Whether you are a bird-watcher, an angler, a hiker, a diver, an environmentalist, or merely a weekend nature lover, the "Field Guide to the Eastern and Southern Cape Coasts" will provide hours of fascinating reading and be an invaluable reference fore ears to come. As well as describing the many rich and varied ecosystems along the extremely popular coastal area from Mossel Bay to the Kei River Mouth, this user-friendly guide also explores the human impact on the environment and need for conservation management. Written by specialists in their various fields, this reference guide: investigates the rich diversity of plants and animals in this region and their conservation; examines the relationships between plants and animals in the marine, estuarine, freshwater and terrestrial environments and describes the functioning of these ecosystems; explores interesting, little-known facts of local history and archaeology, which should fascinate both visitors to the area and residents alike; provides details on local fish, fishing spots, choice of tackle and fishing regulations; and, gives useful information on the many hiking and nature trails in the area. The drawings, tables, maps and a sixteen-page colour section make this guide extremely accessible to all, and even amateurs should be able to identify the plants and animals of this diverse region.