Author(s): Steve Parish

Field Guides

Australia is the only country in the world where representatives of the three major mammal types (placentals, marsupials and monotremes) are found. The country's sustained isolation from the rest of the world has allowed a fascinating and highly specialised collection of mammals to populate the continent's hugely varied habitats. Among the country's 356 native species are some of the most distinctive and rare mammals on Earth. Unfortunately, 24 introduced species (including Homo sapiens) have also established themselves across a wide range of Australian habitats, much to the continued detriment of Australia's native species. Enhanced by beautiful photography, this Wild Australia Guide traces the history of Australia's mammalian evolution, profiles key species from the major orders, and includes up-to-date conservation information to help raise awareness about the kinds of threats our native mammals face.