Books published by Penguin Random House South Africa

A remarkable variety of animals and plants can be found in the wilderness region surrounding the Okavango Delta. This photographic guide covers more than 470 of the area's most conspicuous and interesting mammals, birds, reptiles, frogs, fi shes, invertebrates, trees and aquatic plants. An informative introduction describes the area's geology, climate, habitats and the key roles played by some animals, such as termites and elephants. The species accounts feature concise text describing the species' appearance, size, habits, habitat and status, with full-colour photographs to facilitate identification.

Namaqualand is justifiably famous for the floral wonderland it becomes in spring, when seas of bright flowers carpet the land. Astonishingly, the carpet comprises some 3,800 species, of which 28% are endemic. This book introduces nearly 600 species, highlighting those most commonly found, most conspicuous, spectacular or interesting, as well as endemics. An introduction touches on the species selection for the book, the climatic and topographical subregions within Namaqualand, plant names and uses, and conservation issues. The concise species descriptions also give seed and fruit details, uses, local growing conditions and flowering times, along with beautiful full-colour photographs. This is a must-have guide for visitors to Namaqualand, or for anyone interested in the wild flowers of southern Africa.

Recognise birds by their calls with this handy package of CD and accompanying book. These will help identify the sounds made by a range of the most common and widely distributed East African bird species.

An essential guide to identifying all dangerous snakes and common harmless snakes in southern Africa, as well as quick and important practical advice on first aid measures in the case of snakebite. Simple icons, distribution maps, succinct text and numerous full-colour photographs assist with easy identification of snakes commonly encountered in the region. Symptoms and treatment of snakebites are described, providing the reader with vital first-aid information. Clear, practical and easy-to-use, Snakes and Snakebite in Southern Africa will prove invaluable to all those with outdoor interests.

Geology off the beaten track follows on the successof author Nick Norman's earlier Geological Journeys(co-authored with Gavin Whitfi eld), which has sold morethan 20 000 copies in the last 6 years. This new book helps readers understand and interpret thegeology along SA's regional and other less-travelled roads. It features 13 detailed routes across the country, takingin geologically interesting areas such as the Richtersveld,Cape winelands and the Valley of Desolation nearGraaff-Reinet. The text is richly illustrated with photos and explanatorydiagrams, making it suitable for armchair travellers too. Maps for all the routes indicate key geosites, withGPS readings to pinpoint their location. This is a must-have handbook for travellers in the region,or for anyone wanting to know more about our rocksand landforms.

This photographic guide to the wildlife of East Africais an accessible introduction to the region's moreconspicuous and interesting mammals, birds, reptiles,frogs, insects, flowers and trees. A colour photographaccompanies each account, which describes the species'appearance, size, and habits, and gives information ontheir conservation status, habitat and the best viewinglocalities. This book is an invaluable guide for visitorsto national parks and other wildlife-rich places in EastAfrica and is a handy size for travel.