Common Spiders of North America - Softcover

"Every few years a field guide emerges with artwork so stunning the book is worth owning regardless of whether you plan to identify anything with it. Richard Bradley's Common Spiders of North America is just such a book. Buy it. You won't regret it. . . .an instant classic. Highly recommended." -- Alex Wild, * Myrmecos * "People with an interest in North American spiders should enjoy this book." * The Guardian * "This is a fabulous book, worthy of a place on the bookshelves of any arachnological library." * British Arachnological Society Newsletter * "A concise illustrated introduction to spider biology and anatomy explains spider relationships, this book is a critical resource for curious naturalists who want to understand this ubiquitous and ecologically critical component of our biosphere." * BioOne * "Bradley's admiration of and attention to these animals is evident. . . .The result is not only a remarkable compendium of information about conspicuous spiders in North America, but a gateway to their study and appreciation." * American Entomologist *

Spiders are among the most diverse groups of terrestrial invertebrates, yet they are among the least studied and understood. This first comprehensive guide to all 68 spider families in North America beautifully illustrates 469 of the most commonly encountered species. Group keys enable identification by web type and other observable details, and species descriptions include identification tips, typical habitat, geographic distribution, and behavioral notes. A concise illustrated introduction to spider biology and anatomy explains spider relationships. This book is a critical resource for curious naturalists who want to understand this ubiquitous and ecologically critical component of our biosphere.