Beavers aren't just cute creatures that like to chew on trees and swim. They're also important ecosystem engineers! Readers of this engaging book learn just how vital these rodents are to the environment, from creating habitats for other animals to helping to control flooding. A high-interest topic encourages readers of many levels to learn about beavers. Accessible text reinforces key elementary science lessons while eye-catching photographs hold...

Animals are experts when it comes to playing hide-and-seek. Using camouflage, prey and predators alike employ this crucial tactic to defend themselves and ensure their survival. Enhanced with vibrant photographs and enthralling facts, this engaging, yet accessible text focuses on the four basic types of camouflage: coloration, disruptive coloration, disguise, and mimicry. Students will apply their knowledge of the different versions of camouflage...

Many people are afraid of bats, but like every other living thing they play in important role in nature. Readers will learn about cave dwelling gray bats, how they became endangered, and how government leaders and scientists have teamed up to save these furry, flying creatures.

The importance of biodiversity in the Great Lakes watershed cannot be overemphasized. The thousands of kinds of plants and animals that live in the lakes' habitats affect the health of the lakes, just as the lakes' health affects the wildlife. Readers learn about the many habitats of the Great Lakes region and conservation efforts that continue to restore and protect them. Full-color photographs accompany in-depth profiles of plants and animals, such...

Ferocious alligators, slithering snakes, and majestic sea turtles are all members of the diverse reptile family! Readers of this fascinating book will meet these and other incredible reptilian creatures. Amazing full-color photographs give readers an up-close look at the world of reptiles, from battling komodo dragons to a green basilisk sprinting across water! Readers will learn about important life science topics such as habitats, animal classification,...

Around the world, there are creatures that avoid being eaten because of their ability to mimic. If an insect, snake, or other creature looks like an animal that is poisonous or tastes bad, the predators will most likely leave it alone. Filled with informative 'fun fact' boxes, full-color photographs, and intriguing sidebars, this book will help readers discover the many ways that wild animals use mimicry to stay alive. Students will also learn about...

Rain forests cover approximately only 6 percent of the Earth's surface, but they are home to millions of plant and animal species. This lively biodiversity is in danger due to deforestation. Many rain forest animals are threatened as a result of this habitat loss. Readers are introduced to animals such as spider monkeys-several species of which are endangered. Chapters will explain what is being done to preserve the world's rain forests and what still...

Oceans cover nearly 75 percent of the Earth's surface. Pollution and overfishing are the two biggest threats faced by marine animals. Readers will be introduced to the ocean's endangered animals, including Bluefin tuna and leatherback sea turtles. Readers examine explanations as to why each animal is in trouble, and what is being done to save ocean animals.

Mammals come in all shapes and sizes – and some even come with wings, flippers, or beaks! This vibrant book is full of bats, dolphins, platypuses, and many other strange and beautiful mammals. Readers will pour over gorgeous photographs as they learn about important life science topics like animal classification, habitats, and diets. Fact boxes keep readers engaged with cool questions and fun tidbits of knowledge, and a handy quiz lets them see...

In August of 2016 Israeli police officers arrested a Palestinian donkey in the Jordan Valley for not carrying the correct paperwork. It's an image as sad (and strangely common) as it is symbolic: no creature great or small is free from the absurdities of Israel's occupation of Palestine. Companions in Conflict is a surprising investigation into how deeply intertwined the fates of the region's human and animal populations really are. In it, we encounter...