Life Without Animals

What would the world be like without elephants? In recent years, the dwindling population of this endangered species has made it necessary to confront this question. Habitat destruction and poaching have jeopardized the survival of this keystone species, leading to widespread consequences. In this informative text, readers learn about the important role that elephants play in their ecosystem, the dangers they face, and what can be done to protect them. Vibrant photographs enrich the curricular content, which engages readers in an age-appropriate dialogue about the interdependence of Earth's species.

Sea otters are a keystone species in their environment. If they were to disappear, the ripple effect on the plants and animals in the ecosystem would be profound. Kelp forests absorb carbon dioxide. Sea urchins feed on kelp and can deplete these forests if they are not kept in check. Sea otters prey on sea urchins, helping to maintain healthy kelp forests and thus, a healthy ecosystem. This dynamic text engages readers in an educational dialogue, examining the role of sea otters, the threats they face, and possible solutions to protect this fundamental species.

Due to common misconceptions about their nature, mountain lions have been targeted both by farmers who consider them a threat to their livestock, and sportsmen who hunt them as a trophy kill. In truth, this majestic cat is necessary to the survival of its entire ecosystem. Complete with full-color photographs that make the information pop, this enlightening text explores key curricular science concepts including interdependence, predator-prey relationships, and the importance of conservation.

Tigers are the largest wild cats in the world. Though they are apex predators, these powerful creatures are vanishing from Earth. Shrinking habitats and poaching have brought tigers to the brink of extinction, forcing us to consider: What would the world be like without tigers? Readers will be fascinated by this edifying text, which takes a hard look at what would happen if tigers were to disappear. With eye-catching photographs, accessible language, and curricular content, this book is a must-read for bourgeoning environmentalists and anyone who cares about animals.

From the fiercest predator to the lowliest plant, every member of an ecosystem is immeasurably important to the survival of their environment. Although they're not regarded as a keystone species, sea urchins play a pivotal role in maintaining healthy marine environments. Without sea urchins to consume algae, entire coral reef ecosystems could collapse. This educational text invites readers to imagine a world without sea urchins, delving into curricular science concepts, such as interdependence of species, with accessible language and real-world examples.

Scapegoats for livestock injuries and crop damage, prairie dogs have been threatened by hunting and habitat loss. These seemingly commonplace creatures are a keystone species, necessary to the survival of many other animals and the entire prairie ecosystem. In this educational text, readers learn about the value of the prairie dog, the challenges it faces, and why its conservation is so important. Colorful photographs bring to life the fascinating information on every page, holding the readers' attention and capturing their imagination.

Polar bears are often a favorite animal to see at the zoo. In nature, they're one of the most important species in the Arctic. Readers of this engaging book will learn about these amazing animals and what makes them such a crucial part of their ecosystem. Colorful photographs grab readers' attention, while informative and accessible text provides additional information and reinforces key topics from the elementary science curriculum. This high-interest topic will attract budding zoologists and reluctant readers alike.

To some people, bees might seem like pests, especially when they're using their stingers or buzzing around a picnic. However, they're incredibly important parts of nature. Without bees, much of the food supply for humans and animals could dwindle. With the help of this informative volume, young readers learn all about the importance of these interesting insects. Age-appropriate text helps reinforce key concepts from the elementary-science curriculum, such as what pollination is and how it works. Readers also learn about the dangers bees face and how they can help.

Gray wolves are a keystone species. Without them, many other animals and plants would be in danger of dying out. Readers of this fascinating book will learn exactly why these fierce hunters are such an important part of ecosystems. Eye-catching photographs bring readers face-to-face with these great predators and hold the attention of even the most reluctant readers. Meanwhile, informative and engaging text helps reinforce essential lessons from the elementary science curriculum. Young wolf enthusiasts will appreciate this captivating volume as much as they appreciate the creatures it is about.

Many young readers may not even realize corals are animals. However, these amazing ocean dwellers are some of the most important animals in the sea! With this engaging volume, readers will learn all about these essential organisms and some of the reasons our planet needs them. Colorful photographs showcase the natural beauty of these colorful creatures, while accessible text helps to reinforce key lessons from the elementary science curriculum. Informative content encourages young oceanographers and animal lovers to learn more about coral and help keep them safe.

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 the attention of even reluctant readers. Young animal enthusiasts are sure to love this informative volume.

Most people don't come across oysters in nature very often, so they may not seem like very important animals. However, these amazing mollusks create key habitats for other animals, protective barriers for land, and even jobs for people! And those are just some of the ways the world benefits from oysters. Colorful photographs and engaging text make this informative volume a captivating guide for animal enthusiasts and reluctant readers alike. High-interest content reinforces crucial lessons from elementary science curricula and inspires readers to learn more about marine life.