Book: Powells Native Animals of New Zealand (FR024) -

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Powell's Native Animals of New Zealand
by Arthur William Baden Powell
4th edition, 2006, David Bateman Ltd, 94pp, softcover

For several generations of New Zealanders interested in nature, AWB Powell's Native Animals of New Zealand has been an introduction to the fauna of New Zealand, and a means of identifying common animals.  The book's strengths are the simple descriptions, clear drawings, and inexpensive format.

Do you remember this book from your school days?  Maybe your copy had a slightly paler, buff coloured cover.   I remember my copy.  Native Animals of New Zealand was, and still is, THE book for identifying shells, isea creatures, insects, butterflies, fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. 

The book looks much the same inside as it did when I was a kid, but it has been added to, with the Maori name for each of the creatures.  Information has also been updated by staff at the Auckland Museum.

Powell's fabulous drawings provide a highly effective way to identify New Zealand animals, and despite all the glossy, colourful textbooks one can buy these days, I've found none that are as comprehensive nor so easy to read and use in the identification of species.

Every New Zealand home should have this book, and every Kiwi overseas should have this book to explain New Zealand's native fauna to others interested in our beautiful country.