400 spectacular illustrations, The Natural History of Costa Rican Mammals describes all of Costa Rica's readily identifiable terrestrial and freshwater mammals. The clear and entertaining text provides a wealth of information for researchers, students, and naturalist guides, as well as for first-time visitors to the American tropics who simply have an interest in wildlife. The book's compact, sturdy design makes it easy to carry along on any field trip.

The illustrations show not only the mammals themselves, but also their tracks, scats, dens, and anatomical details. Also included are illustrations of numerous other animals and plants with which the mammals have formed close ecological links.

The mammal descriptions include key identification features, range maps, vocalizations, derivations of common and scientific names, evolutionary history, local folklore and mythology, and extensive information about natural history and conservation. The book also describes some of the fascinating challenges faced by researchers and points out numerous questions that remain unanswered. By presenting mammals in a broader context, The Natural History of Costa Rican Mammals provides an entry point into a general study of tropical ecology and conservation.