Steve Backshall's Venom: Poisonous Creatures in the Natural World

by Steve Backshall

Poison is an everyday part of the animal world, and an essential tool for hunting and defence. A wide variety of insects, reptiles and amphibians use toxins to subdue their prey or to stop becoming prey to another predator. Even some mammals and birds resort to poison as a means of securing a meal or deterring attack!From the nine-feet long Komodo Dragon through species such as the King Cobra, Lionfish, Fat-tail Scorpion and Poison Dart-frog to the diminutive but lethal Black Widow Spider, author Steve Backshall takes a fascinating look at the different types of natural venoms. On a tour of the world's continents, he looks at over 60 of the most venomous creatures, describing their main characteristics and explaining how they administer their venom and what its effects are. Stunning colour photographs and exciting accounts of Steve's own encounters with some of these animals bring the world of natural venom alive.He also looks at the science of natural toxins, and at how natural venoms are increasingly used in medicine and for the treatment of chronic disease in humans.

Genres: Nonfiction, Nature

160 pages, Hardcover

First published November 28, 2007

Reviews

[Jaguar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Despite there being mention of millions of years, this book contains big colored photos and information on venomous animals of the world. This is a very cool book, and I would read it again...
I would like to note though that poison dart frogs (which are in this book) are not venomous, they are poisonous. Poison Dart Frogs should not be in this book if the title CLEARLY STATES: "VENOMOUS Animals of the World"

Ah, but what's the difference between venomous and poisonous you ask?
-Venom must be injected.
-Poison must be ingested.

--EXAMPLES!--
-Rattlesnakes are VENOUMOUS because they INJECT venom.
-Most mushrooms are POISONOUS and if you INGEST it, you will be poisoned.

And there's your little fun fact for the day, brought to you by Jaguar.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

great book.no sensationalism,just the facts.recommended.