Identification of Snakes of the Gold Coast

This 1950 field guide by Frank Leeson offers an authoritative and practical approach to identifying the diverse snake species of the Gold Coast (modern-day Ghana). Commissioned by the Crown Agents for the Colonies, Identification of Snakes of the Gold Coast was designed for use by colonial officers, medical personnel, and naturalists working in West Africa.

The guide features clear descriptions of both venomous and non-venomous species, with an emphasis on identification in the field. Leeson—an expert in tropical medicine—provides concise diagnostic features, notes on behavior, and essential information on venom effects and treatment, making the book both scientifically valuable and accessible.

A rare and historically significant publication, this volume reflects mid-20th-century efforts to document African fauna and improve public health through greater understanding of local wildlife. An important resource for collectors of herpetological literature, colonial-era studies, or West African natural history.