The photograph on the endpapers says what the book is about: predators, in this case cheetahs, watching their prey, wildebeest, flee in a cloud of dust. Africa is home to more large predators than any other continent--14 species with average weight more than 20 pounds. There are the famous, such as lions, leopards, and hyenas, and the not so famous, such as servals, caracals, and Ethiopian wolves. It is the coverage of these lesser-known carnivores that recommends this book for purchase, as it can be difficult to find pictures and good general information about these animals. Mills, a carnivore specialist based in South Africa, provides solid information in his somewhat terse text. An introductory chapter introduces the species, while chapters on hunting techniques and social life-reproduction compare and contrast the lifestyles of each predator. An extremely interesting chapter examines the competition between the various carnivores. Harvey's absolutely splendid photographs adorn every page, making the book even more invaluable and further recommending it for all libraries.
Nancy BentCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
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Awarded AAUP's 2002 Best of the Best: Books You Should Know About