A compact, user-friendly guide to ecologically significant animal species of the Northwest Coast A keystone species is an organism that defines and supports an entire ecosystem, filling a vital ecological niche. Without these species, ecosystems would be radically altered or even collapse. This full-color, pocket-sized field guide by best-selling naturalist Collin Varner highlights fifty keystone birds, mammals, amphibians, insects, fish, shellfish, and mollusks found across the Pacific Northwest bioregion. Species profiled include the American crow, bald eagle, American beaver, California sea lion, sea otter, orca, coyote, grizzly bear, giant Pacific octopus, Chinook salmon, Pacific tree frog, Pacific banana slug, and mixed bumblebee. Each entry features clear photography, etymology, descriptions, habitat information, and risks and warnings. This convenient and easy-to-use reference is perfect for walkers, hikers, campers, beachcombers, sailors, paddlers, and whale watchers and important for raising awareness of the need to conserve and protect these vital species. "Collin Varner provides captivating information that will help keep his 50 keystone species in the back of every reader's memory."―Richard Beamish, CM, OBC, FRSC, retired Canadian scientist "High quality images, succinct species descriptions, and natural history facts make Collin Varner's 50 Keystone Fauna Species of Coastal British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest: A Pocket Guide the perfect portable reference for wildlife watchers. It is sure to enhance the experience and awareness of both visitors and residents of the region."―Barbara J. Moritsch, ecologist and author of Wolf Time and The Soul of Yosemite: Finding, Defending, and Saving the Valley's Sacred Wild Nature " 50 Keystone Fauna Species of Coastal British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest enriches our understanding of these critical species, empowering us to contribute to their conservation. A heartfelt thank you to Collin Varner for illuminating the path to environmental stewardship."―Paul Nicklen, Canadian photographer and filmmaker and co-founder of SeaLegacy "Whether you love the land, sea or air, you'll find creatures in this book to delight and to inspire your protection. Varner's focus on keystone species is very important as they play a significant role in keeping our ecosystems healthy. His images and information give you a beautiful glimpse into their lives."―Cheryl Alexander, award-winning filmmaker and author of Takaya: Lone Wolf, Good Morning Takaya , and Takaya's Journey A compact, user-friendly guide to ecologically significant animal species of the Northwest Coast Collin Varner is a horticulturalist/arboriculturalist. Over his forty-year career, he worked at the University of British Columbia's Botanical Garden, assumed responsibility for conserving twenty-five thousand trees across campus, and taught courses in native plant studies. Now retired, Varner is an avid photographer, world traveler, and best-selling author of The Flora and Fauna of the Pacific Northwest , Edible and Medicinal Flora of the West Coast , and Invasive Flora of the West Coast .