Japan: The Natural History of an Asian Archipelago (Wildlife Explorer Guides Book 2)

**A comprehensive, richly illustrated guide to Japan’s astonishing animals and plants—and the natural forces that have shaped them** This richly illustrated guide is the first comprehensive and accessible introduction to the extraordinary natural history of the Japanese archipelago. It explains how Japan’s geology, geography, climate, seas and currents have forged conditions supporting a diverse range of species—from cranes, bears, eagles and monkeys to plants, butterflies, dragonflies, frogs and snakes—many of which are found nowhere else in the world. Engaging and authoritative, this book is a must-have for anyone who wants to explore or learn about Japan’s natural wonders, from the Japanese Macaque—the famous snow monkeys—to the magnificent Steller’s Eagle. * Features more than 878 colour photographs, illustrations and maps * Provides a lavishly illustrated introduction to many of Japan’s common and iconic mammals and birds * Takes readers on a naturalist’s journey to the key areas of Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, Shikoku and Nansei Shoto, as well as the Izu, Ogasawara and Iwo islands * Introduces Japan’s geology, geography, topography, climate, habitats, biodiversity and much more * Explains where and how to watch and photograph wildlife in Japan, including whales Cover Contents Preface The Forces that Shape Japan Wild Japan in Context Along the Arc of Fire The Story Begins with the Landscape Oceans, Seas and Currents Climate Natural Ecology The Habitats of Japan The Flora and Vegetation of Japan Japan’s Biodiversity Patterns of Wildlife Distribution People and Wildlife Islands and Extinction Conservation Successes Wildlife-watching The Regions of Japan Hokkaidō – Land of Ice and Snow Honshū – The Heart of Japan The Sky Islands at the Heart of Honshū Southern Lands – Kyūshū and Shikoku Northern Nansei Shotō Southern Nansei Shotō The Natural Marvels of the Izu, Ogasawara and Iwō Islands Mammals and Birds of Japan An Overview of Japan’s Mammals An Overview of Japan’s Birds Bibliography and Recommended Reading Acknowledgements Index Endpaper The description for this book, Wildlife of Japan, will be forthcoming