Ponds
An Illustrated Guide
Will be published approx. on 24. February 2026
Book
Paperback/Softback
288 pages
978-0-300-28496-6 (ISBN)
Description
A comprehensive introduction to the natural history of ponds, small lakes, and other quiet or still bodies of water in the eastern United States
This richly illustrated guide introduces readers to the biology and structure of freshwater ponds, smaller lakes, and associated wetlands in the eastern United States, and to the natural life that thrives in and around them-the flora, insects, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and fish.
Through photographs, illustrations, and detailed diagrams, Patrick J. Lynch brings ponds to life in their great variety, from freshwater marshes and swamps to vernal pools, bogs and pocosins, and beyond. He explains the natural and environmental history of these special regions: Why and how have they evolved? Why are they important to the larger ecological picture? And how are human activity and climate change defining the present and changing the future of these precious ecosystems?
Lynch's guide is concise yet comprehensive, an indispensable tool for natural history buffs, birders, anglers, boaters, canoers, hikers, and environmental educators.
This richly illustrated guide introduces readers to the biology and structure of freshwater ponds, smaller lakes, and associated wetlands in the eastern United States, and to the natural life that thrives in and around them-the flora, insects, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and fish.
Through photographs, illustrations, and detailed diagrams, Patrick J. Lynch brings ponds to life in their great variety, from freshwater marshes and swamps to vernal pools, bogs and pocosins, and beyond. He explains the natural and environmental history of these special regions: Why and how have they evolved? Why are they important to the larger ecological picture? And how are human activity and climate change defining the present and changing the future of these precious ecosystems?
Lynch's guide is concise yet comprehensive, an indispensable tool for natural history buffs, birders, anglers, boaters, canoers, hikers, and environmental educators.
Reviews / Votes
"Patrick Lynch has created a completely unique, recognizable, and friendly concept and design for highly informative and much-needed natural history guides. Ponds is the latest of his stunning books, and I love it!"-Carl Safina, PhD, author of Alfie and Me: What Owls Know, What Humans Believe"Pat Lynch has carved out a remarkable niche as the premier field guide author working today. His books are designed so that the outstanding illustrations and lucid writing work together seamlessly."-David Skelly, Frank R. Oastler Professor of Ecology, Yale University, and director, Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History
"I love this book! Ponds is a stunning guide to pond life for the twenty-first century and offers bright and beautifully rendered illustrations and lots of new information. It is your own personal introduction to a colorful and magical world."-James Prosek, artist, and author of Eels: An Exploration, from New Zealand to the Sargasso, of the World's Most Mysterious Fish
"A remarkable, comprehensive natural history of freshwater ponds and wetlands across the eastern United States. Beautifully illustrated with Patrick Lynch's artwork and photographs, this is a must-have for all nature enthusiasts."-Milan Bull, Connecticut Audubon Society
"I am the proud owner, and frequent user, of most of Pat's books. His ability to weave together fascinating details and stunning visuals on just about any topic he chooses is unrivaled."-Twan Leenders, director of conservation, Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
United States
Target group
Professional and scholarly
Product notice
Paperback (trade)
Illustrations
782 color illus.
Dimensions
Height: 229 mm
Width: 175 mm
Thickness: 20 mm
Weight
748 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-300-28496-6 (9780300284966)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Person
Patrick J. Lynch is an award-winning author, photographer, and artist. He is the author of numerous books, including A Field Guide to the Connecticut River and A Field Guide to the Mid-Atlantic Coast. He lives in North Haven, CT.