Book review:- New Zealand’s Native Mammals by Carolyn King, published by White Cloud books from Upstart press. price $34.99 (available early October)
reviewed by Tony Orman.
New Zealand is unique world-wide in terms of native mammals. There were no four legged animals but there were two only bat species of unique and ancient descent yet over 50 species of seals, dolphins and whales. The author Professor Carolyn King says the book “is intended as a simple guide for anyone interested in discovering the native mammals of New Zealand.” The author achieves this aim skilfully and in a concise manner aided by a good sprinkling of photos, maps and illustrations.
The author writes of ” the Polynesian colonists being the first human voyagers to settle in Zealandia in the late 13th century,” who found no land mammals except “great populations of bats pouring out of cave and tree roosts.” Of course there is debate as to whether there were other humans present before the Polynesian colonists but currently there seems no certainty either way. The Polynesian migrants did bring the kiore rat and the kuri dog but otherwise the vast majority of native mammals were marine species such as 48 species of dolphins and whales.
The book lists species in conventional order with a brief description and where they might be seen. It’s an invaluable guide, judiciously introducing the reader to the country’s unique mammal scenario and then encouraging the reader to seek further detail about a fascinating subject.
Interesting subject and seems ideal for young Kiwis. Get them outdoors, wondering and seeking.