Zoo Clues: Making the Most of Your Visit to the Zoo

Offers facts and observations designed to enhance a visit to the zoo, and includes facts about reptiles, birds, mammals, and primates

Grade 4-6-- A fascinating, quick survey of 28 groups of animals to be seen in zoos. In sections on reptiles, birds, mammals, and primates, Gerstenfeld gives characteristics that distinguish each and brief statistics for each group within the section--life span, gestation times, body temperatures, speed of travel--the kinds of things children ask that are not always easy to find. He poses questions and points out things to watch for, and in a preface for adults, he suggests how to use the facts to help children observe and interpret what they see. Liberally distributed cartoon sketches illustrate the animals' appearances or behavior, such as an ostrich chick in a karate coat, kicking its way out of its thick shell. Of special interest are two zoos' annual shopping lists of food and the "Veterinarians' Behind the Scenes Info" sections that highlight care and treatment for each group. Browsers will love this--but beneath the light touch, the book encourages respect, and notes the elephant's endangered status. --Ruth M. McConnell, San Antonio Public Library
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.