Crocodiles ANNOTATION
Describes the physical characteristics, behavior, habitat, and endangered status of crocodiles.
FROM THE CRITICS
Children's Literature
Just about everything you ever wanted to know about crocodiles is included in this book. Crocodiles, an amazing class of animal, have survived over 200 million years of change on earth. Crocs are master hunters, often living on the edges of rivers and lakes where prey is abundant. There are 74 known species of the animal, from the timid and rarely seen American crocodile to the fierce, 23-foot-long Indo-Pacific crocodile, which kills over 1000 people per year. Some of the species are endangered. These reptiles have fascinated humans since the times of Ancient Egypt. Some civilizations worshipped crocodiles; others used parts of the animal for charms and medicines. Packed with brilliant color photographs, this informative book provides reference material for all ages. Included are a glossary, species checklist, book list for further reading, bibliography and index. This is part of the "Animal Ways" series. 2001, Benchmark Books/Marshall Cavendish. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Christopher Moning
School Library Journal
Gr 3-5-These titles open with an overview of the featured animal, end with a look at its relationship with humans, and cover such basic topics as its food sources, hunting habits, mobility, and natural predators in between. Seals differentiates between true and eared seal through skeletal diagrams and photographs; describes the various freshwater and saltwater species; and explains their varied diets, which range from krill and conger eels to penguins and crabs. Crocodiles distinguishes the varied snouts that identify alligators, caimans, and gharials; tells of the great care that a mother crocodile shows toward her young (in great contrast to the role of some mother seals); and illustrates crocodilian locomotion on land and in water. Both authors explain the direct and indirect role of humans in the lives of these creatures, from the harmful effect of polluted water to the beneficial changes in hunting laws, which have allowed these populations to increase. Striking, full-page photos and useful range maps, accompanied by clear, short sentences and easily found definitions, provide budding naturalists or young report writers with solid introductory resources.-Pam Spencer Holley, Young Adult Literature Specialist, Virginia Beach, VA Copyright 2003 Cahners Business Information.
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