Derek Ratcliffe made his career in the Nature Conservancy, becoming Chief Scientist in 1973, a post he held until his retirement in 1989. He was widely recognised as one of the leading naturalists and conservationists in the UK, and was an active member of the New Naturalist editorial board. He died suddenly on May 23rd, 2005.

/ 'A testament to the profound understanding that the author had of this corner of the world.' BBC Wildlife / '!a magical and detailed guide to the natural history of this 'unexpected Eden' in Scotland.' Country Homes & Interiors / 'This excellent addition to the New Naturalist series seems certain to become the definitive reference for those with a love of Southern Scotland and its natural history.' Scottish Bird News / 'One of Britain's greatest field naturalists describes in detail that broad "chest" of upland country that lies just south of Scotland's slender neck between Edinburgh and Glasgow ! the fluency of his style and his massive expertise in upland ecology draw out its huge beauty, wildlife riches and the perennial impact of humans upon its diverse landscapes' Mark Cocker, The Guardian