Wild Houston: Explore the Amazing Nature in and around the Bayou City

by Suzanne Simpson, John Williams

This vibrant, informative guide shows the unexpected and amazing nature in Houston and the surrounding area just waiting to be explored. Houston is more than just a bustling metroplex, it's full of amazing wildlife. You just need to know where to find it! Equal parts natural history, field guide, and trip planner,  Wild Houston  has something for everyone. This handy yet extensive guide looks at the factors that shape local nature and profiles over 100 local species, from the Barred Owl and the Western Rat Snake to the Houston Burrowing Crayfish, the Rainbow Scareb, and the Nine-banded Armadillo. Also included are descriptions of day trips that help you explore natural wonders on hiking trails, in public parks, and in your own backyard. 

Genres: Nonfiction, Nature

352 pages, Paperback

Published September 26, 2023

Reviews

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book to learn more of Houston's history when it comes to plants and wildlife and refuges. I loved reading this book. It's easy to read, gives great directions, and highlights each area (Field Trips) with just enough information. I learned so many new things about the history and new places to visit (can't wait). My only complaint was that they left out Hermann Park, which I think is a disservice. Anyways. If you are in or near the Houston area, love nature, want to see more out there, this is a great resource.

[Mai H.]

Non-fiction November TBR

📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Timber Press

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. I finally had time to finish it on Christmas Day! Learned so much about houston flora and fauna and I’m inspired to take my son on the suggested field trips. I bought a copy for my cousin and will be buying more as gifts for other family members. What a great resource for those of us who live in the greater Houston area.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm always curious about wild life in urban environment and this excellent book was both informative and entertaining.
Well written, lovely pictures.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine

[Wiggles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great nonfiction talking about nature found in the Houston, Texas area. As a native to the area, I highly enjoyed how I was made aware of the importance Of our local ecosystem. I think this could work in a myriad of settings, such as, a high school library,extra-credit reading for a biology undergrad course, a guide for locals and visitors alike. I hope that anyone who finds this book also feels inspired to keep Houston beautiful.

[Aeterna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a nice book about history and nature with clear photographs, cute pictures, and concise texts. Thank you the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for sending me this e-ARC.

[joyce w. laudon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did not know much about Houston before reading this title. I didn’t even know that it was a “Bayou City.” Now I have learned much more and this book was an enjoyable way to do just that.

The book’s authors make an important point early on when they observe that nature can also be found in cities. That is the case of Houston and its environs as presented in these pages.

Readers will enjoy exploring the three sections of this book. The first is about landscape, people and organisms. Next are 101 spotlighted species; would readers have guessed that there were so many around the area? The third part (and my favorite) features twenty-five field trips. If I ever get to Houston I will know where to go and what to look for.

Those who live in Texas or plan to visit, give this one a look. It is a terrific resource. Those who may never get to Houston, there are many photos to inspire you

Many thanks to NetGalley and Timber Press for this title. All opinions are my own.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven’t been to Houston yet but like to thoroughly research the areas that I plan visit before I go. This is a great resource to do just that. This covers more of the natural world in and around Houston rather than the usual hotspots. Beautiful pictures accompany a fascinating exploration of the bayous of Houston and its inhabitants from the air, land, and sea. There is also a history of the settlers of the area and what drew them to the land. Of particular interest is the section in the back with the comprehensive guide, “101 Species to Know”, with descriptions and photographs of the birds and fish of the different areas. Recommended for those who want to go off the beaten path and connect more with the nature of Houston.

I received a copy from NetGalley for an honest review.

[Margaret M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book for lovers of nature and wildlife. I have lived in the Houston area for 40 years and have often been in awe of the wildlife I see in an urban setting. I regularly research my wildlife and nature questions online, but this book offers me interesting and scientifically accurate information with every page I turn. It is also just plain fun to read! The writing is a combination of down-to-earth observations and explanations along with the information you would expect to find in a college textbook or a reference book. The photographs are simply beautiful. If you are not already a nature-lover, I guarantee that this book will turn you into someone who will learn to appreciate the marvels of the wildlife who actually share this urban landscape with us.

[Belle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not what I was expecting from the cover. I was surprised! (I thought this was a kid's book) This is a thoroughly detailed reference book, with the use of photographs not illustrations.

It begins with history and an animal and plant index. Then the remainder of the book features 25 trips you can take, with a map of things to do and see.

Instructional and informative.

*Free e-arc received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked how Wild Houston dove into the variety of life in the Houston area - plants and animals, and the sites where you can walk around and observe at different times in the year. It's perfect timing now, too, as the major heat subsides, to appreciate what is here. I saw some of my favorite walks and have many new ones added to the list! Must have if you visit or live in the Houston area.

Thank you to Netgalley and to Timber Press for the ARC.

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an ideal book for those interested in visiting Houston. It covers so much information in an approachable manner and surprised me at times even though I’ve been visiting the city for decades. The background info is great to use with kids and an invaluable resource for planning.

Thanks to NetGalley and Timber Press for an ARC of this book.

[Bibliohiker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley fir letting me review this book. At first, I thought this was a kids’ book based on the cover. This was an interesting read with info on the various animals and plants in the Houston area and where you can find them.

[Cheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting book. I have lived in Houston my entire life and never know all this.

[Ranger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource!

[Deb (Readerbuzz) Nance · Rating 3 out of 5]

What are the best places to go to see nature in and around Houston? Wild Houston is a perfect introduction to both (1) what to see, and (2) where to go.