Sandra Markle's Science Discoveries

Did you know that rats can be heroes? In the southern African nation of Mozambique, these amazing rats (which are the size of a small house cat) have helped clear landmines. And that's just one of the incredible stories in this book. Award-winning author Sandra Markle has collected wonderful true stories about animals that have rescued humans-and other animals. With fabulous photographs of the featured animals, this book is sure to appeal to animal lovers everywhere!

Where do inventors find inspiration? Sometimes they look to animals-which is known as bioinspiration! Author Sandra Markle presents twelve animal adaptations and the amazing technological advancements they've inspired. Readers get a fun peek at the creative process that led to the creation of inventions that help people stay safe, live more comfortably, and go places and do things that weren't previously possible. From dolphins and bats inspiring sonar and lidar to sharks and pangolins inspiring different types of armor, explore the marvelous world of nature-based inventions.

Audisee® eBooks with Audio combine professional narration and sentence highlighting to engage reluctant readers! Little brown bats do us a big favor. They eat huge numbers of insects! That helps limit the spread of diseases and the damage that insects do to farm crops. But in recent years, large populations of little brown bats have been dying off each winter. Is a virus killing them? Could climate change or pesticides be the cause? Or is it something else? Follow a team of dedicated scientists working to save the little brown bats in this real-life science mystery. "Scientists have discovered that something is killing off the little brown bats that normally hibernate in the northeastern states during the cold winter months. Students who are fascinated by bats will definitely be drawn to this high-interest book. An attractive format will ensure high readership. Digital photographs showing bats with the mysterious white fuzz on their noses, as well as photographs of the bats hibernating and dying from this mysterious disease provide excellent visual information. How scientists are attempting to curb this deadly fungus from spreading throughout the bat population is presented. The digital images with highlighted captions and extensive information regarding the bat populations throughout the United States make this a must-have for any school library. In addition to the author's note, the book is brimming with useful information that science teachers will be able to utilize. Bibliography. Glossary. Websites. [Editor's Note: Available in e-book format.] Highly Recommended."―starred, Library Media Connection "This informative title sheds light on a mystery of nature: how little brown bats, nature's insect eaters, are mysteriously dying in their caves during hibernation. Each chapter takes readers into the problems that plague this endangered member of our ecosystem, describing how teams of scientists examined how 'white-nose syndrome,' caused by a fungus called Pd, is infecting the brown bat population. Scientists have searched different caves and mines in the eastern United States and discovered that Pd affects bats by damaging their wings. Since this discovery, they have been exploring ways to change the conditions so that these small mammals can survive hibernation. The text is written in a clear tone, providing information on the plight of the bats in an accessible style. The book integrates textual and visual information well, and strong back matter allows students to do additional research. An excellent work that will enlighten readers about a growing problem in the natural world." -starred, School Library Journal "As this latest title in Markle's A Scientific Mystery series reveals, little brown bats are in peril in North America. In 2007, researchers checked a cave in upstate New York for hibernating bats and discovered that few were hibernating, many were dead, and some had fuzzy white noses. Markle follows the scientists as they consider and discard theories about what was causing the white fuzz (Pesticides? A virus?) and whether it was killing the bats. In 2008, the culprit was identified as a fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, or Pd, which thrives in cool environments. The clearly written text describes these common bats and communicates the urgency as well as the methods of scientists' mission to save them. Most of the color photos are quite good, and a few are truly excellent in their clarity, composition, and usefulness. A current map shows the gradual spread of Pd from New England into other parts of the U.S. and Canada. An informative book on a timely topic." -Booklist "Since 2007, with the first reports of hibernating bats dying in large numbers, scientists have worked from various angles to find the cause and cure, racing against the possibility of extinction. As she did for golden frogs and honeybees (The Case of the Vanishing…, 2011, 2013), veteran science educator Markle presen

Golden lion tamarins were once common in Brazilian forests. But years of deforestation caused their numbers to shrink. See how scientists and concerned citizens came together to rescue these remarkable monkeys from near extinction.

Red wolves had been hunted until only fourteen survived in the wild. So scientists hatched a daring plan—capture all of the wild red wolves and breed them in captivity. Discover the story of their recovery.

Top-selling science author Sandra Markle presents the story of whale sharks-the largest fish on the planet. Facing threats from commercial fishing as well as climate change, they were categorized as endangered in 2016. Find out how scientists are working to study and protect these gentle giants of the ocean.

Readers will learn how scientists use camera-trap technology to study woolly monkeys in the Manu Biosphere Reserve. These camera traps helped scientists discover information about the woolly monkeys' diet, behavior, and habitat. Known as the rainforest's gardeners, their activities and behaviors are essential to the survival of the trees and animals in the rainforest. Scientists must learn more to save this keystone species and protect the rainforests.

Southern white rhinos are in trouble. For years, a rumor has been spreading that their horns can be used to cure cancer, and poachers have been targeting these gentle creatures. Sandra Markle takes readers behind the scenes to see how civilians, volunteer organizations, and African governments are working together to protect rhinos.

Join a real-life adventure-a scientific expedition to a remote area of the Honduran rainforest, suspected to be the ruins of the Lost City of the Monkey God. The team of scientists had only ten days to hike into the dense jungle, likely unvisited by humans in the past 500 years, and locate the archaeological site. In addition to searching for and finding incredible artifacts, scientists also uncovered an amazing, diverse ecosystem flourishing due to the lack of human influences. They recorded hundreds of different kinds of animals, including some new species as well as animals listed as endangered or previously believed to be extinct. Award-winning author Sandra Markle incorporates interviews and information from key scientists who took part in this ten-day expedition, showing how their discoveries led to new protections for this incredible place. "An adventurous biology and archaeology book filled with beautiful images and impeccable design."-School Library Journal "In this well-written text, readers will step into an exciting field of discovery, following in the footsteps of pioneering scientists and archeologists who brought an ancient city to life in the twenty-first century."-Children's Literature "Markle provides clear explanations of the lidar mapping process, the camera traps, and the systematic exploration of the conservation team as well as a smoothly flowing story that carries readers along on these adventures. . . . An inviting introduction to an amazing place."-Kirkus Reviews

Acclaimed science author Sandra Markle offers a fascinating look at Gobi bears- the rarest bears on the planet. These adorable animals face threats ranging from illegal gold miners to climate change. Find out more about these bears, which are considered a national treasure in Mongolia, and learn what scientists are doing to help this critically endangered species.

Audisee® eBooks with Audio combine professional narration and sentence highlighting to engage reluctant readers! In the dark, Kristofer Helgen and a group of scientists peered up into the treetops of the Ecuadorian cloud forest. Staring back at them was a furry, four-legged creature. Could it be the mysterious, wild olinguito? Helgen had been studying the olingo, a relative of raccoons, for years. As he examined their pelts and skulls in museums, he noticed differences in a few. Through scientific investigating, he realized the different examples weren't olingos at all-he had discovered a completely new species. Next, he just had to find it-if it still existed. Follow Helgen's real-life science adventure through museums, laboratories, and the cloud forest as he makes an exciting modern discovery. "'Nothing new under the sun,' goes the old saying, but apparently there is. Consider the first 'new' carnivore spotted in the Americas in 35 years-the olinguito (Bassaricyon neblina), a small furry member of the raccoon family, hiding in plain sight (though nocturnal in nature) in the Ecuadorian rain forest. Markle, impressed by the announcement of the new species in 2013, set off on her own expedition of research, contacting Kristofer Helgen and assistants Roland Kays and Miguel Pinto to document the discovery. Her lucid, brief text records the 10-plus years from Helgen's first observation of a discrepancy in a preserved specimen at the Chicago Field Museum to the big reveal at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC, in 2013. With color photos, maps, a raccoon 'family album,' and some tips on scientific investigation, this is a fascinating glimpse into the long process in the lab and in the field to document the search for actual proof of a new species. VERDICT: This quick but wondrous look at the scientific search for the olinguito is an excellent addition to science collections."-starred, School Library Journal "A species of mammal newly identified through museum research is found in the wild in Ecuador. Comparing olingo pelts and skulls at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, Kristofer Helgen found a set that didn't match. Continuing his museum investigations around the world, he found similar specimens in four other collections. DNA testing showed that it was, indeed, a different species, which he named olinguito, 'little olingo.' One such animal had lived and died in captivity in the 1970s, but did they still exist in the wild? In this latest title, science educator Markle provides a stellar description of a long-term scientific investigation involving research in museums, in laboratories, and in the field. Her clear, well-organized text introduces the scientific question, describes the research, and introduces the newest member of the raccoon family. A two-page spread describes other family members, and there are numerous well-captioned photographs of this appealing new addition as well as American (mostly white) and Ecuadorian scientists at work. She makes clear that these animals were known to local people all along; it was scientists who were surprised. Attractive design and thoughtful backmatter complete the package, a nice complement to Lulu Delacre's description of the olinguito's native cloud forest, ¡Olinguito, de la A a la Z!/Olinguito, from A to Z! A compelling account of the solution of a scientific mystery."-starred, Kirkus Reviews "At the opening of the twenty-first century, scientists were uncertain whether olingos, racoon-like forest dwellers, comprised one or more than one species. As researcher Kristofer Helgen investigated this issue, he stumbled upon pelts and skulls stored in various natural history museums that pointed to a related but separate problem: perhaps some of the remains labeled as olingos were actually another mammal entirely. Markle focuses on the decade where Helgen began studying the animals in museum storage, determined t

Audisee® eBooks with Audio combine professional narration and sentence highlighting to engage reluctant readers! In 2007 only thirty Amur leopards remained in the wild. Scientists knew they needed to do more to help these big cats. However, details of the leopards' wild lives in their high-altitude forest home were still a mystery. With the help of new technology and the cooperation of scientists and governments around the world, people have learned more than ever before about these rare cats. An innovative plan is under way to give Amur leopards a more secure future. Can these cats rebound from the brink before it's too late? "Markle introduces the critically endangered Amur leopard, detailing current strategies to augment its numbers using temporarily relocated, zooborn cats. From a 1950s population of around 2,400, the leopard dwindled to about 30 by 2007, despite increasing conservation efforts by such international groups as the Amur Leopard and Tiger Alliance. Markle presents the Amur leopard's native habitat, eastern Russia's taiga, or boreal forest. She shows the effects of modern logging, mining, farming, and hunting on a rugged region that previously favored the leopard's large, solitary home ranges and ample access to prey. In 2010, an international coalition began planning for a second, backup population of Amur leopards, recognizing that the remaining cats could be wiped out by disease or disaster. Russia protected the leopards' last natural habitat in 2012, later designating separate taiga land for the spare population. Markle's crisp prose conveys the extensive scientific and technological steps needed to ensure that zooborn adult leopards could mate in large enclosures, with mothers teaching their young to hunt. After two years, cubs would enter their wild habitat, with mothers returned to their zoos. Clear, often riveting stock photos show adult cats and cubs in natural habitats as well as zoos, and maps are effectively utilized. Markle invites readers to track the evolving progress of the plan to help the Amur leopard survive. Excellent writing and documentation distinguish Markle's latest."-starred, Kirkus Reviews "Markle continues to fill a demand for animal-centered books that satisfy both recreational readers and science-report writers. Here she brings readers in on the ground floor of an initiative to augment an endangered population of leopards in the Amur region of far eastern Russia. Though threatened by poaching and by shrinking habitat due to farming and deforestation, the Amur leopards were already being brought back from the brink through the efforts of scientists and through public education programs. After more than a decade of work, however, by an international Amur Leopard and Tiger Alliance (ALTA), it became clear that a 'spare' population of leopards should be bred and readied for release into the wild in the Lazovsky Zapovednik reserve in Russia, with the first release scheduled for 2020. The plight of the leopards and the multiple considerations that must be juggled to assure their survival are clearly presented, but perhaps the best feature of Markle's account is the invitation for enthusiasts to follow the ALTA program's implementation (website included in author's note.) Moreover, readers who may have learned about the parallel fate of the Amur tigers will be able to see how the two endangered species' fates are somewhat intertwined. Simpler in structure than the Scientists in the Field series, this title offers the readability, depth, and brevity appropriate for a middle-grades audience. A timeline, glossary, interview notes, index, and list of additional resources are included."-The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "Similar in approach to Markle's The Great Monkey Rescue (2015), this handsome volume looks at efforts to rescue the Amur leopard. Called 'the rarest big cats on Earth,' these leopards live in the Asian taiga, west of Vladivostok. Their number

Audisee® eBooks with Audio combine professional narration and sentence highlighting for an engaging read aloud experience! After oil was discovered in Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda, which was home to nearly all the country's Nubian giraffes, conservationists knew they had to do something. So in 2015, they hatched a plan to move some of these animals, which are critically endangered, across a river to safer territory. But there was no bridge and giraffes can't swim. The solution involved transporting the world's tallest land animal by truck and by barge. Follow along as Sandra Markle tells the story of this unusual-and successful-rescue effort! "A welcome example of human efforts to salvage what's left of the natural world."-Kirkus Reviews

"A fascinating story of the human efforts to save red wolves."-Booklist "Markle efficiently weaves information about animals and their importance to their ecosystems into her clear description of humans rescuers and the effects of their actions. . . A convincing introduction to human efforts to save animal species." -Kirkus Reviews

"Although complex concepts are introduced, Markle presents the necessary background details readers need to follow along. Information is well organized with photographs and illustrations adding visual interest . . . A great resource for research projects and nature enthusiasts, recommended for middle grade science collections. Finally, some good news about the future of honey bees!"-School Library Journal

Late in 2013, snowy owls started showing up in places no one expected to find them-including Florida. What had caused so many of these majestic birds to leave their Arctic home and fly to southern Canada and the United States? Scientists quickly began working to find out. Author Sandra Markle brings together firsthand reports from the scientists involved along with stunning photographs of the owls to explain this rare event, known as an irruption. Follow along as scientists figure out why snowy owls took part in this unusual migration and discover what they learned from the unexpected opportunity to study them up close. "In 2013, snowy owls made an unusual trip south, but that detour is only part of the story acclaimed science writer Markle shares in her latest book. Markle starts with background information, revealing why so many snowy owls traveled south, and then explains how scientists quickly capitalized on the circumstances to tag the birds and follow their migration routes. The story gains momentum as Markle details the importance of the food chain and provides insight from scientists working with the owls. These interviews and accompanying photographs set the book apart and bring the story to life. The writing is easy to understand and never boring. The main narrative is laid out in full-color spreads, accompanied by photographs (some stock, some provided by the scientists) and maps. Full-page sidebars are differentiated from the main text by changes in backgrounds and typefaces. The distinctions are subtle but make the reading experience flow that much more easily. Similarly, definitions are addressed naturally within the text, providing no interruptions. Markle's author's note ends the tale and is also a good read. She explains how she tracked down sources and why it was important to talk to the scientists. It's a terrific note that encourages both budding naturalists and science writers of all ages. VERDICT An excellent purchase for STEM collections."-starred,School Library Journal "In the winter of 2013-2014, when snowy owls from the Arctic began appearing far south of their usual winter homes, scientists took advantage of a rare research opportunity. An unusually large irruption of snowy owls, seen in huge numbers in eastern Canada, New England, and the mid-Atlantic coast and as far south as Florida, spurred observers to develop new techniques to track and learn more about this Arctic species. One likely hypothesis for their sudden migration into unlikely areas is a population explosion caused by the unusually high lemming numbers the previous summer, which provided more food for hatchlings. Another points to strong southeasterly winds blowing them off course. Using leg bands and small GPS transmitters, scientists followed the movements of specific birds, discovering new facts about a bird not previously well-studied. Markle introduces the birds, the lemmings, and the science in lively, clear prose organized into chapters profusely illustrated with well-captioned photographs. With long experience in explaining the natural world to young readers, she deftly chooses information that will be of particular interest and provides the necessary background. Separate sections explain lemming population booms, differences between male and female owls, tundra, and owl feeding habits. A map shows the travels of several birds, including a 'star reporter' named Baltimore. Appealing design adds further value to this dramatic demonstration of science in progress."-starred, Kirkus Reviews The winter of 2013-2014 brought an unprecedented number of snowy owls to the United States. Normally these birds stay all year in the Arctic. Scientists took advantage of the flocks by banding many and attaching transmitters to others in order to study the flight patterns – research that they have not been able to conducted previously. Because the banding happened so recently, scientists are just beginning to use the d

Have you ever wondered what happens to dinosaur fossils after paleontologists dig them up? They don't only go on display in museums. Scientists also investigate those fossilized remains to learn more about how dinosaurs' bodies functioned and how they lived. And thanks to new and improved technologies-from pressure sensors to computer models, lidar scanning to laser-simulated fluorescence-they're making exciting new discoveries about these fascinating creatures. Scientists' questions include: What did dinosaurs look like? How did they move and hunt? Did they protect and care for their young? Follow along with author Sandra Markle to investigate T. rex's bite force and its walking speed, peek inside a fossilized Massospondylus egg, check out how the enormous Rhoetosaurus was able to walk on its toes without crushing its bones, and much more!

After oil was discovered in Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda, which was home to nearly all the country's Nubian giraffes, conservationists knew they had to do something. So in 2015, they hatched a plan to move some of these animals, which are critically endangered, across a river to safer territory. But there was no bridge and giraffes can't swim. The solution involved transporting the world's tallest land animal by truck and by barge. Follow along as Sandra Markle tells the story of this unusual-and successful-rescue effort! "A welcome example of human efforts to salvage what's left of the natural world."-Kirkus Reviews

Honeybees are among the world's most important insects. They help pollinate many of the crops we depend on for food. Without them, the global food supply would be in great danger. In 1998, beekeepers in Europe made a shocking discovery—almost all of the honeybees had disappeared from their hives. Several years later, beekeepers in the United States found that many of their honeybees had vanished too. Scientists called this disappearance colony collapse disorder (CCD), and at first, no one knew why it was happening. It was time to call the bee doctors! Join author Sandra Markle as she explores what apiologists—scientists who study bees—have learned about CCD and what they are doing to prevent it from spreading further.

With their long tusks, narwhals are unique whales that live in the Arctic Ocean. But as climate change causes global temperatures to rise, less and less sea ice is covering the Arctic Ocean each year. Narwhals are left vulnerable without the ice, which historically provided them with safe areas to roam out of reach of their natural predators, killer whales. And humans are taking advantage of the clearer water, searching and drilling for oil and hauling cargo. So as Arctic sea ice shrinks, a new challenge emerges: noise pollution from human activity. The thrum of engines and other man-made sounds threaten narwhals ability to locate food, communicate with other narwhals, and use echolocation to navigate while migrating. How can people reduce noise pollution in the Arctic Ocean to help them? Follow along as scientists study the effects of noise pollution on narwhals and work to ensure they have a hope-filled future.

"Another cogently explained example of environmental work from a master nonfiction writer."-Kirkus Reviews