The newts of Leech River

This is the Collins field guide to the reptiles and amphibians of Europe. The guide covers all of Europe except European Russia east of Moscow. The Canary Islands, Madeira and Greek islands in the East Aegean are included.

Each species presentation is divided into five sections: Range, Identification, Variation, Similar Species, Habits. The book also contains keys to aid identification. The colour plates are quite good.

Every European species is described, but many are not illustrated, an annoying trait of many field guides!

Biggest surprise? The sand boa. I didn't know there were native boas in Europe. My personal experience of European amphibians and reptiles is limited to newts in the Leech Stream, as "our" local haunt was actually called. (Hardly a river!)

And yes, those newts are included in this field guide.

What a pity we didn't have sand boas!