Dear Nature Enthusiasts - Hiraeth Press and Ecos Systems Institute are pleased to announce the publication of: Courting the Wild: Love Affairs with Reptiles and Amphibians, edited by Dr. Jamie K. Reaser and foreword by Dr. Thomas Lovejoy.
Within these pages will you find what are, often, surprise encounters with love. Whether as free-roaming boys or girls or responsibility-laden adults, the authors all have a tale to tell about an amphibian or reptile that unexpectedly called or bit them into a remarkable courtship. For each of the authors, the encounter was as life altering as any human love affair. For some, it has been far longer lasting---perhaps, one speculates, eternal. In each instance, falling in love with a reptile or amphibian inspired the author to shift both mind and heart consciousness. Not only did they grow to care about their specific paramour, but also the full suit of reptiles and amphibians, as well as the habitats that support them. Relationships between human and herp were deepened through intimate explorations into natural history and ecology. Longterm commitments were made through pledges of environmental stewardship. This wonderful collection of essays offers a glimpse into the special world of reptiles, and the spell they cast on those hwo have devoted their lives to their study. If you love nature, whether or not youre into reptiles, youll find much to enjoy, and you must may come away with a newfound appreciation and respect for these fascinating, often beautiful and frequently misunderstood creatures. Russ Case, editor, REPTILES magazine, ReptileChannel.com How does it happen that ordinary, well balanced, people end up dedicating their lives to snakes? This book by Reaser and her colleagues answers this question, not only for snakes, but for turtles and lizards, and frogs and toads, and salamanders, too. Enjoy these stories. If you are young (or young at heart), there may be an epiphany awaiting you. If herps have long since been your passion, let these tales take you back to those formative days, when everything that has happened since first began. - Michael J. Lannoo, Ph.D, Professor, Indiana University School of Medicine Books can be purchased from: - www.amazon.com A limited number of signed copies are available, contact Dr. Jamie K. Reaser at [email protected].
