Martin Stevens is Associate Professor of Sensory and Evolutionary Ecology based in the Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter. His research focuses on sensory ecology and behaviour, especially animal coloration and vision. He studies a wide range of animals, including fish, reptiles, birds, insects, crabs, and primates. Martin's work has frequently covered topics related to deception, including mimicry by brood parasites and anti-predator coloration, including camouflage, eyespots, and mimicry. He undertook his PhD at the University of Bristol on animal camouflage and bird vision, before spending seven years as a research fellow in the Department of Zoology at the University of Cambridge. He moved to Exeter University in early 2013. Martin has published over 70 scientific manuscripts, in addition to two textbooks, including a recent one on sensory ecology and behaviour.

"A riveting look at mimicry, camouflage, startle displays, communication signals, and reproductive deceptions and their evolutionary impact. This work will be enjoyed by scientists and laypersons with a strong interest in the topic."--Library Journal

"I found Martin Stevens' Cheat and Deceits to be absolutely fascinating. The subjects he takes up, the remarkable examples he provides, and the clarity of his writing style--intelligent and learned yet at the same time enjoyable and even at times witty... I give Martin Stevens' Cheats and Deceits my most enthusiastic recommendation."-- The Well Read Naturalist

"Mr. Stevens makes for a clear, thoughtful, jargon-free guide... Delicious, duplicitous details make exploring the natural world seem all the more fascinating. If you want to understand just how thoroughly we live in a realm of intrigue and deception, this book is a fine place to begin."--The Wall Street Journal