Jules Evens weaves history, science, and personal anecdote into an absorbing chronicle of one of the most biologically diverse places in North America. His account of this enchanted "island in time," separated by tectonics from the rest of the continent, provides a comprehensive overview of the Point Reyes Peninsula, exploring its dynamic character and its haunting appeal. Evens thoroughly investigates the climate, geology, and flora and fauna of Point Reyes, giving special attention to its most characteristic species and their ecological relationships. He delves into the past as well, evoking images of salmon-swollen creeks, herds of elk, and canyons echoing with the cries of cougars to enliven our imagination and set the stage as he traces the changes that have occurred at Point Reyes since the first Spanish explorers visited its shores in the late 1500s. Extensively illustrated with color photographs, original illustrations, and maps, the book also includes species lists for the reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals, common invertebrates, fish, and plants found on the peninsula today, making it an essential companion for anyone who plans to visit one of California's most unique natural areas.
Jules G. Evens, naturalist and writer, has lived in the Point Reyes area for over 30 years. He is a long-time research associate with Avocet Research Associates, Point Reyes Bird Observatory Conservation Science, and Audubon Canyon Ranch. He is the author of Introduction to California Birdlife (UC Press) as well as many scientific papers and natural history articles.
"In the past 40 years an amazing amount of data has been accumulated and analyzed on all aspects of the natural history of Point Reyes. Jules Evens has taken the difficult job of tackling an almost impossibly complicated subject and has succeeded masterfully. Natural History of the Point Reyes Peninsula provides an overview of not just the peninsula, but also adjacent land and ocean habitats, as well as thoughtful insights gleaned from research. The overwhelming draw to this area is observing some part of its natural history, and this book provides an intelligent summary of past and present knowledge."—Bob Stewart, former Naturalist in Residence for the Point Reyes National Seashore and author of Butterflies of Arizona: A Photographic Guide
384 pp.5 x 8Illus: 141 color illustrations, 13 line illustrations, 8 maps, 6 tables
9780520254671$28.95|£25.00Paper
Jul 2008