The Natural History of Weasels and Stoats: Ecology, Behavior, and Management

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 464 pages
• Published by: Oxford University Press, USA
• Edition: 2nd Edition October 12, 2006
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 0195322711
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0195322712
• Book Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 0.8 inches
• Weighs: 1.2 pounds

Product Review

"King and Powell offer a comprehensive reference on weasles and stoats in a manner that will appeal to scientists, naturalists, and laypeople alike."-- Choice
"Comprehensive reference Well written and accessible to a wide range of readers."--CHOICE


Product Description
Field naturalists have observed the activities of weasels for centuries. Their descriptions were often accurate but sometimes misinterpreted the animals' behaviors and underlying explanations for those behaviors. "Organized natural history" became one of the roots of the science of ecology in the 1920s and by the 1960s scientists had begun to study the biology of weasels with all the critical, objective advantages of modern theory and equipment. Until the first edition of this book appeared in 1989 no one had attempted to explain these results to non-specialist naturalists. Now thoroughly revised, this book will continue to be the main one-stop reference for professionals. But both kinds of knowledge are brought together here-- observations for the traditional naturalist and rigorous measurements and interpretations for modern scientists, integrated into a single, readable account.

This new edition provides a comprehensive summary of the extensive advances over the last 15 years in our knowledge of these fascinating animals. A new U.S.-based co-author reshapes the content to be more U.S.-centric. Stories about North America trappers and backwoodsmen interacting with weasels replace some (not all) of the previous stories about English gamekeepers. These changes permeate the book, so readers familiar with the first edition will recognize some material, but will find a lot that is new. Much less reliable European information quoted in the first edition was there at the time when no better information was available. Now a new NZ chapter focuses on predation problems of the species introduced to that country. This edition, much more than a simple update, is now truly an international treatment and a more valuable resource.

Reader Reviews
This book not only makes it easier to understand these incredible animals but it was also fascinating and easy to read. I truly enjoyed the anecdotal tales and factual references and would HIGHLY recommend this to anyone interested in ferrets, weasels, stoats or mink. I have a whole new understanding and respect for these creatures with thanks to Dr. King and Prof. Powell. This will also help me much with the work I do with ferrets. Many thanks for such wonderful work!!! Miss Randy Melanie Belair President The Ferret Aid Society www.ferretaid.org