Butterflies of the World - Tapa dura

Butterflies of the World provides a wide range of information on these creatures, which are among the most beautiful of nature's beings. Their many hues and shapes have been a delight and inspiration to artists and nature lovers for generations. In addition, the scientific importance of the Lepidoptera - butterflies and moths - has been recognized by entomologists (those who study them), because of the diverse behaviors and habitats of the hundreds of species that make up this order. A valuable review of what is known about the biology, behavior, and lifestyles of butterflies, this authoritative volume is enhanced by the unique personal observations of coauthor Ken Preston-Mafham. These are based on his field study in many countries, gathering information and photographs for this book. There is a special emphasis on the often spectacularly patterned species of Africa and South America, while species from the rest of the world are also adequately covered. Filled with spectacular original, color photographs of living specimens, taken by the authors in the wild, this visually thrilling volume is an important addition to the successful Of the World series.

Rod and Ken Preston-Mafham are experienced writers and photographers of the living world. Their expertise is evident in their other titles in the series, in their dual role as authors and as photographers for Premaphotos Wildlife, one of the United Kingdom's leading natural history photographic libraries.