Dr. John Hunt, professor of biology, director of premedical studies and assistant dean of science for the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences at the University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM), has co-authored a new book, “Mammals of the Southwestern United States: Biology of Native and Some Extirpated, Extinct, and Introduced Species,” a comprehensive reference on mammal species found in the region.

Published by Lynx Nature Books, the volume documents 246 mammal species that currently or historically occurred in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Arizona. Written for both professional and general audiences, the book serves as an accessible resource for naturalists, sportsmen, students, educators and biologists.

The southwestern United States is home to some of North America’s most distinctive mammal species, including several that are rare or endangered. Each species’ account in the book includes full-color photographs, skull plates showing top, side and bottom views, color distribution maps of the species’ range in the Southwest and across North America and updated biological information.

Dr. Hunt has taught at UAM for 22 years and offers courses in mammalogy, comparative anatomy, environmental science and evolution, along with associated laboratories.

“This book would not have been possible without the financial and institutional support of the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences and UAM,” Dr. Hunt said.

The University of Arkansas at Monticello College of Technology–McGehee (UAM-CTM) and the UAM Adult Education Center will launch the UAM Digital Literacy Program in January as part of the “3 Southern States Connected Communities Program,” a regional effort led by Digitunity and AT&T to expand computer access and digital skills training.

The program launch will be held on January 21 at 11 a.m. on the UAM-CTM campus. Several special guests will be in attendance, including representatives from Digitunity, AT&T and Congressman Bruce Westerman’s office, local mayors, Chamber of Commerce directors and other dignitaries. The event is free and open to the public.

Through the program, students who complete WAGE I and WAGE II employability courses will receive a refurbished laptop, and students in the Business Office Technology and Health Information Technology programs at UAM-CTM may check out laptops for use during their studies and keep them after graduation. All participants will complete a digital literacy workshop on basic computer use, online safety and internet skills.