Mark O'Shea

There are over 3,700 species of snake found on every continent except for Antarctica, ranging in size from Barbados’ tiny thread snake to Southeast Asia’s massive reticulated python. More than any other creature snakes are surrounded by dark, compelling myths and legends, unsurprising since many constrict their prey to death, or kill with a venomous bite, using a diverse armory of venoms that affect the blood, tissues, organs, and respiration.

However, it is especially true of snakes that the closer you observe them, the more exquisite they are in their intricate geometry of pattern, the fine texture of the overlapping scales, and the intricacies of their multifarious lifestyles. The Book of Snakes profiles 600 significant species from all 32 families—one in six of all known species—to create a beautiful collector’s piece that is both a significant resource for enthusiasts and scholars and the most visually stimulating guide on the market.

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