Prairie Dogs

by Marybeth Lorbiecki

Overview

Animals facing threats from human encroachment are featured in these offerings from the Our Wild World series. Prairie Dogs looks at critters considered a keystone species by scientists, linked to the survival of about 40 other species. Horse-lovers will gravitate to the doe-eyed bays on the cover of Wild Horses, which introduces readers to the scattered herds of mustangs still roaming the U.S. Both books spend a great deal of time on these animals' fascinating social systems, from the bands of mares led by a single stallion to prairie dog towns subdivided into coteries. The prose is consistently clear and lively, although Lorbiecki's breathless marveling at prairie dogs' language of chirks, yips, and other vocalizations may lead children to anthropomorphize more than is warranted.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781559718844
Publisher:	Cooper Square Publishing Llc
Publication date:	03/01/2004
Series:	Our Wild World
Pages:	48
Product dimensions:	8.46(w) x 8.43(h) x 0.24(d)
Age Range:	7 - 10 Years

Introduction

Why are prairie dogs known as champion diggers? What is a volcano mound? Can prairie dogs really talk to each other? Why do prairie dogs hug and kiss each other? Author Marybeth Lorbiecki reveals the answers to these questions and many more. You will find out what Wild Horses are really like and how they live in Our Wild World.

Editorial Reviews

Gr 3-6-Lorbiecki briefly examines various species but focuses primarily on black-tailed prairie dogs, while Vogel concentrates on mustangs living in the American West. Basic information is provided, including where the animals live, what they look like, and how they raise their young. Additional details give readers a well-rounded view of each creature's world. For example, Prairie Dogs offers a thorough discussion of the rodents' complex communication system of chirps and whistles, and Wild Horses talks about the variety of colors and patterns that can be found on mustangs' coats. "Funfact" sections add additional tidbits. Clear, full-color photos provide visual appeal. Some drawings (mainly diagrams) are included. The texts are clearly written and include pronunciation guides. There is definitely good report material in these volumes, but it's not easily accessible since there are no chapter headings or subtitles. However, the indexes are helpful in tracking down specific facts.-Arwen Marshall, Minneapolis Public Library Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

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