Spiders of Britain and Northern Europe [over 450 species].

Collins Field Guide. First published 1996. 17th edition, 13th pressing. Preface dated 1995. Spiders are the most obvious group of animals - they share with us our houses and gardens. They also have some of the most fascinating colours, behaviour and biology. This book is designed to aid identification of these animals, without using any complicated keys or equipment. Each of the 450 species covered is illustrated in colour, with paintings of all the common colour variations and differences between the sexes, and described in detail in the text. The general features of each family are also described, with information on courtship, hunting and web-making behaviour. A key to spiders' webs is also included in the introduction. Each species has illustrations of its genitalia - to allow conclusive identification of the species. Contents: Preface; How to Use this Book; Introduction; Spiders and their Near Relatives; The Biology of Spiders; The Structure of Spiders; Senses and Communication; Lide History; Spider Bites; Collecting and Preserving Spiders; Hunting; Trapping; Codes of Conduct and Safety; Preservation; Identifying and Recording Spiders; Identifying Preserved Spiders; Identifying Spiders in the Field; The Spider Recording Scheme; The Names and Classifications of Spiders; Names; Pronunciation; Key to the Families of Northern European Spiders; Egg Sacs; Webs; General Introduction; The Webs; Web Construction; Suborder Orthognatha (Mygalomorphae); Suborder Labidognatha (Araneomorphae); Glossary; Associations, Societies and Journals; Suppliers of Equipment and Books; Bibliography; Index.