Egypt's Wildlife: Past and Present

Ancient EgyptÕs temples and tombs encompass images of exotic animals, birds, and plants that are no longer found in the country today, while the fossils of dinosaurs and ancient whales reveal an extraordinary legacy from prehistoric times. EgyptÕs environment has changed dramatically over millennia, and the species that have survived have made their homes in diverse terrain: deserts and mountains, the Nile Valley and sea coasts, temple ruins, and even city skies and streets.
Today, EgyptÕs vibrant habitats host amazing cat, canine, and bird species, exotic residents like crocodiles and bats, numerous reptiles, butterflies, and insects, and domesticated animals like the camel. Tracing the history of EgyptÕs extinct species reveals an unusual timeline of geological transformations and climate change. The natural history of Egypt is often overlooked, yet invaluable to understanding Egyptology, as well as the countryÕs future as the environment continues to drastically change.
This colorful book combines the artwork and text of four of the AUC Press Nature Foldouts: EgyptÕs Flora & Fauna, Birds of the Nile Valley, Ancient EgyptÕs Wildlife, and EgyptÕs Prehistoric Fauna. Including striking full-color illustrations, photographs, diagrams and maps, and information from leading scientific experts, this book is a great introduction to EgyptÕs unique natural history.