Wildlife Wonders

From ostriches to pigeons, there are many kinds of birds on Earth. How did they evolve? How have they changed to fit their environment? This book answers these questions and more as it brings readers face to face with birds of all sizes, shapes, and abilities. Readers will learn about early birds, such as the Archaeopteryx, and what we've learned from their fossils. They'll also learn about the classifications for birds that are alive today, such as perching birds, raptors, and flightless birds. Colorful pictures, diagrams, and sidebars take readers on an adventure to meet these amazing feathered friends. Booklist -- "The photos in Why Do Birds Have Feathers? are particularly helpful in illustrating the author's points about flight and beak shape".

Is that creepy critter an insect? How do these tiny creatures survive? This volume brings readers up close and personal with many different insect species, including dung beetles, moths, and praying mantises. They'll learn how to classify insects into different groups, such as true flies and true bugs. Readers will love learning about amazing senses and skills insects have developed over time, from a fly's many mini-eyes to an orchid mantis' disguise. Color photographs and diagrams guide readers through the insect world and illustrate important life science concepts, such as metamorphosis and evolution. Diagrams and sidebars add even more fun facts to this exciting journey through a bug's life.

What is a fish? How can you classify fish? Readers will find the answers to these questions and more in this volume. Readers will learn the differences between flatfish, catfish, eels, and more, as they get an up-close look at several fish species. They will learn the ways fish have adapted over millions of years to fit into their environment, including developing a swim bladder and fins. Diagrams and sidebars add additional information to fact-filled text. Color photographs give readers a glimpse into the underwater world to truly understand the many fish in the sea.

What is a mammal? What did the first mammals look like? How do mammals survive in their environments? This book is sure to answer many readers' questions about the evolution of mammals and how they can be classified. Readers will learn important life science concepts from life cycles to migration. The book discusses mammal adaptations, such as polar bears keeping warm and fennec foxes keeping cool. Color photographs supplement fascinating text to hook readers' attention. Diagrams and sidebars are sure to add to the learning experience. From huge elephants to tiny bumblebee bats, this book gives a great overview of the magnificent world of mammals. Booklist -- "Why Do Mammals Have Fur? successfully covers a broad range of information".

What is a plant? How does it eat? Why does it grow? Readers will answer these questions and more as they discover how to classify plants, identify their parts, and grasp the process of photosynthesis in this engaging text. Helpful diagrams are included to augment descriptions, and bright photographs make information relatable to young readers. Readers will explore plant habitats, observe unique adaptations, and discern how artificial selection and genetic engineering have changed the plants of our world. Stimulating sidebars will inspire budding scientists to pursue even more plant knowledge. Booklist -- "The family classification chart in Why Do Plants Have Flowers? offers surprising new facts about familiar trees, flowers, and other plants".

Were dinosaurs reptiles? How have reptiles evolved over millions of years? This book discusses these questions and more as it invites readers on an adventure into the ancient reptile world. Dinosaur lovers will enjoy learning about prehistoric reptiles, such as the winged reptile Quetzalcoatlus. Readers will learn about the different ways to classify today's reptiles, as well as how certain species have adapted to their environments. They'll learn the differences between vipers, turtles, crocodiles, and more, while exploring reptiles' super senses and skills, from heat-sensing organs to camouflage. Sidebars and diagrams join exciting text to make this a one-of-a-kind reptile ride. Booklist -- "The introduction to Why Do Reptiles Have Scales? introduces giant, prehistoric reptiles that immediately capture the reader's attention".