Seeing Nature is a guide to natural wonders found in 34 parks and preserves within Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley. Readers are introduced to a variety of habitats, which host an incredible diversity of animals, plants, and fungi. Beautifully illustrated with more than 1,500 captioned color photographs, this informative guide describes over 1,000 species, from grassland birds to carnivorous plants. Suggested routes and maps for each walk guide the way at each site. More in-depth looks at many special features within these places are offered through photographic spreads that illustrate: 

• the ancient trees of Carpenter’s Woods 
• the charismatic wading and marsh birds of John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge
• the life of the vernal pools and wetlands of Five Mile Woods
• the dragonflies and damselflies of Piney Hollow Preservation Area
• the new life after a fire at Tom’s Pond in Wharton State Forest
• the riot of colorful mushrooms of Franklin Parker Preserve
• the forest wildflowers of Manderfield Preserve
• and much, much more.

New and seasoned naturalists alike will be inspired to explore and get involved in conserving the special places this region has to offer. Information about the ecology and conservation history of each park and preserve is also included.