Pandas

Relates how pandas were discovered, their habitat and behavior, and recent efforts to restore the panda's population in the wild

From its opening chapter on the detailed history of Western acquaintance with the giant panda to the closing discussion of necessary steps to preserve this delightful species, this book progresses logically through the anatomy, physiology, behavior, and required environment of the species. A few color plates and numerous clear black-and-white drawings and maps illustrate the text. British spellings are used throughout. When presenting a controversial aspect (such as whether or not the panda is a bear), Catton gives several theories. The book is based on scientific evidence and observation but includes entertaining sections on the panda's history, its popularity, and the legend of its coloration. Useful for research on the panda specifically, this could also stimulate thinking on animal preservation in general. --Claudia Moore, W. T. Woodson High School, Fairfax, VA
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.

While George Schaller's The Giant Pandas of Wolong ( LJ 6/1/85) remains the undisputed source of current panda research, Catton's book is a more readable, though less well-organized, account aimed at informed laypersons and the general public. Catton covers humans' first encounters with pandas, the history of pandas' introduction to the Western world, the animals' social behavior and breeding, and the efforts to preserve the pandas' bamboo habitat as well as to successfully breed pandas in captivity. He also discusses the lesser-known red panda and the ongoing controversy about whether they are more closely related to bears or raccoons. Highly recommended for public libraries where interest in the species warrants.
- Edell Marie Peters, Brookfield P.L., Wis.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.