Pelagic Publishing

As we clear millions of hectares of forests globally, the challenge of restoring these precious ecosystems becomes ever more pressing. The stakes are high: a staggering 95% of Earth’s land could succumb to degradation by 2050. While the task might appear straightforward – simply plant millions of trees – the reality is far more perplexing. Haphazard tree-planting in unsuitable locations can wreak havoc on ecosystems and jeopardise the livelihoods of local communities. The surge of interest in restoring forests has ushered in a wave of greenwashing, where deceptive environmental marketing and scientific mishaps undermine genuine efforts. Yet this new focus also brings forth a plethora of solutions and many rays of hope. Amidst such a landscape, cutting-edge science and Indigenous knowledge together can redefine our understanding in a way that not only helps regenerate nature but also allows human communities to thrive. This original, topical and engaging book navigates the complex realm of forest restoration. It reveals how a nuanced approach is required – one that integrates the latest scientific advancements (for instance in microbial ecology, acoustic technology and epigenetics), Indigenous leadership and a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of life within these vital ecosystems. Treewilding asks us to reflect on our relationship with trees and how we must see the woods (intricate social and ecological systems) for the wood (timber) – a realisation that is perhaps the biggest ‘secret’ to restoring nature.

Otter? Otter? OTTER! That elusive shadow, that fleeting glimpse, that sleek and slender form disappearing beneath the surface of the water. It is one hundred years since Henry Williamson wrote Tarka the Otter, the book that first brought these captivating animals into the public consciousness. A lot has changed for us over the last century, but is much different in the secretive life of the Otte? tters and the rivers in which they live have certainly been on a long journey, a perilous one at times. This book follows that course, a hundred years of riverine ebbs and flows. In richly poetic prose it reflects on what has happened to the Otter, as well as considering the outlook for this species today. Otters are now common across most of Britain, but is their future secure? Are there hard-won lessons from the last ten decades that we still have not heede? rom near extinction at the hands of hunters and pollution, to modern-day urban living, Otters have always been intricately entwined with their ecosystem and habitat. The author speaks to those involved in Otter conservation who do so much to help these remarkable and surprisingly adaptable mammals survive the challenges of our world. This book is the perfect companion for anyone with an interest in wildlife and the environment. For the Otter enthusiast, it is essential reading.

This book investigates a vital and controversial question for conservation and rewilding in Britain and Ireland: could and should we learn to live with lynx, wolves and bears again? We travel back in time, around the world and into the future to explore this contested topic. The author delves deep into the human psyche, considering not only his own mixed feelings about large carnivore reintroductions but also why people have such polarised perspectives on top predators. He brings his unique combination of expertise on snow leopards – and their relationship with humans – along with his experience as a farmer to illustrate the discussion. Along the way, we meet a cast of characters from across society, including farmers, rewilders and everyone in between. It becomes clear that coexisting with large carnivores is as much about sharing landscapes with each other as it is about sharing them with wildlife. The first book to tackle this subject in detail, based on more than 50 interviews from seven countries, Living with Lynx will be of relevance to anyone with an interest in the future of nature, farming and the countryside. Personal, detailed, unflinching and engaging, it adds a great deal to this rapidly evolving debate.

Wolf Land traces the lives of the wolves that once called Britain and Ireland home. Beginning with the Ice Age, each chapter considers a key period in the history of wolves on these islands. Describing the landscapes they traversed, their relationship with the ever-growing human population, and the ways in which humans weaved wolves throughout every aspect of their cultural lives, from literature and art to religion and politics. Building on this history, Wolf Land concludes by reflecting on the parts of this story yet to be written, asking whether wolves could once again make Britain and Ireland their home. There is no better time for understanding the complex, multifaceted ecology of wolves in Britain and Ireland. Calls for widespread nature restoration and the reintroduction of apex predators necessitate a thorough understanding of the history of this animal, as well as the reasons why the species ultimately disappeared. Only by thoroughly comprehending the past can we hope to forge a future that involves wolves. Elizabeth Marshall is an expert in historical and literary research, with extensive knowledge of wolf ethology, ecology, and reintroduction. Passionate about critically examining and tracing historical sources, Elizabeth separates fact from the (ubiquitous) fiction associated with these animals. Wolf Land is a book for not only wolf lovers and natural and cultural history enthusiasts, but also for those interested in rewilding, reintroduction, and the complex yet fascinating relationship between nature and culture.

Wales has a diverse range of butterflies – from the familiar Peacock to the elusive Large Heath, from the blisteringly quick High Brown Fritillary to the dainty Wood White, from the shimmering Silver-studded Blue to the orange glow of the Brown Hairstreak. This identification guide covers the 44 species present in Wales, and includes explanations of their lifecycles, distribution maps highlighting where they are likely to be found and a section on rare migrants that have been encountered here and may occur again in the future. Butterflies are not just delicate insects flitting around our meadows, gardens and hedgerows; they are far more complicated than that. Their lifecycles are fascinating and in some cases it seems a wonder that they survive at all. Moreover, butterflies are key pollinators as well as excellent indicator species: when their numbers dwindle or they are absent, something is wrong – a cause for concern and should be investigated. This book is ideal for people living in Wales keen to identify their local butterfly species, and for visitors interested in watching these charming insects.

This book is the comprehensive guide for ecologists undertaking site surveys for Eurasian otters. It describes how to carry out initial field-sign surveys, select sites for camera-trapping, deploy camera-traps and interpret data. The methods described are underpinned by years of research. Field-signs have historically been used as the main approach for surveying otters. This book illustrates what to look for and where to find different types of field-sign. It examines whether field-signs are a good predictor of otter activity and describes the limitations of such surveys. Optimal deployment of camera-traps to monitor otter dens (holts) is presented, together with an account of what type of behaviour and activity levels can be expected when they are used for birthing (natal holts), cub-rearing and casual resting. Illustrations, camera-trap images and descriptions of the animals’ behaviour bring the process to life, supported by the latest scientific evidence for application in site surveys and licence applications. - A practical guide to field-sign surveys in freshwater and coastal habitats, how to search for holts and what field-signs can be used to identify otter presence. - When and how to deploy camera-traps at potential holts; optimising set-up for good data quality, and understanding constraints of the equipment, the site and the species. - Organising camera-trap data to quantify activity patterns. - Interpretation of camera-trap footage; identification of males and females, resting activity and natal activity.

Biological recording is the discipline of writing down natural history observations of a correctly identified species, in a specific location, on a specific date, by a named individual. Simple enough, you may think. But these four pieces of data each have their own pitfalls for the unwary, whether making records or using them in analysis. This is the first time that all of the principles and processes of biological recording have been brought together, with a detailed look at some fascinating historical examples. What is biological recording, why do we do it, how did it start, and why does it underpin just about every evidence-based decision that is made in conservation? The book covers:- The art of recording – in-depth, practical information from site-specific work and different habitats to handling absence data, bias and error. - Planning – including relevant legislation and monitoring. - Context – databases, collections, rarities, refereeing/validation. - Analysis – working with lists and indicator species. - Reporting – how-to, the community, ownership and confidentiality. Controversial topics such as species reintroductions are discussed, tips are offered on how to make the most effective use of data, and readers are invited to carry out thought experiments on aspects of their own recording activities as well as considering the future of this all-important discipline. The Biological Recording Handbook provides comprehensive guidance for anyone making wildlife records, whether amateur recorder, ecological consultant or conservation biology academic.

Reconnecting with Nature is the most important public health intervention of our time. Science has shown how our bodies are shaped by our environment – yet we still see ourselves as separate from the natural world. To protect human health, we need to reawaken our inner connection with Nature and prevent the destruction of our environment and the countless species we share it with. At a time of rapid, devastating changes to the environment and ecosystems we rely on, we are struggling with ever-increasing threats to our physical and mental health. More extreme temperatures result in a higher occurrence of diseases such as malaria, while climate change–related crop failures around the world lead to malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies. Worsening air pollution has caused a surge in respiratory illnesses, and new animal pathogens are emerging as humans continue to encroach on and destroy natural habitats. In Nature Within, neuroscientist and doctor James Bashford explains why these and other health problems can only be managed through centring humans within the natural world rather than in opposition to it, and through understanding the natural forces at work within our own bodies. Skilfully weaving together examples of human illnesses like motor neuron disease with nonhuman ailments like Dutch elm disease, Bashford explores how similar principles of health shape our minds and bodies. From chameleons to COVID-19, from nucleic acids to nightingales, Nature has compelling lessons to teach us. Examining human evolutionary history, he shows how our physiology, biochemistry and anatomy – right down to the subcellular domain – have been shaped and sustained by natural interactions over thousands of millennia. But the destruction of natural habitats, the urbanisation of society and the digitalisation of recreation, all in the relentless pursuit of economic growth, have disconnected us from our roots in the natural world. And this is subjecting us to states of overstimulation and hyperarousal that stress our nervous systems beyond our natural capacity. The solution, he argues, is not to place undue blame or expectation on individual lifestyle choices, but rather to embrace ‘small resets’ which, taken together, can start to turn the tide. Offering practical advice on how to renaturalise our senses and rewild our creativity, this book fosters an unwavering optimism in the value of Nature for the conservation of human health – if we can only reconnect.

Field Guide to the Snakes of Eswatini offers a complete account of all 63 snake species recorded in the Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland). Each species is illustrated with stunning photographs, over 300 images in all. The species are described in detail, including size, colouration, habits and diet. Species are presented in colour-coded groups based on the severity of their bite and venom: highly venomous, venomous, venomous but not dangerous, and non-venomous. This system enables the reader to quickly assess the treatment required following a bite and to seek appropriate first aid. Each species is contained in a double-page spread, making it easy for the reader to see all information on that particular snake, and also facilitating easy comparison by flicking between species. Dedicated sections also consider similar-looking species side by side, while there is also a wide-ranging discussion of snake behaviour, Eswatini?s habitats and a host of other fascinating and useful information. The authors each bring nearly 50 years of fieldwork and research experience together in this groundbreaking guide. It will appeal to the experienced herpetologist as well as amateur naturalists, hikers and tourists.

The Merlin Falco columbarius is Europe?s smallest falcon, and its breeding presence is often regarded as a key indicator of a healthy natural environment. A highly adaptable species, it displays a variety of intriguing and contrasting behaviours across its extensive Northern Hemisphere range. Frank Rennie has spent many years observing and researching the characteristics of this important raptor. His landmark volume brings together for the first time many important sources of information from Europe, Asia and North America to better explain the complex and adaptive nature of the Merlin, which make it such a fascinating bird to observe. The book provides in-depth coverage of the complex origins and behaviours of the Merlin, from its obscure fossil ancestors through to the contemporary challenges it faces from habitat destruction, environmental pollution and climate change. Close investigation of its hunting methods, habitat selection and breeding activities reveals some surprising regional differences that offer a new understanding of this critically important, elusive and quietly majestic indicator species.

Through a lifetime of biological and seabird research, Michael Brooke has been blessed with the opportunity to visit a huge array of islands dotted across all the oceans of the world. His is an island list fit to make the armchair traveller green with envy – and potentially seasick. Truly no island has been too far: from St Kilda to Spitsbergen, from Hawaii to the furthest reaches of the Southern Ocean, with all manner of destinations in between. In this deeply knowledgeable and at times humorous book, the author shares the experience of stupendous scenery, amazing wildlife and cutting-edge scientific investigation, all blended with idiosyncratic adventures. We discover a great deal about the peculiar ecology and unique species of islands, looking at everything from plants, mammals, reptiles and birds to human aspects, with a splash of history and anecdote. The engaging journey will appeal to anyone who wants to learn about islands that they will probably never visit in person. The reader will share the day-to-day grind and exhilaration of undertaking fieldwork in remote situations, and reflect on the curious mindset that enables equal pleasure to be extracted from, say, Sicilian architecture and the inexpressibly brown landscapes of Cabo Verde.

Time outdoors is always well spent. It raises the spirits, sparks the imagination and, as research increasingly shows, measurably improves our physical and mental wellbeing. Rhythms of Nature celebrates this fundamental relationship with the natural world, and considers some ways we might rediscover it. After a career in conservation, Ian Carter moves to a secluded farmhouse tucked away in the low hills of mid-Devon between Exmoor and Dartmoor. Here he tries new approaches to exploring the local countryside. He learns the edible species, follows streams (wherever they may lead) and slips unseen through private estates. He experiments with rewilding the garden, goes on night-time rambles and watches the changing seasons in super high definition. Following on from the author’s acclaimed Human, Nature, this engaging and thought-provoking book offers simple suggestions for how to enliven a sense of wonder in our surroundings. A paean to the ‘neglected’ and untidy places that can enrich our lives, it will appeal to anyone wishing to develop a deeper connection with wildlife or who has a desire to seek out the wilder corners of our landscape.

Crossbills and Conifers explores an intimate natural historical connection, revealing why crossbills have become an exemplar of diversification and coevolution. Craig Benkman takes readers on his 40-year journey of research and discovery, exploring a series of unique and interrelated findings about the behavior, ecology, evolution and conservation of a remarkable group of birds. Key to revealing these insights is the ease with which one can measure how variation in bill structure, and conifer cone structure and phenology, influence the efficiency at which crossbills extract seeds from cones. Consumer-resource interactions are fundamental to much of ecology, but such relationships are rarely so readily quantified, not least with the coevolutionary arms race driving the evolution of the newly discovered Cassia Crossbill. This accessible and handsomely illustrated book will appeal to a wide audience. Students of ornithology and evolutionary biology will gain a greater understanding of the value of natural history and especially the utility of knowing when who eats whom and why. Bird enthusiasts and naturalists will learn much about the world of crossbills, the causes of their diversity which has challenged and inspired many ornithologists, and the threats that these birds face.

As we continue to live through a pandemic, all eyes are on microbes: an imperceptible and pervasive threat that hangs heavy on the air and clings to surfaces. But the reality of micro-organisms is far more diverse and life-sustaining than such a notion would have us believe (hence the title of this book). Not only are they omnipresent, but we are highly attuned to their workings – both in the world at large and right here within our own bodies. Meanwhile, cutting-edge microbiome research is changing our understanding of reality, challenging fundamental concepts of free will and individuality. Threaded through everything are microbes: the very glue that holds ecosystems together. This topical, engaging and original book counters the prevailing narrative of microbes as the bane of society, along the way providing much-needed clarity on the overwhelmingly beneficial role they play. We discover how the microbiome is highly relevant to environmental and social equity issues, while there’s also discussion about how microbes may influence our decisions: even the way we think about how we think may need to be revisited. Invisible Friends introduces the reader to a vast, pullulating cohort of minute life – friends you never knew you had.

You don’t have to be an animal rights activist to take an interest in how we treat other creatures. All of us, with few exceptions, use animals in some way: for food, research, recreation and companionship. In Britain we eat around a billion chickens every year, while 60% of all mammals on Earth, by biomass, are now livestock. In 2020, approximately 2.88 million scientific procedures involving living animals were carried out in Great Britain. Because all this happens in our name, as consumers and citizens we have a duty to understand, to care and to exert some influence over how animals are used. But because such use is ingrained in our daily lives and largely happens behind closed doors, we are barely aware of it. The animals deserve better. Understanding the inconsistencies in our attitudes, in the law and in what is deemed acceptable practice is an important first step. This timely and incisive book makes compelling reading for anyone who has an interest in animals, whether wild or domestic, free-living or captive, people intrigued about how their food is produced, and those keen to make informed and intelligent decisions.

Birding has become one of the world’s most popular pastimes for good reason. The vibrant colors, aerial finesse, and vocal talents of birds draw us to nature, stimulate our admiration and pique our curiosity. We cannot help but have questions as we encounter these elegant creatures. How do iridescent feathers seemingly glow? What must a hummingbird do to hover? How does a tiny animal produce all that music? By what means do some birds sense Earth’s magnetic field and use it for navigation? Why is it that peering through a few pieces of glass can make a distant bird seem so close? Such enquiry brings us to the realm of physics. The Physics of Birds and Birding sets out to blaze the best possible trail through this landscape. It steers clear complex technical specialization, while avoiding overused paths that lead to unsatisfying, facile explanations. It is a guide not just to the fascinating science of birds and birding, but to the deeper connections that tie all of nature together. Birders and naturalists from all backgrounds will find much of interest here – both in terms of mysteries they’ve long wondered about, as well as some surprising linkages among what is seemingly unrelated. This unique and remarkable book is an invitation to appreciate what you might not have been seeing all along.