"The Mammals of Washtenaw County, Michigan" by Norman Asa Wood is a detailed account of the mammal species found in Washtenaw County, Michigan, likely published in 1922. Here's a breakdown of the potential content:
Focus:
- The book serves as a scientific record of the mammalian fauna of Washtenaw County at the time.
- Wood, likely a mammalogist or naturalist, provides detailed descriptions and distributional information for each species.
Content:
Species Coverage: Wood likely documents a variety of mammals inhabiting Washtenaw County, potentially including:
- Large mammals like white-tailed deer, coyotes, red foxes, and beavers.
- Small mammals like shrews, moles, voles, mice, and squirrels.
- Bats – a diverse group with unique adaptations for flight and echolocation.
Detailed Descriptions: Each mammal species likely has a dedicated section with information on:
- Physical characteristics (size, fur coloration, distinguishing features).
- Habitat preferences within Washtenaw County (forests, wetlands, prairies).
- Diet and feeding behavior.
- Range and distribution within the county, including maps if available.
- Potential breeding habits and social behavior.
Geographical Context: The book might include a brief overview of the geographical features of Washtenaw County, potentially including:
- Descriptions of the dominant habitat types like forests, grasslands, wetlands, and waterways.
- Explanations of how these habitats provide suitable niches for various mammal species.
Early 20th Century Context: The book reflects the scientific understanding and classification systems used in the early 1920s.
- Some terminology or species classifications might differ slightly from modern mammalogy.
Overall Significance:
"The Mammals of Washtenaw County, Michigan" serves as a valuable historical baseline for understanding the mammal diversity of the region. Wood's work provides:
- A detailed record of the mammal species present in Washtenaw County in the early 20th century.
- A benchmark for assessing changes in mammal populations over time due to habitat loss, climate change, or human activity.
- Insights into the ecology and distribution of mammals within the Great Lakes region.
Additional Notes:
- The book likely includes scientific keys or identification guides to aid in recognizing different mammal species.
- It might mention potential threats faced by some mammal populations in the early 20th century.
- The information in the book can be a valuable reference point for further studies on mammal populations in Washtenaw County.
In conclusion, "The Mammals of Washtenaw County, Michigan" by Norman Asa Wood offers a comprehensive and informative resource for understanding the historical and contemporary mammal diversity of this region within Michigan.
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