Life in Cold Blood offers a rare glimpse into the peculiar world of
amphibians and reptiles, the first vertebrate creatures to venture forth
from the primeval waters millions of years ago, yet which today include
species that are the most at risk of extinction. Join acclaimed
naturalist Sir David Attenborough as he travels to the far corners of
the Earth to tell the epic story of these animals in this companion to
the television series. Discover the secrets of their astounding
success--and the profound implications of their uncertain future.
Amphibians and reptiles once ruled the planet, and their descendants
exhibit some of the most colorful variety and astounding behavior known
to the animal kingdom. What are the origins of these creatures? How have
they transformed themselves into the beautiful and bizarre forms found
today? In this gorgeously illustrated book, Attenborough gets up close
and personal with the living descendants of the first vertebrates ever
to colonize the land, and through them traces the fascinating history of
their pioneering ancestors. He explains the ways amphibians and reptiles
have changed little from their prehistoric forebears while also
demonstrating how they have adapted and evolved into diverse new forms,
some of them beyond our wildest imaginings. And Attenborough raises
awareness of the threats global warming and other man-made environmental
changes pose to many of these creatures. Life in Cold Blood inspires a
genuine sense of wonder about amphibians and reptiles and the marvels of
the natural world around us.
