The Natural History Of The South Downs National Park

The concept of ’natural heritage’ has become increasingly significant with the threat of dwindling resources, environmental degradation and climatic change. As humanity’s impact on the condition of life on earth has become more prominent, a discernible shift in the relationship between western society and the environment has taken place. This is reflective of wider historical processes which reveal a constantly changing association between humanity’s definition and perception of what ’nature’ constitutes or what can be defined as ’natural’. From the ornate collections of specimens which formed the basis of a distinct concept of ’nature’ emerging during the Enlightenment, this definition and the wider relationship between humanity and natural history have reflected issues of identity, place and politics in the modern era. This book examines this process and focuses on the ideas, values and agendas that have defined the representation and reception of the history of the natural world, including geology and palaeontology, within contemporary society, addressing how the heritage of natural history, whether through museums, parks, tourist sites or popular culture is used to shape social, political, cultural and moral identities. It will be of interest to scholars and practitioners within heritage studies, public history, ecology, environmental studies and geography.

The Geology and Scenery of the South Downs National Park provides an introduction to the origin and characteristics of the rocks that underlie the Park. It describes how the scenic features of different parts of the Park are related to the geological history of the region and to the processes of weathering and erosion that have acted on the rocks in the past - and those which continue to modify the landscape at the present day.

The only 'Slow' guide to Sussex and Britain's newest national park, the South Downs.

A unique collection of concise but detailed information on 10,000 animals, plants, fungi and algae of the British Isles. Every species with an English common name is included. The compendium is in two parts. The first, smaller part, looks at various terms that people interested in natural history may come across. The second provides information on individual species or species groups, with entries on those with English (common) names, as well as selected families, orders, classes, etc. In the case of marine organisms, entries are given for intertidal and subtidal invertebrate species, and generally speaking for fish species that might be observed inshore. Indication is often given on distribution as well as whether a species is common, scarce or something in between. For some species a note is made of population size and trends. Comments are made where appropriate on etymology, both of the English name and the binomial. No other natural history dictionary or cognate publication relating to the British Isles is as comprehensive in taxonomic cover.

This beautiful book combines the author's extensive ecological knowledge with art, and her passion for drawing with ink. It is packed with clear instruction and inspirational illustrations, and will be treasured by artists, illustrators, scientists and ecologists alike. Practical advice is given on using a range of materials and equipment for illustrating in pen and ink, as well as the collection and preservation of subject matter and reference material. Detailed instruction is given on how to create essential mark-making techniques that will enhance your illustrations through accurate depiction of shape, form, texture and pattern, and in the principles and elements of design. Subject-themed chapters include plants, strandline and marine specimens, fossils, invertebrates, and mammals. There are step-by-step exercises suitable for all skill levels, and case studies describing working practice as a professional illustrator.

This book guides readers through the most iconic geologically significant scenery in the UK, points out features of interest, explains what they are, and describes how these features came to be. It illustrates numerous regions, explaining classic locations in the development of geology and paleontology in the United Kingdom, giving readers a tour through sites of special scientific interest. The author puts the geology of Britain in a plate tectonic context and discusses the history of sedimentary basins, mountain building, volcanism, and glacial features. Features Clearly explains the geology of regions with emphasis on landscape formation Lavishly illustrated with numerous colorful maps and breathtaking geological landscapes and their various features Describes the major geologic features of the United Kingdom through the device of a geologic tour for those without any geology training as well as professionals Written in easy-to-understand language, the author brings his own experience to readers who want to explore and understand geologic sites firsthand The United Kingdom’s Natural Wonders is an inviting text giving individuals with no background in geology the opportunity to understand key geologic aspects of local landscapes. It also serves as a guide to undergraduate- and graduate-level students taking courses in earth science programs, such as geology, geophysics, geochemistry, mining engineering, and petroleum engineering. Teachers of these courses can also use this book to better understand their local geologic environment and geography.