Cairo Practical Maps Reviews

Reptiles and amphibians are among Egypt’s most successful wildlife, found in almost every habitat in the country, from homes to fields and the desert itself. For the first time, A Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Egypt provides concise, reliable, and up-to-date information on all of Egypt’s principal species, with detailed material on their taxonomy, identification, natural history, and ecology. Based on fifteen years of fieldwork, this guide is a valuable tool for experts and amateurs alike in the identification, study, and conservation of these fascinating animals. With an easy-to-use key, high-quality maps, and over 100 color illustrations, this field guide covers 110 species—including tortoises and turtles, lizards, snakes, and crocodiles—found in Egypt. Each entry contains concise information about the species, including English, Latin, and Arabic names; world and Egypt distribution; distinguishing features; habitat and ecology; behavior; and conservation status. Included too are line drawings to illustrate key identification features and differences between species. With a comprehensive bibliography for further research, the guide supplies the accuracy and scientific rigor that scientists look for, while providing an accessible approach for generalists and amateurs. For biologists, nature lovers, and anyone interested in Egypt’s rich natural heritage, A Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Egypt is an ideal reference tool.

The vegetation in Wadi El Gemal National Park in Egypt’s Eastern Desert is more diverse than might first be expected, but even more surprising is the relationship that the desert dwellers continue to have with the plant life in their habitat, despite the increasing modernization of their world. As a ranger in the park, Tamer Mahmoud quickly realized the importance of surveying, identifying, and documenting the indigenous plants, and recording the information he compiled from interviews with the local community about how they use the plants for food, healing, animal fodder, and fuel. The result is this detailed and colorful guide, which includes photographs of each plant, the scientific name and local name in Arabic and English, and information on location, distribution, uses, and ecology. A glossary, bibliography, visitors’ information section and distribution maps make this a comprehensive reference work that will interest visitors, scientists, anyone interested in the flora of arid areas, and even anthropologists.