Handbook of the Mammals of the World (Volume 1. Carnivores)

This new offering from the Lynx stable will quickly grow to be the definitive reference on the world’s mammals. The first volume covers possibly the most popular and iconic group of mammals: the carnivores, with the cats and dogs joined by other groups such as bears, mustelids and mongooses. The series will ultimately run to eight volumes with the next, on hoofed mammals, expected in spring 2011. The publishing of the monumental Handbook of the Birds of the World (HBW) has stuck to its challenging publishing calendar so there is no reason to expect any delays with this series.

To those who are familiar with HBW these mammal books will give a feeling of déjà-vu, with the layout, look and feel being identical. An introductory essay, in this case describing what defines the mammals, precedes the main body of the work. Each family is then dealt with separately with a fact table, and then a hugely detailed section covering every aspect of the family’s species, habits and behaviour, lushly illustrated with stunning photographs, often depicting interesting behaviours. The section is finished with the species plates and detailed descriptions.

The true value of these handbooks lies in the depth of information presented and the comprehensive nature of the species descriptions but, for many, the main attractions are the photographs. This book does not disappoint and mammals are a photogenic group, once tracked down. As for a favourite, who could choose between the head-on shot of an attacking Siberian Tiger, a raft of Sea Otters, a stunning portrait of two Giant Pandas in a snow storm or a young Wolverine rolling and stretching? Thoroughly recommended, even with such a weighty price tag.

Book reviewed by Su Gough