This book is endorsed by some of the most prominent people in UK arachnology. In his forward, Lawrence Bee (coauthor of the now famous Field Guide to UK Spiders) laments the lack of anything like this wonderful little book when he began the study of spiders. Helen Smith, conservation officer for the British Arachnological Society, adds her blessing with a short but comprehensive introduction to the conservation of British spiders. Richard then provides a brief introduction to this ubiquitous group followed by their role in mythology and superstition. The next section outlines spider biology and is followed by a set of diagrams of spider anatomy. The bulk of the book comprises a series of Richard’s excellent paintings of the common or more distinctive spiders found in the UK, which are accompanied by a series of short species accounts.
The book is intended to introduce beginners to the fascinating world of spiders and stimulate further enquiry. It is not, as Richard clearly states in his introduction, a definitive guide, as it deals with only 20% of the UK spider fauna. The illustrations include each species in a natural pose, plus any variations in abdominal pattern that are shown separately along with the images of their webs and egg cocoons where they are distinctive.
This is an introduction that will engage and inspire anyone who is curious about this enigmatic group of invertebrates. Richard’s superb paintings are clear and detailed, allowing easy comparison with living spiders in the field. The species accounts provide enough information to allow confirmation (or rejection) of a visual identification but are brief enough for a quick scan under field conditions.
As interest in the natural world continues to grow, more and more people will become aware of the spiders that live in their homes and gardens. This pocket guide will enable people to appreciate spiders. Appreciation leads to understanding and tolerance. While spiders continue to have a negative profile in the media, this book will help to redress the balance and steer the public perception of spiders in a more positive direction.
Richard is to be congratulated on the production of an easy-to-use guide to a group of invertebrates that is often considered difficult to identify.
