Spotting an animal’s fresh footprints in the wild can conjure a world for the hiker: Why did the deer tracks disappear? Where did the cougar turn off the trail? What does it mean when two sets of footprints seem to coincide? This beautifully illustrated field guide, the first devoted to the tracks and signs of California animals—including birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates like spiders and beetles—blends meticulous science with field experience to provide an engaging companion for both armchair exploration and easy field identification. Filled with useful tools for the wildlife expert, and essential background and visual aids for the novice, including in-depth information about the ecology of each species, this book goes beyond basic recognition of types to interpret what animals leave behind as a way of "seeing" how they move through the world.

Following his acclaimed guides to air, fire, and water, David Carle now offers a fascinating exploration of one more primary element of the natural world—the land beneath our feet. From earthworms and earthquakes to Earth Day, this concise, engaging guide is a multifaceted primer on the literal foundation of California’s environment. Carle tells how soil ecosystems function, discusses what lives in the soil, and examines various soil types. He then turns to the relationship between humans and the land, and investigates the various uses and abuses that land in California endures: large scale agriculture, mining, and development, as well as fires, floods, and erosion. The guide also details the history of land use in the state, making it an essential resource for understanding our total reliance on soil, the marvelous substrate that is the basis of life.

• Covers the entire state, including California’s wildlands, farmland, cities, and landfills

• Assesses California’s ecological footprint on planet Earth

• Discusses many different life forms found in soil, including bacteria, fungi, insects, and mammals

• Features 92 color photographs and 18 maps

A book in the Californians and Their Environment subseries, dedicated to understanding human influences on the state's ecology and natural resources

This key reference is a primer on energy in a state that continues to lead the world in finding sustainable solutions to one of the most pressing issues of the twenty-first century. While much public debate has focused on fossil fuels, this clearly written guide provides essential information on a broader range of issues—where our energy comes from, where future supplies will be found, and what new advances are being made in the area of renewable energy sources. Making the complex world of energy science and policy accessible to a wide audience, Peter Asmus examines the rich human history of California's earliest oil and hydroelectricity developments, explains the natural history underpinning the state's cornucopia of energy sources, covers such controversial sources as nuclear reactors and liquified natural gas, and more. Introduction to Energy in California includes: * Discussion of oil, nuclear power, coal, emerging alternative technologies, and renewable sources including geothermal, solar, wind, and hydropower * Analysis of the challenges and solutions facing California and the world on energy-related issues such as global climate change * Compelling case studies of corporations, governments, communities, and individuals working on today's most pressing energy questions * Color illustrations, useful maps, and clear graphics throughout

Jules Evens weaves history, science, and personal anecdote into an absorbing chronicle of one of the most biologically diverse places in North America. His account of this enchanted "island in time," separated by tectonics from the rest of the continent, provides a comprehensive overview of the Point Reyes Peninsula, exploring its dynamic character and its haunting appeal. Evens thoroughly investigates the climate, geology, and flora and fauna of Point Reyes, giving special attention to its most characteristic species and their ecological relationships. He delves into the past as well, evoking images of salmon-swollen creeks, herds of elk, and canyons echoing with the cries of cougars to enliven our imagination and set the stage as he traces the changes that have occurred at Point Reyes since the first Spanish explorers visited its shores in the late 1500s. Extensively illustrated with color photographs, original illustrations, and maps, the book also includes species lists for the reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals, common invertebrates, fish, and plants found on the peninsula today, making it an essential companion for anyone who plans to visit one of California's most unique natural areas.

With its varied topography of coast, mountains, and desert, the San Diego region, considered one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, boasts a rich variety of amphibians and reptiles—from the arboreal salamander to the green sea turtle to the secretive San Diego banded gecko and the red diamond rattlesnake. More than a field guide, this up-to-date, authoritative, conservation-oriented book is the first comprehensive resource on the herpetofauna of the region, which is unfortunately also known for its high number of endangered species. Jeffrey M. Lemm gives information on identification, habitats, biology, and the conservation status of all 88 amphibian and reptile species found in the San Diego region. Many of these animals can also be found in a wide area of Southern California and Northern Baja California, making this valuable guide useful for a wide geographic area and a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts, nature-lovers, and professionals alike.

* Includes a special venom section written by Sean Bush of Animal Planet’s "Venom ER"

* 160 color photographs illustrate the major habitats and all 88 amphibians and reptiles found in the region

* 70 range maps pinpoint the locations of each subspecies

* A new, easy-to-use taxonomic key by renowned herpetologist Jay Savage as well as line drawings of tadpoles and amphibian egg masses help make species identification simple

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press's mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 2007.
With its varied topography of coast, mountains, and desert, the San Diego region, considered one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, boasts a rich variety of amphibians and reptiles—from the arboreal salamander to the green sea turtle to the secretive S

The amazing armored bodies of beetles allow them to bore into plant tissue, navigate fast-moving streams, burrow through seemingly impenetrable soil, survive blistering heat, and fly. With around 8,000 species living in California, beetles represent the largest and most diverse group of organisms in the state and are an excellent subject for study since they can be found almost everywhere—in backyards, gardens, forests, and deserts. This, the only guide to California beetles available, is the perfect book for anyone—from outdoor enthusiasts to professional biologists—who wants to explore the fascinating world of beetles. In addition to providing information on where to find and how to study beetles, the book also gives an engaging and accessible overview of their natural history, biology, distribution, and relation to humans.

* 51 color illustrations and supporting black-and-white photographs and drawings identify the characteristics and habits of 23 of the most conspicuous and interesting beetle families in California

* Chapters describe beetles of special interest—fossil species, endangered species, pests, biological control agents, and more

* Includes an annotated list of terrestrial and aquatic beetle habitats by season, information on starting and caring for a beetle collection, details on keeping beetles alive in the classroom, and a checklist of California beetle families

The magnificent and much-loved Sierra Nevada, called the "Range of Light" by John Muir, is the dominant feature on the California landscape. First published forty years ago, this handbook has become an enduring natural history classic, used by thousands to learn more about virtually every aspect of this spectacular mountain range—from its superb flora and fauna to its rugged topography. Comprehensive yet concise and portable, the book describes hundreds of species: trees and shrubs, flowering plants and ferns, fungi and lichens, insects and fish, amphibians and reptiles, and birds and mammals. Now completely updated and revised, it will continue to be the essential guide to the Sierra Nevada for a new generation of hikers, campers, tourists, naturalists, students, and teachers—everyone who wants to know more about this unique and beautiful mountain range.

* Describes more than 750 of the species most likely to be encountered with more than 500 new color photographs and 218 detailed black-and-white drawings

* Includes engaging and accessible introductory sections on Sierra Nevada topography, climate, geological history, and human history

* The compact, updated species accounts make identification easy, provide informative remarks on ecology and life history, and note which species are threatened or endangered

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press's mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 2004.
The magnificent and much-loved Sierra Nevada, called the "Range of Light" by John Muir, is the dominant feature on the California landscape. First published forty years ago, this handbook has become an enduring natural history classic, used by thousands t

This guide synthesizes the most current information available on the pests and environmental conditions that can damage California’s conifers, the vast majority of native trees in the state. Authoritative and easy-to-use, it is an essential reference for biologists, arborists, ecologists, foresters and everyone who needs up-to-date information on conifer pests in one convenient manual.

o Species accounts cover life cycles, habits, distribution, and significance of each pest and discuss valuable options for reducing or avoiding damage

o 111 clear color photographs show damage caused by 80 insects, diseases, fungi, parasitic plants, animals, and other destructive agents

o The only guide to include information on environmental factors such as air pollution, salt, and frost as well as biological agents

o Appendices list pests and diseases by tree species and by part of the tree affected

Each year millions of people visit the area of rugged California coastline and wild mountains known as Big Sur. Finally here is a book that is both a natural history of this beautiful region and an excellent guide to its extensive public lands. The first section introduces the area's geology, climate, flora, fauna, and human history. The second section describes selected sites, trails, and features that are mentioned in Part One.

Although Big Sur is world famous for awe-inspiring scenery, it is less known for its great ecological diversity and its significance as a haven for many species of terrestrial and marine wildlife. In no other part of the world do fog-loving coastal redwoods thrive on one slope of a canyon while arid-climate yuccas grow on the other. Similarly, sea otters and cormorants live near dry-climate creatures like canyon wrens and whiptail lizards. The area's staggering beauty and forbidding wilderness have inspired artists, poets, naturalists, and hikers—and also real estate developers.

As increasing tourism, development pressure, and land-use decisions continue to affect Big Sur, this book will do much to heighten awareness of the region's biotic richness and fragility. Written in nontechnical language, with generous color photographs, drawings, maps, species lists, and a bibliography, it will attract both the casual and the serious naturalist, as well as anyone concerned about preserving California's natural heritage.


Each year millions of people visit the area of rugged California coastline and wild mountains known as Big Sur. Finally here is a book that is both a natural history of this beautiful region and an excellent guide to its extensive public lands. The first

The White-Inyo Range--rising sharply from the eastern edge of Owens Valley--is one of the most extraordinary landscapes in the world. High, dry, and amazingly diverse, it boasts an expansive alpine tundra and features the oldest living species on earth--the 4,000-year-old Bristlecone Pines. This colorful and authoritative volume assembles a wealth of information of deep interest to the hikers and scientists attracted to White-Inyo's altitude and isolation. The nearly two dozen contributors to the volume are leading experts on the flora and fauna, the geology, geomorphology, meteorology, anthropology, and archaeology of the area. The book offers descriptions of more than 650 kinds of living organisms, from the handful of fish to the abundance of reptile, amphibian, bird and plant species. (It provides descriptions of hundreds of flowering plants.) It contains an 8-color geologic map and a roadside guide that enables the visitor to make sense of the area's complex geological history. Readers will also learn about air currents that make the range a delight for sailplane pilots and create strange cloud formations. And a special chapter tells what is known of the Native Americans who moved up and down the mountain slopes in response to seasonal changes. For anyone who wishes to visit this astonishing area or to do research there, this volume will be a unique, comprehensive resource.

This title was originally published in 1991.
The White-Inyo Range--rising sharply from the eastern edge of Owens Valley--is one of the most extraordinary landscapes in the world. High, dry, and amazingly diverse, it boasts an expansive alpine tundra and features the oldest living species on earth--t

Vacant lots aren't really vacant: a surprising number of plants and animals live in the left-over spaces in our cities. In this fascinating guide, authors Vessel and Wong provide a broad introduction to the unique ecosystems that can survive in the urban environment.


Vacant lots aren't really vacant: a surprising number of plants and animals live in the left-over spaces in our cities. In this fascinating guide, authors Vessel and Wong provide a broad introduction to the unique ecosystems that can survive in the urban

Discover the captivating story behind California's breathtaking landscapes in California Landscape: Origin and Evolution. This engaging exploration unravels the powerful forces that have shaped the Golden State, from its towering mountains and dramatic coastlines to its deserts and valleys. California's natural diversity is unparalleled—within its borders lies the highest peak and the lowest point in the contiguous U.S., the driest desert, and the wettest mountain. In this book, Mary Hill reveals how volcanoes, earthquakes, and the relentless movement of Earth's tectonic plates have sculpted the land over millions of years. Learn how molten rock from deep within the Earth formed towering peaks, while the shifting of tectonic plates lifted mountains and transformed ancient seabeds into lofty summits. Even today, California's mountains continue to grow, shaped by the very same forces that built them. The story doesn't end with the creation of these majestic landscapes. Water, in all its forms—rushing rivers, pounding surf, and even ancient glaciers—has played a crucial role in carving the iconic scenery we know and love. From serene lakes to rugged cliffs, these natural artists have sculpted California's land over time, creating its stunning diversity. Perfect for geology enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone fascinated by the dynamic beauty of California, California Landscape: Origin and Evolution provides a rich and accessible look at the ongoing processes that continue to shape this ever-changing state. Dive into the forces of nature that made California what it is today—and what it may become tomorrow.

This title was originally published in 1984.
Discover the captivating story behind California's breathtaking landscapes in California Landscape: Origin and Evolution. This engaging exploration unravels the powerful forces that have shaped the Golden State, from its towering mountains and dramatic co

This title was originally published in 1982.


This title was originally published in 1982.

Both American Indians and the pioneers knew and used many different plant species-for food, fibers, medicine, tools, and other purposes. This unique book is a guide to identifying more than 220 such plants. But it goes much further-it also tells the reader how to prepare, cook, and otherwise use them. Some of the dishes for which recipes are given have won culinary prizes. All have been tested not only by the author but also by her students and by journalists-who have been uniformity surprised and impressed.

The plants are organized by habitat communities. Description, photos, drawings, and distribution information are given. Where poisonous look-alikes exist, they too are illustrated. Much fascinating information about Indian uses of native and introduced species is included.

The author emphasizes conservation considerations; the aim of the book is to educate the reader about intriguing uses of the plants, and to tell how to gather and use the most palatable and abundant species without damaging the environment.


Both American Indians and the pioneers knew and used many different plant species-for food, fibers, medicine, tools, and other purposes. This unique book is a guide to identifying more than 220 such plants. But it goes much further-it also tells the reade

This handy guide provides the information needed to identify all the species of marine mammals that occur along the California coast, and tells the best places to observe them. It also presents a compact survey of the remarkable adaptations that enable these astonishing creatures to survive in their ocean environment. The illustrations for this revised edition have been completely redone, taking advantage of new findings about the size and shape of flukes, dorsal fins, and other features in whales and dolphins, as well as shapes, sexual differences, and social behavior in seals, sea lions, and sea otters. Many of the marine mammals described in the book have made tremendous come-backs from near-extinction, notably the gray whales, elephant seals, and sea otters. They need strong protection if they are to be ensured of survival. This volume provides the basis for informed public understanding of these remarkable animals.


This handy guide provides the information needed to identify all the species of marine mammals that occur along the California coast, and tells the best places to observe them. It also presents a compact survey of the remarkable adaptations that enable th

The dry land is one world and the wet sea is another, but the line separating them is ever-changing. Known as the intertidal zone, the area between the land and the sea is defined by the extremes of the tides. Sam Hinton provides an introduction to this fascinating zone and its contiguous waters and to some of the many creatures who make the southern California seacoast their home. This highly readable book has been for many years the handiest resource available for anyone wanting to explore that region's delights and mysteries.

The book is filled with interesting anecdotes and drawings and has a thorough discussion of the natural forces¯the tides, winds, storms, currents, surf, and ocean chemistry¯that affect near-shore animals. Also included is a section relating the ocean forces to the intertidal habitat, along with a map of southern California locations where one might observe the organisms described in the book.




The dry land is one world and the wet sea is another, but the line separating them is ever-changing. Known as the intertidal zone, the area between the land and the sea is defined by the extremes of the tides. Sam Hinton provides an introduction to this f

The Cacti of California by E. Yale Dawson, with photographs by Don Skinner, is a comprehensive exploration of California's diverse cactus species, covering the rich history of their discovery and ongoing study. From the early botanical investigations by pioneers like Thomas Nuttall to modern research, this book provides a detailed account of the fascinating and ever-evolving cactus flora in the state. Featuring insights into new species recently identified in California's deserts and along its borders, this guide offers both historical context and the latest discoveries in the field. This book is perfect for both novice enthusiasts and seasoned botanists, detailing the unique characteristics of California's cacti, from their varied habitats—ranging from arid deserts to foggy coastal scrub and high glacial lakes—to their intriguing evolutionary processes. With stunning photographs and accessible explanations of cactus structure, including the distinctive areole from which spines and flowers emerge, The Cacti of California serves as a valuable resource for those looking to deepen their understanding of these remarkable plants. Whether you're exploring the California wilderness or simply fascinated by plant evolution, this handbook will enhance your appreciation of the state's botanical wonders.

This title was originally published in 1966.
The Cacti of California by E. Yale Dawson, with photographs by Don Skinner, is a comprehensive exploration of California's diverse cactus species, covering the rich history of their discovery and ongoing study. From the early botanical investigations by p

This title was originally published in 1966.


This title was originally published in 1966.

Southern California, with its valleys, high mountains and deserts, is exceptionally rich in native shrubs. Within this richly diversified area grow approximately 400 kinds of shrubs, and the great majority of them are mentioned in this book, which includes both color and black and white illustrations.


Southern California, with its valleys, high mountains and deserts, is exceptionally rich in native shrubs. Within this richly diversified area grow approximately 400 kinds of shrubs, and the great majority of them are mentioned in this book, which include

Explains the rules, tactics, and basic strategy of the game and provides drills for the experienced player.

This title was originally published in 1966.
Explains the rules, tactics, and basic strategy of the game and provides drills for the experienced player.

This title was originally published in 1966.

This title was originally published in 1965.


This title was originally published in 1965.

This title was originally published in 1959.


This title was originally published in 1959.

What is fire? How are wildfires ignited? How do California's weather and topography influence fire? How did the California Indians use fire? In the spirit of his highly acclaimed Introduction to Air in California and Introduction to Water in California, David Carle now turns to another fundamental element of the natural world, giving a fascinating and concise view of this complex topic. His clearly written, dramatically illustrated book will help Californians, including the millions who live near naturally flammable wildlands, better understand their own place in the state's landscape. Carle covers the basics of fire ecology; looks at the effects of fire on wildlife, soil, water, and air; discusses firefighting organizations and land management agencies; explains current policies; and explores many other topics.

Features:

* 91 color illustrations and 15 maps

* Tips on what to do before, during, and after fires

* An overview of major wildfires in California's history

* A discussion of the effect of climate change on fires in natural landscapes

A book in the Californians and Their Environment subseries, dedicated to understanding human influences on the state's ecology and natural resources

The Exclamation Damsel, Bison Snaketail, Powdered Dancer, Black Meadowhawk, and Sedge Sprite are just a few of the dragonflies and damselflies identified in this complete guide to California’s abundant Odonates.

o Species accounts discuss identification in the field and in the hand, behavior, habitat associations, geographic distribution, and flight season

o Includes 40 vivid full-color plates and supplemental black-and-white drawings

o Provides a general overview of dragonfly anatomy, behavior, life history, and a complete set of range maps

Islands have always been fascinating places, their separateness evoking a sense of mystery and inspiring a yearning for exploration. California's islands are unique evolutionary laboratories, places where plants and animals have grown and interacted in isolation for millions of years. This comprehensive book discusses both the human and the natural history of the islands of California, including all eight Channel Islands, Año Nuevo, the Farallons, and the islands of San Francisco Bay. It is also useful as a field guide for visitors, and details on reaching the islands are contained in the first chapter.

The authors explore the formation of the islands; discuss the history of human habitation, beginning with the Native Americans who first visited the islands 12,000 years ago; and provide a thorough introduction to the marine and terrestrial biotas of the islands. The authors also discuss past damage and ongoing threats to island ecosystems, including devastation caused by the introduction of non-native animals and plants. Large herbivorous animals in particular have caused considerable damage, since island plants evolved in the absence of herbivores and therefore have no defenses against them.

At present all of California's islands are managed by conservancies and public agencies such as the National Park Service and State Park system, and various environmental organizations are working with them to return the islands to their original condition.

This information-packed guide describes patterns of village life, and covers such subjects as Indian tools and artifacts, hunting techniques, and food.