The New B.C. Roadside Naturalist

Discover a whole new dimension to taking a car trip with this fascinating guide to the roadside ecology of the major highways in British Columbia. Each of the 13 chapters covers one highway in the province. Beginning with an overview of the highway (the area it covers, the general characteristics of that area, and the changes in climate and vegetation), each chapter then provides a detailed description of the land-forms, vegetation, and animal life in each section of that highway, along with tips for how to identify different species. Sidebars inform on various species, such as the huge, endangered sturgeon and the Great Basin spadefoot toad, which spends most of the year underground. Full-color photographs and black-and-white drawings illustrate the plants and animals that make their homes along the roadsides of British Columbia, and maps show the route of each highway discussed. In addition, the book offers suggestions for where to stop and look for crayfish, enjoy a swim in summer, or have a picnic lunch. An appendix provides a brief field guide of tree silhouettes and hints for identifying trees and shrubs.