New book co-authored by Brad Shaffer covers conservation risks faced by sensitive California species

One of the most important hotspots of biodiversity in the United States, California is home to many native amphibians and reptiles found nowhere else on earth.  Climate change impacts, human development, and extreme drought mean these unique species face an ever-greater risk of extinction. Published in association with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, California Amphibian and Reptile Species of Special Concern provides an up-to-date synthesis of the current state of knowledge regarding the biology and conservation risks faced by 45 of California’s most sensitive amphibian and reptile species. With the goal of enhancing management based on the best available science, the authors developed a novel set of risk metrics to identify special concern species and the threats they face. Complemented by detailed distribution maps, color photographs, and graphs, the volume focuses on identifying threats, concrete recommendations for management and recovery, and future research needs.