This guide forms part of a series comprising natural history studies of biologically rich countries with a diverse natural heritage. The series also looks at natural environments under pressure from the encroachments of industry and agriculture, and considers the conservation and ecological issues involved. Wild South Africa celebrates the beauty and diversity of this country's unspoilt and less-developed areas, at the same time highlighting some of the more renowned wild places. Around 340 photographs illustrate all aspects of natures cycles in each region, from tiny insects and birds to the larger mammals, as well as fruits, flowers and sweeping landscapes. Indigenous peoples of the various regions are also portrayed at work and play in their natural environment. After an introduction, which covers aspects ranging from geology, plant and animal life to conservation and the future of a truly wild South Africa, each chapter focuses on a specific region. The Eastern Coastal Plain, a wetland area of extraordinary natural diversity; the Eastern and Western Coast zones; the Bushveld, encompassing some of South Africa's richest wildlife areas; the Deserts of the Karoo and Kalahari; and the Mountains from the jagged and spectacular Drakensberg massif to the Cape's dramatic fold mountains. The emphasis is on the untouched natural beauty of the land, with each section highlighting its unique vegetation, animal and bird life, and landscapes.