Published by McDonald and Woodward Publishing Company

When we think of carnivores in the wild we imagine Tigers, Sharks and similar ferocious creatures, But Plants as carnivores? Yes it is very true, there are many species of plants that rely on catching live prey for sustenance. The Pitcher plant is one of the many fascinating carnivorous plants that hunt our forests, fields and water systems. Pitcher Plants of the Americas by Stewart McPherson and published by McDonald and Woodward Publishing Company is an incredibly in depth look at these fascinating plants. Filled with amazingly beautiful color photographs, Pitcher Plants of the Americas offers a complete and comprehensive overview of the 5 genera of Pitcher Plants found in the Americas. This reference guide is clear, concise and very fascinating. These plants are marvels of evolution, hardy enough to survive in areas that other plants are unable and so beautiful that they generate serious greenhouse attention. Stewart McPherson offers a very clear picture on the health of the species as a whole and the environmental concerns that Pitcher plants like face today. Pitcher Plants of the Americas by Stewart McPherson and published by McDonald and Woodward Publishing Company is a fantastic effort and a incredible insight into an amazing plant. It is a must-read for any natural history buff.

The appreciation of nature and the delight in visiting our nearby woodlands and forests is an activity enjoyed by many and the birds and animals that inhabit these systems are dependant on the many variety of trees within. Wildlife & Trees in British Columbia by Mike Fenger,  Todd Manning, John Cooper, Stewart Guy and Peter Bradford and published by Lone Pine Publishing is an excellent resource to illustrating the importance of trees to various species.  Wildlife & Trees in British Columbia was produced through a joint effort by biologists and foresters to help gain awareness to the significance of wildlife trees. Wildlife trees are “any standing dead or living tree with special characteristics that provide vitally important habitat for the conservation or enhancement of wildlife”. This well researched guide offers an in-depth overview of wildlife trees and their dependent species, including cavity users, excavators and open nesters. Filled with beautiful color photos, illustrations and range maps for over 90 species this is an incredible resource. Wildlife & Trees in British Columbia by Mike Fenger,  Todd Manning, John Cooper, Stewart Guy and Peter Bradford and published by Lone Pine Publishing will make you realize which trees are wildlife trees, the role they play in the ecosystem and how critically important they are to our native species. It is a must have for any naturalist’s, birdwatcher’s or outdoor enthusiast’s library.

The trees of the world are varied and diverse in appearance, form and function. They are the cornerstones to many environments and crucial to our planets health. DK Eyewitness Companions – Trees by Colin Ridsdale, John White and Carol Usher and published by DK Publishing is an excellent reference book on these fascinating plants. Trees covers each species of tree with colorful reference photos and accurate descriptions that include bark, leaf, flower and fruit. DK Eyewitness Companions – Trees by Colin Ridsdale, John White and Carol Usher and published by DK Publishing is a handy reference guide that will be a welcome addition to any home library.

Peterson Field Guides - Western Medicinal Plants and Herbs by Steven Foster and Christopher Hobbs.

 Peterson Field Guides has produced another winner. Western Medicinal Plants and Herbs by Steven Foster and Christopher Hobbs is a gorgeous guide book by, pardon the pun, the leaders in the field. This particular field guides sets the standard by which all medicinal plant guides should follow. Brilliant colour photographs of the over 500 identified species organized by colour for quick reference helps any novice quickly identify the plant and what’ll happen if you try to make tea out of it. The detailed plant descriptions also include scientific name, family, location found, historical medicinal uses as well as highlighted warnings for poisons, allergies and other areas of caution. A very unique and special field guide Western Medicinal Plants and Herbs also offers harvesting and conservation tips. Pick this book up before you even considering picking flowers, herbs or plants for uses other than the filling your vase, it’s a must have for anyone spending  any extended time in the outdoors.