Amphibians and Reptiles of the Rainforests of Southern El Petén, Guatemala

In the early 1960s a small team of naturalists ventured deep into the untouched rainforests of southern El Petén, Guatemala, using an oil‑company airstrip as a base. Their field season, set against the backdrop of a newly built road, allowed them to collect dozens of amphibians and reptiles as the crews felled towering trees, revealing hidden arboreal life. The resulting volume blends vivid descriptions of the forest’s climate, vegetation, and geography with a meticulous inventory of 77 species gathered from over six hundred specimens.

Readers will find clear, illustrated accounts of each amphibian and reptile, highlighting their habits, habitats, and the ecological roles they play in this lush lowland region. Accompanied by photographs, plates, and concise maps, the work also reflects on the collaborative effort of local guides, researchers, and support staff who made the study possible. It offers a snapshot of a biodiverse ecosystem at a moment when its primary forest was still largely intact.