Orchids of Britain and Ireland: A Field and Site Guide

Description

Orchids have long held a fascination, both for keen botanists and the general public. From the mania of Victorian collectors to the enthusiasm of modern photographers, this family of flowering plants has a strange and exotic appeal. Many orchids are beautiful, and some are rare. The time is ripe for a new, well illustrated orchid guide, covering the identification, biology and conservation of British and Irish orchids. Until recently, the whereabouts of the rarer species was shrouded in secrecy, making publication of any details ethically impossible. In the last few years, however, these veils have been lifted and it is now possible to publish locations for all but one or two species. For the first time, this book includes a detailed site guide, covering the best places to see orchids in Britain. "A model field guide: good, large photographs that are actually rather gorgeous; a clear text that tells you how to identify the plant using the English language rather than "botanicalese"; useful diagrams of those spectacular flower parts; and a really comprehensive section on geographical range and subspecies." The Daily Telegraph

Anne Harrap is a botanist with a Masters in Ecology. Simon Harrap is an ornithologist and naturalist with indepth knowledge of British nature. He has seen and photographed virtually every British orchid.

"A model field guide: good, large photographs that are actually rather gorgeous; a clear text that tells you how to identify the plant using the English language rather than "botanicalese"; useful diagrams of those spectacular flower parts; and a really comprehensive section on geographical range and subspecies." * The Daily Telegraph (26 Nov 2006) * "This book is a colourful, characterful, and comprehensive guide to Britain's most glamorous plants. I cannot imagine being without it as soon as it is published. It has excellent photographs, detailed maps, good sound and comprehensive biological notes and, most importantly, all of the information the reader needs to go and enjoy the species for themselves." Chris Packham * BBC Wildlife Magazine (3 March 2006) * "A rich gallery of British orchids in all their wonderful variety." * British Wildlife * "This splendid book offers everything you ever wanted to know about orchids - and perhaps just as much you didn't! A highly recommended read for the aspiring naturalist or simple nature lover." * Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust * "A major contribution to the 21st Century's knowledge of wild orchid in the British Isles... heartily recommended for both the novice and professional alike." * SIDA (2006) * 'A complete guide to these beautiful plants, perfect for both the keen botanist and the more general reader.' * Wildlife Magazine *