Accessible, accurate, and up-to-date, with striking color photographs and range maps!"If you love snakes, read this book. If you are repulsed by snakes, definitely read this book and you might just find yourself warming up to these fascinating creatures of mystery and myth."--Daniel Beck, Central Washington University "Vignettes in the book let the armchair reader feel he or she is part of a herpetological adventure. These personal interludes make the book unique, as the straightforward identification varies little from field guide to field guide."--Traci Hartsell, Smithsonian Museum of Natural History "The most impressive aspect of the book is its completeness. Each species account is very complete and includes information far beyond the diagnostic characters and distributions. I learned quite a bit from reading this book."--Jeffrey R. Parmalee, Simpson College Information on how to search for herpetofauna, habitat descriptions, captive care, and a special section on reptiles and the law make these guides the perfect resource for amateur or professional naturalists. They also are ideal for anyone living in or visiting a western state who is interested in knowing more about the natural world around them.