A Field Guide to the Natural World of the Twin Cities

An illustrated guide to the natural habitats and rich diversity of wildlife in the greater Minneapolis and St. Paul metro area Though the Twin Cities and environs have proven a fine habitat for one particular species, the three million humans who call the area home share these 3,000 square miles with myriad animals and plants, all in a mosaic of various ecosystems. While most of the regionu2019s wildlife has lost its original habitat to agriculture and urban development, a significant patchwork of native and restored habitat remains-prairies, woods, and wetlands, along with pockets in the parks and open spaces throughout the cities and suburbs. This easy-to-use guide gives novice and long-time naturalists alike the tools to find and explore these natural places in the metropolitan Twin Cities, some within the city limits and all within an houru2019s drive of downtown Minneapolis.John J. Moriarty is a congenial expert on the remarkable diversity of plants and animals in the regionu2019s habitats, from prairies and savannas to woods and wetlands such as swamps and marshes, to fens and bogs, lakes and rivers, and urban and suburban spots. Featuring Siah L. St. Clairu2019s remarkable photographs, maps, and commentary on natural history, this field guide invites readers to investigate the Twin Citiesu2019 wildlife-familiar and obscure, sun-loving or nocturnal, shy or easily observed. Here are snapping turtles, otters, and Cooperu2019s hawks, the wild lupines, white water lilies, and sprawling white oaks, among hundreds of species found in the wild, the park, or even the backyard. Including notes on invasive species and a list of references and organizations, this book is a perfect companion and an unparalleled resource for anyone interested in discovering the rich natural world of the Twin Cities.