This volume serves as a comprehensive, portable reference guide designed to provide detailed biological and behavioral information on a wide array of zoo-housed animal species. The author, John A. Burton, utilizes his expertise in natural history to curate a systematic overview of various creatures, pairing visual documentation with descriptive text. The work functions as a practical manual for observers seeking to identify and understand the characteristics of animals within captive environments.

The text is regarded as a functional and accessible resource for enthusiasts and students interested in zoological study. Its compact design and focus on descriptive accuracy make it a reliable, albeit dated, reference for those navigating animal exhibits.