Ecological principles are explained while introducing students to some of the mathematical techniques used to develop ecological models. The book builds models beginning with first principles, and then gently makes each formulation accessible to students through a step-by-step development of equations paired with lavish illustrations. Theoretical developments are then applied to practical issues in conservation to provie a more visceral understanding of the purpose and utility of the theory, where it might need modification to fit the real world and future directions. The book's great advantage is in its visual presentation of conceptual issues.