Because Florida's human population has increased so dramatically over the past three decades, residents are more likely than ever to encounter a snake or legless lizard. This volume is designed to dispel some of the apprehension from these encounters by providing a comprehensive, illustrated guide to the 86 species and subspecies of snakes and legless lizards living within the state. Each reptile is illustrated with a colour photograph accompanied by a range map detailing where it can be found. The descriptions of each animal provide specific details on appearance, size, behaviour and venomous qualities. Additional text addresses captive care (for those who would like to live ""up close"" with these animals), how to find snakes (you have to look, because they are smart enough to know that people mean trouble), legal issues (many species are protected), reproduction modes, prey and prey procurement, and an explanation of classification.