Wild Animal Neighbors: Sharing Our Urban World
This handsome book considers the presence of wild animals in cities, town, and suburbs. Certain species enter populated areas because of climate change and shrinking natural habitats, while others are drawn by carelessly discarded food. Downer leads readers across the country and around the world to observe mountain lions in Los Angeles, crows in Tokyo, coyotes in Chicago, flying foxes in Sydney, loggerhead sea turtles in Sarasota, alligators in Houston, and raccoons throughout the U.S. In some places, the animals jeopardize public safety, while in others, such as coastal areas where sea turtle hatchlings are drawn toward the urban lights, people threaten the survival of animals. Each chapter examines the particular challenges faced by a species as well as the response of a community to the problems that arise. Clearly written, the text is quite readable and informative. Excellent color photos takes readers “on location,” while fact boxes, sidebars, and captions provide additional information. An attractive presentation of an intriguing topic. Grades 5-8. --Carolyn Phelan