About the Author

Leonard Cronin is one of Australia's foremost natural history authors. Trained as a biologist, he is a prolific writer of books and articles about the Australian flora, fauna and environment, bringing his own fascination with the natural world to the general reader. His books include the bestselling Cronin's Key Guide series of field guides, Australian Flora and A Journey Through Ancient Kingdoms and Natural Wonders.

Marion Westmacott worked in architectural, engineering and scientific drafting, then spent 16 years on cattle stations observing and illustrating the Australian landscape, often from a helicopter. When illustrating the Key Guide series, she did extensive research, visiting forests, zoos, herbaria, museums and universities. Marion has also illustrated posters, designed merchandise, run workshops, exhibited her artwork extensively and been published in scientific journals, gardening magazines and Australian Geographic.