The Venomous Snakes of China by Dr Kevin. R. Messenger & Jing Zang.
The Venomous Snakes of China is the most comprehensive English-language reference on China’s venomous snakes published in nearly a century, and the first modern successor to Clifford Pope’s landmark The Reptiles of China (1935). Drawing on decades of fieldwork, research, and collaboration, this volume presents an unprecedented synthesis of scientific knowledge and visual documentation.
This authoritative work profiles 131 species of venomous snakes, including elapids, vipers, and rear-fanged species, illustrated through 1,559 photographs across 1,005 figures. Each species account includes clear diagnostic images, detailed natural history information, distribution maps, and ecological context, making the book both accessible and scientifically rigorous.
Designed for herpetologists, wildlife professionals, naturalists, students, and serious enthusiasts, The Venomous Snakes of China examines not only species identification, but also behaviour, habitat use, and conservation significance. Whether used as a reference, field companion, or educational resource, this volume sets a new standard for modern herpetological scholarship in China and the surrounding region.
