For the person on your Christmas list who is fascinated by the natural world, here are a few choices for their reading interests.
THE SMARTEST ANIMALS ON THE PLANET
BY DR. SALLY BOYSEN
Firefly Books, 192 pages, $24.95
We know animals are intelligent, but just like people there are some that are smarter than others. Sally Boysen examines a broad spectrum of animal species to look for a variety of indicators of intelligence, such as the ability to use tools, communication, imitation and learning, numerical abilities, and self-recognition. Within these categories Boysen provides a fascinating look at the animal world, showing us amazing skills like the dance language of honeybees, how crows make tools, the expressive vocalizations of baboons and much more.
HOW TO RAISE MONARCH BUTTERFLIES
BY CAROL PASTERNAK
Firefly Books, 48 pages, $8.95
The monarch butterflies are amazing insects. They will travel more than 3,000 miles to reach their wintering grounds, eventually numbering in the millions there. They have a life cycle that varies from several weeks to several months and are certainly the most recognizable butterfly in North America. Carol Pasternak provides an easy-to-follow guide for children to participate in the life cycle of these beautiful insects. She shows a step-by-step look at how to collect the eggs or caterpillars and place them in a habitat where they will transform before your eyes into adults.
TURTLES, TORTOISES AND TERRAPINS
BY RONALD ORENSTEIN
Firefly Books, 448 pages, $59.95
Turtles, Tortoises and Terrapins have been around since the Triassic Period, some 200 million years ago. These unusual creatures have survived through the ages but now face their greatest threat as pollution, habitat destruction, over-hunting and climate change dwindle their numbers. Half the turtle species in the world are threatened with extinction.
Ronald Orenstein has written this detailed study of these beautiful creatures to help raise awareness of their danger and hopefully enlist more supporters in the fight for their survival. Brilliant colour photographs show the amazing variety and stunning markings of species from around the world. Orenstein provides detailed information on all aspects of turtles and how they live.
