Annotated Bibliography of Colorado Vertebrate Zoology, 1776-1995

This compilation catalogs the writings on the diverse vertebrate species within Colorado’s boundaries beginning with the Escalante Expedition, which skirted the western slope a century before Colorado’s statehood. Because of its geographical location-between East and West, North and Southwest, its altitudinal range of more than 11,000 feet, and its consequent variety of ecosystems from desert shrub to alpine tundra, Colorado ranks high among the fifty states for its variety of vertebrates. With such an abundance of these vertebrates, biologists and observant laypersons have had much to write about. This comprehensive bibliography is divided into major General Natural History, Fishes, Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds and Mammals. Each taxonomic group has a general section, followed by listings at taxon levels down to alphabetically-arranged species. General Natural History and taxon general sections are organized by categories such as Population Studies and National Park areas. Most entries are annotated; some appear in several sections; and an extensive index is included. The bibliography is especially complete with respect to periodical literature through 1995. Colorado Vertebrate Zoology cites resources for studying both well-researched vertebrates and those needing more study.