Reid, F. A.2009. A Field Guide to the Mammals of Central America & Southeast Mexico. 2nd ed. Oxford University Press, New York, 346 pp. + 52 color plates. ISBN-978-0-19-534322-6, price (hardbound), $149.00; ISBN-978-0-19-534323-6, price (paper), $45.00

Abstract

F. A. Reid 2009. A Field Guide to the Mammals of Central America & Southeast Mexico. 2nd ed. Oxford University Press, New York, 346 pp. + 52 color plates. ISBN - 978-0-19-534322-6, price (hardbound), $149.00; ISBN - 978-0-19-534323-6, price (paper), $45.00. Fiona Reid has revised and updated her extremely useful, beautifully illustrated field guide to the mammals of the northern Neotropics. As the title states, this is a guide to the mammals of Central America and southeastern Mexico; however, this does not reflect the up-to-date, comprehensive systematic treatments, beautiful illustrations, ecological information, attention to detail, and the fact that the book is quite useful to both the north and south of Central America. Much of this work is based on her firsthand studies of mammals, both living and preserved specimens, from the region. The seemingly bewildering array of species present in this region is nicely laid out. Introductory sections include: How to use this book, How to find mammals, Studying mammals, The need for further research, Where to find mammals , and Conservation of mammals in Central America . The main section of the book consists of species accounts for all species of native mammals, including the marine mammals that are found in the adjacent waters and 3 introduced species that occur in the region. The book includes a glossary, which defines the words in a simple manner, an extensive bibliography, and indexes to the scientific and common names. All sections are written in a user-friendly manner. Accounts are provided for 364 species, which include 14 marsupials, 3 anteaters, 3 sloths, 2 armadillos, 15 shrews, 144 bats, 8 primates, 102 native rodents, 3 introduced rodents, 4 rabbits, 27 carnivores, 1 manatee, 1 tapir, 6 artiodactyls, and 31 cetaceans. Three widespread and commonly encountered introduced species (the house mouse, black rat, and Norway rat) are included. Throughout, the text includes a brief …