"An invaluable reference -- comprehensive, readable and filled with stunning color photographs." This landmark reference by award-winning nature writer Adrian Forsyth includes scientific names, descriptions and behavioral information for the wild mammals of North America, but is much more than a field guide. In engaging language, the author delves into the reasons the animals live and act the way they do, explaining for example: Why some predators are highly social while others live alone Why shrews no bigger than a thimble eat more than their body weight each day How a bat can pick a small insect off the surface of a leaf in total darkness How a squat prehistoric pig-like animal evolved into the pronghorn antelope, one of the world's fastest creatures. The text is illustrated with exquisite color photographs by some of North America's foremost wildlife photographers, making Mammals of North America an important nature reference for the entire family.