Review of the book: The Atlas of Endangered Species by Richard Mackay

In building the filtered biodiversity table on my Eco page I have tried to find the most accurate sources for the numbers of plants and animals around the world. The purpose behind the exercise is to make the numbers to make sense. If there are a certain numbers of mammals in one area that information doesn’t tell me much when it is not compared to another site. Does the area I am studying have a high percentage mammal species comparatively and how does that affect the local ecosystem similarly? What I am really searching for when exploring the numbers however is how many special status species a site has. This information helps me understand whether a particular habitat is a biodiversity hotspot or an indicator of conservation need. The information is both quantitative and spatial according to what I know best:  southern California.

The Atlas of Endangered Species has done this exact exercise creatively and effectively. Through a mature geo-referenced aesthetic, the book compiles terrific data of the most rare and sensitive species globally. Focusing on taxonomy before spatial concerns, the Atlas explores the bird, reptile, and other animal and plant species that would benefit from conservation prioritization.

As a tool it helps me build context to develop meaning for understanding what it is occurring on all the continents and in our seas. The book doesn’t answer critical questions of value but it helps to create a constructive trajectory of discussion. I would recommend this book as an addition to the conversation of what we’re dealing with in biodiversity work. For a simple snapshot of where we are at, the Atlas is a great tool. For something larger and more complex I still haven’t found the tool to help develop the need and the engagement for rare species engagement but this book takes a great first step.

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