Xiaoming Wang and Richard H. Tedford have spent the past 20 years
studying the evolutionary history of the family Canidae. Both are well
known for having established the modern framework for the evolutionary
relationship of canids. Combining their research with Mauricio Antón's
impeccable reconstructions of both extinct and extant species, Wang and
Tedford present a remarkably detailed and nuanced portrait of the origin
and evolution of canids over the past 40 million years.
The authors cull their history from the most recent scientific research
conducted on the vast collections of the American Museum of Natural
History and other leading institutions. The fossil record of the
Canidae, particularly those from their birth place in North America, are
the strongest of their kind among known groups of carnivorans. Such a
wonderfully detailed evolutionary history provides access to a natural
history that is not possible with many other groups of carnivorans.
With their rich fossil record, diverse adaptations to various
environments, and different predatory specializations, canids are an
ideal model organism for the mapping of predator behavior and
morphological specializations. They also offer an excellent contrast to
felids, which remain entrenched in extreme predatory specializations.
The innovative illustrated approach in this book is the perfect
accompaniment to an extremely important branch of animal and fossil
study. It transforms the science of paleontology into a thrilling visual
experience and provides an unprecedented reference for anyone fascinated
by dogs.
