Common Lichens of the Western United States (Easily Identify 66 Widespread Types)

Get this tabbed booklet to the 66 most common lichens of the western United States—and learn to identify them with confidence.

Lichens are all around us, clinging to city trees, carpeting forest floors, and painting rocks with brilliant hues. Yet most people walk right past these fascinating organisms without realizing what they’re seeing. Whether you’re a backyard naturalist, a seasoned hiker, or someone who’s curious about the natural world, this easy-to-use guide helps you recognize and appreciate lichens in your everyday environment.

Each lichen is organized by the surface it grows on—trees, soil, or rocks—and then by growth form: leafy, bushy, or crusty. Narrow your choices by what you see and where you see it and view just a few lichens at a time. The professional photographs showcase 66 species (which account for 75% of all lichen sightings in the western United States) while straightforward descriptions make field identification approachable and fun for beginners and experts alike. Written by naturalist Tanner Barnharst, this pocket-sized guide features species found in the western half of the United States: from western North Dakota down to western Texas and across to the Pacific Ocean (including Alaska). Improve your identification skills and learn about the hidden world of lichens with this lightweight quick guide.

Book Features

• Pocket-sized format—easier than laminated foldouts
• Professional photos showing key traits and textures
• Easy-to-use information for even casual observers
• Identifications based on over 200,000 verified field observations