"... habitat by habitat, this extensively researched, fully illustrated, popular account reveals a dynamic panorama resplendent with diverse wildlife -- in the mountains, in the forests and waterways, on farmland, in cities, around the coast, on offshore islands and in the sea. The intriguing origins of this flora and fauna are also examined, as is the vital importance of conserving this priceless heritage. In its ecological approach, the text goes far beyond simple introductions to plants and animals. It focuses rather on the processes and principles, on how organisims have adapted to succeed in life and how they interact with one another in their natural community. Insights are given to explain such details as why some animals are nocturnal, how alpine plants cope iwth blizzard conditions, how some marine mammals are able to dive to great depths, and why some plants are parasitic on others. Each major habitat is discussed in turn, in a way that will help the reader make sense of the world that is a forest, a beach or a wetland ..." -- Inside front cover.