590 Zoological Sciences
Hall-Martin, Anthony. Cats of Africa. (Illus. by Paul Bosman.) Washington, DC: Smithsonian Institution Press, 1998. 152pp. $45.00. ISBN 1-56098-760-X. Index; C.I.P.
EA–T, GA ++
This book is a delight—an extremely fine survey of the topic and a model for similar works. It combines an extremely readable text, authoritative in its scientific detail, with graceful line drawings and luminous paintings of the 10 species of African cats. These animals are compared and contrasted with one another, with all represented as integral parts of their increasingly fragile ecosystems. Five of the species are well known (lion, leopard, cheetah, caracal, and serval), while five are less accessible (African wildcat, black-footed cat, swamp cat, sand cat, and African golden cat). All are discussed in separate chapters, with the length of the chapter reflecting the knowledge gleaned either from the observation of wild and captive specimens by the author and illustrator or from published sources. Maps summarize the distribution, habitat, size, diet, reproduction, and behavior, of each cat, as well as whether it is endangered. The authors also indicate which taxonomic system they follow in naming the felines. The volume has a short glossary, a selected bibliography, and a list of addresses for contacting organizations devoted to cat conservation, research, or rehabilitation. The authors are frank in their discussions of the controversy regarding conservation methods for these animals, the problems caused by their preying on livestock, and the pressures of an increasing human population. The presentations on each cat often pinpoint areas in which detailed knowledge is lacking or define areas of dispute over naming the animals, the interrelationships among subspecies, and interbreeding with other wild or domestic felines. Any person (child or adult) will appreciate the artist's work. The text is fully accessible to an advanced elementary school reader, yet not at all lacking in detail and discussion appropriate to an older audience.—Donna J. Carothers, Cleveland Heights, OH
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