This volume serves as a comprehensive taxonomic and biological survey of the mammalian species native to the Australian continent. Authored by Ronald Strahan, a prominent zoologist, the work synthesizes extensive field data and photographic documentation to provide a definitive reference for researchers and naturalists. It utilizes the framework of the National Photographic Index of Australian Wildlife to categorize species through visual identification and geographic distribution analysis.

The work is regarded as a foundational reference text for Australian mammalogy due to its rigorous documentation and extensive visual catalog. Its systematic approach provides a reliable resource for both academic researchers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking accurate species data.