Perfect Health--Revised and Updated

March 31, 1990
In 1985 the authors went to Madagascar to look for a rare lemur, the aye-aye. Adams ( The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy ) was on assignment for the London Observer, while zoologist Carwardine recorded their experiences for BBC Radio. Three years later, the pair undertook other journeys to report on endangered species. They sought out the Komodo dragon, the world's largest living lizard, in Indonesia; the kakapo, a large, flightless parrot, in New Zealand; the white rhinoceros in Zaire; blind river dolphins in China; rare bats and birds on Mauritius. Strategies to save these creatures include captive breeding programs (Mauritius), removal to offshore islands free of predators (New Zealand, Mauritius) and sequestration (China). Adams and Carwardine here relate the details of their serious quests in lively fashion. Whether stalking the kakapo over rough terrain or searching for condoms in China (to cover their underwater microphone), they keep their sense of humor. This is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy natural history, travel and adventure. Photos. 75,000 first printing; author tour.