Poconos. An Illustrated Natural History Guide. 1988. figs. tabs. maps. XVI, 282 p. gr8vo. Paper bd.

The Poconos, a rich plateau nestled in northeastern Pennsylvania between the Delaware River and the Moosic Mountains, encompass a variety of alluring features - forests and lakes, abundant wildlife, ski slopes, waterfalls, and honeymoon resorts.

This book is the first guide to then atural history and ecology of this region, less than two hours' drive from New York City, whose scenery attracts some ten million visitors each year. The introductory chapters provide a general survey of the area, including its history and places to be explored and observed. Subsequent chapters focus on forest types, wildlife, and aquatic habitats.

For those who can only drive through the Poconos, the authors include a special section on plants and animals that can be seen along the roadside - as diverse and fascinating a group of creatures as those found in wilder places.

A chapter on human activity details the environmental effects of people from the days of the Indians to the present. The final chapter of the guide is devoted to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, a region with marked trails, maps, and visitor centers.