Killer Cats

Jaguars, the largest big cats in the Western Hemisphere, pad quietly around thick rainforests looking for their next meal. Sometimes they rest in tall trees, watching and waiting for prey to pass by. When an animal comes within reach, these wild cats can kill them with a single bite. Readers will learn many reasons why jaguars are successful hunters. Mesmerizing photographs of these beautiful creatures in their habitats engage readers of all levels. Fun-fact boxes and a graphic organizer offer more information and aid in comprehension.

They may look like large house cats, but bobcats are really wild, carnivorous animals. There are approximately 1 million bobcats that live throughout North America, but they usually stay a good distance from humans. Readers get a chance to see these expert hunters in action, through eye-catching photographs taken in their native habitats. Engaging text supports elementary science curriculum. A graphic organizer is included to reinforce key concepts.

Cheetahs, with their spotted coats, are among the most recognizable wild cats in the world. They look regal on the African plains as they watch for prey, ready to race into action at any moment. Readers will learn why the cheetah's body is uniquely capable of achieving the status of "fastest animal on land." A worthy addition to any elementary science library, this volume also brings to light the many problems facing these now-endangered animals in their native habitats.

Tigers are the largest cats in the world, which means they need to eat a lot! These deadly nocturnal hunters can take down prey as large as young elephants. However, these killer cats are struggling to survive in the few parts of Asia in which they live. This book delves into the lives of tigers in the wild. Readers will feel as if they are peeking at the big beasts in their native habitats as they look at the beautiful photographs. Fun information about key science concepts is balanced with thoughtful ideas about the necessity of animal conservation efforts.

Lions have long held the title of the "king of beasts". Readers will decide for themselves if these killer cats truly deserve the label after being presented with numerous facts and engaging information. In the action-packed photographs, lions look the part of mighty animals. They roam their habitats without fear, letting out impressive roars to caution their enemies and to celebrate a successful hunt. Readers will also examine the fascinating social lives of lions in their pride.

Catamounts, cougars, and mountain lions are all the same animal. However, scientists most often refer to these wild cats as pumas. No matter what they're called, they're killer cats. Like other big cats, pumas silently stalk their prey, waiting for the best moment to take them by surprise. But pumas have behaviors unique among cats, such as their ability to eat prickly porcupines. Animal lovers and budding zoologists will love both the bright photographs and the fun facts about pumas presented in this book.