"A ground-breaking identification guide ... the perfect marriage of artistic excellence, deep knowledge and, dare I say it, of scientists'' genuine affection." BRETT WESTWOOD This brand new illustrated field guide covers all 47 species of ladybird occurring in the British Isles in a handy and easy-to-use format. Twenty-seven species are colourful and conspicuous and easily recognised as ladybirds; the remaining species are more challenging, but the clear illustrations and up-to-date text in this guide will help to break down the identification barriers. A useful introduction provides an overview of ladybird ecology, tips on studying and recording, and suggested sites for finding ladybirds. The main part of the book comprises detailed species texts, covering field characters, food, habitats, suggested survey methods, ranges, conservation statuses and distribution trends. An illustrated at-a-glance identification guide and helpful pointers for differentiating similar-looking species are also included. With 102 colour photographs and 47 distribution maps, combined with Richard Lewington''s peerless artwork, this is the definitive guide to one of our most cherished and charismatic insect groups.>

The content of this book is a credit to both the authors and illustrator and with its wealth of useful information should certainly be given a place in the library of every specialist and general naturalist.

Préface
A beautifully illustrated guide to all the ladybirds of the British Isles.

Auteur

Professor Helen Roy combined research with teaching for 10 years before taking up a research position with the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, where she works extensively with national zoological schemes and societies. Her research focuses on the effects of environmental change on insect populations and communities, and she is particularly interested in the dynamics of invasive species and their effects on native biodiversity. Ladybird ecology has much public appeal, and Helen has taken every opportunity to communicate her research to a wide audience; this has included natural history talks, school visits, 'bioblitz', popular science articles, podcasts and interviews with the media.

Contenu

Foreword Acknowledgements Introduction Ladybird habitats Regional guides Using this field guide At-a-glance guide Conspicuous ladybirds Inconspicuous ladybirds Similar species Potential new species Useful resources Glossary Plant names Animal names Photographic credits Index