From Library Journal
Anyone who goes on safari will want to make room in his or her suitcase for this treasure. Estes, who is affiliated with Harvard University and the Smithsonian Institute as a research associate, spent over eight years doing fieldwork in Africa and over 17 years leading safaris. His admirable qualifications as an expert on the social ecology of African mammals are reflected in the text, which describes approximately 86 species of African mammals. Introductory chapters give practical advice on how to observe animals, including tips on using binoculars and photographic equipment. Other chapters are arranged by standard taxonomic classification. Estes first covers the characteristics of families and subfamilies and then goes into even more detail on the individual species, charting behaviors one can expect to see and the usual context or meaning. Icons illustrating the behaviors effectively take the reader to a description of the behavior being observed. Appended to the text are a brief suggested reading list, addresses of major wildlife organizations, a glossary of terms, and a thorough index. The only "fault" with this exceptionally well-written and researched book is its size. With a 6 9 trim and some 470 pages of text, this is a fairly large, hefty volume to pack on safari--but it is worth the extra effort, as nothing compares with it. Essential for any traveler to Africa, any student of animals or behavior, any zoo visitor, and any size public library.- Edell Marie Schaefer, Brookfield P.L., Wis.Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.


From Book News, Inc.
An impressive, very well conceived and executed guidebook. Estes has done deep research into African animal behavior. It is presented here with many lucid drawings (without wasting space on merely pretty pictures). ^Twould be our first choice if stranded on a desert anthill. Annotation copyright Book News, Inc. Portland, Or.

FROM OUR EDITORS

The best way to get the most out of your safari experience is to be informed about the animals you will be observing, and that's just what this guide will do for you. With lists covering more than 80 species and their habitats, behaviors, and rituals, you'll create and enrich an unforgettable lifetime experience.

ANNOTATION

The first comprehensive guide to watching and understanding the behaviors of African wildlife. Designed to be carried along on a wildlife-viewing safari, the guide allows even a novice wildlife observer to understand the behavior of nearly one hundred large mammals, from antelopes, hippos and elephants to lions, monkeys and gorillas. 100 illustrations.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

The Safari Companion enables readers to recognize and interpret visible behavioral activities, such as courtship rituals, territorial marking, aggression, and care of young. Each account of over 80 species includes a behavioral table in which the unique actions of the hoofed mammals, carnivores, and primates are described for easy reference. In addition, useful maps show the major national boundaries, vegetation zones, and game parks relevant to the guide. The book includes an extensive glossary, as well as tips on wildlife photography, a list of organizations working to protect African wildlife, and advice on where and when to see the animals.

FROM THE CRITICS

Library Journal

Anyone who goes on safari will want to make room in his or her suitcase for this treasure. Estes, who is affiliated with Harvard University and the Smithsonian Institute as a research associate, spent over eight years doing fieldwork in Africa and over 17 years leading safaris. His admirable qualifications as an expert on the social ecology of African mammals are reflected in the text, which describes approximately 86 species of African mammals. Introductory chapters give practical advice on how to observe animals, including tips on using binoculars and photographic equipment. Other chapters are arranged by standard taxonomic classification. Estes first covers the characteristics of families and subfamilies and then goes into even more detail on the individual species, charting behaviors one can expect to see and the usual context or meaning. Icons illustrating the behaviors effectively take the reader to a description of the behavior being observed. Appended to the text are a brief suggested reading list, addresses of major wildlife organizations, a glossary of terms, and a thorough index. The only ``fault'' with this exceptionally well-written and researched book is its size. With a 6 9 trim and some 470 pages of text, this is a fairly large, hefty volume to pack on safari--but it is worth the extra effort, as nothing compares with it. Essential for any traveler to Africa, any student of animals or behavior, any zoo visitor, and any size public library.-- Edell Marie Schaefer, Brookfield P.L., Wis.

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