Boas and Pythons of the World

by O'Shea Mark

Pp. 160; 180 color photographs, 2 full-color maps. Publisher's original black cloth, lettered in gilt on the spine, color pictorial dust jacket, sm folio. Few reptiles command more respect than the mighty boas and pythons. Prized for their size, relative docility, and spectacular coloration and patterning, they are the most dramatic snakes in the world. But the same snakes that many consider gentle giants - the Green Anaconda can exceed twelve yards in length and is also a finely tuned killing machine. In Boas and Pythons of the World, renowned snake expert Mark O'Shea takes readers on an exciting continent-by-continent journey to look at these snakes in their native habitats (from the jacket flap). No ownership marks and no signs of use.

Genres: Nonfiction, Animals

160 pages, Hardcover

First published January 29, 2007

Reviews

[Lone Wolf · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book covers not just boas and pythons, but also more basal snakes like blindsnakes. Arranged geographically, it’s interesting and informative, giving information on the various families and notable species found in each area (details aren’t given for every single species). The text is accompanied by plenty of beautiful photos.

There have been a few new discoveries and modifications in taxonomy since publication, and there were one or two minor mistakes, such as using “vertebrates” when “invertebrates” is meant. Two errors did stand out to me, though. First, the author states snakes’ internal organs are “the same as in any other vertebrate” – I would have expected such an experienced herpetologist to mention that snakes lack a urinary bladder. Second, he refers to “Salvador’s monitor or the ‘tree crocodile’ (Varanus salvadori)” – this species is properly called Salvadori’s monitor or the crocodile monitor, V. salvadorii.

[Claire Binkley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't think I actually started this book last week but I am fond of what it says and the imagery.

[Spoke · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little bit dry at times, but worth it for the personal anecdotes scattered throughout.