New Releases by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent

Did you know that beaver ponds provide habitat for hundreds if not thousands of life forms? Using their extremely strong teeth, beavers chop down trees to build a dam. The dam creates a pond that is habitat for everything from algae to giant moose. After creating the pond, the beavers build a lodge. The lodge is sometimes used by other animals besides beavers. Muskrats may live inside the lodge either with or without the beavers, or geese may build their nest atop the lodge. The dam itself is used as a bridge to cross the water by deer, ducks or any other number of creatures. The pond is home to numerous life forms. Lily pads grow in the pond and frogs sit on lily pads to catch flies. Learn about the pivotal role beavers play in making all of this life possible. Gorgeous photos and inviting text make AT HOME WITH THE BEAVER: THE STORY OF A KEYSTONE SPECIES a must have for young naturalists hoping to learn more about the interconnectedness of life. Other Books in the Series: AT HOME WITH THE GOPHER TORTOISE: THE STORY OF A KEYSTONE SPECIES.

In this groundbreaking, exceptionally researched installment of the award-winning Scientists in the Field series, discover how lizards rapidly adapt to life in the Caribbean islands, allowing scientists to study Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection in real time. Award-winning author Dorothy Hinshaw Patent joins forces with scientists/filmmakers Neil Losin and Nate Dappen, whose work is detailed in the Smithsonian Channel documentary “Laws of the Lizard,” to explore how the small but mighty lizards we call “anoles” are used by scientists to study basic principles of evolution and ecology. Travel with the team to Florida and the Caribbean as they research how anoles followed similar but independent evolutionary paths on the four major islands of the Greater Antilles (Puerto Rico, Hispaniola, Jamaica, and Cuba). So while anoles on different islands may look like close relatives, they often are not! This is Darwin''s principle of natural selection at work. And it makes anoles the perfect subjects for experiments that study how animals adapt to new challenges—such as climate change—in this exciting and timely addition to a celebrated series.

Gorgeous photographs, and clear text introduce readers to the effects of climate change on the pika and on other life-forms in the high mountains.

In this addition to the critically acclaimed Scientist in the Field series, Dorothy Patent follows the scientists trying to put a stop to a gruesome disease before it''s too late. Tasmanian devils are dying at an alarming rate from a type of tumor that appears to be contagious. What scientists are learning while researching the Tasmanian devil has potential to affect all animals, and even humans, as they learn more about how to prevent and hopefully eradicate certain genetic diseases. In 1995, a deadly disease began sweeping across the Australian island state of Tasmania, killing every infected Tasmanian devil. The disease moved so fast that some scientists feared the species would be wiped out in the wild within a few decades. Where did this disease, named Devil Facial Tumor Disease, come from? What caused it--a virus, bacteria, or something else? How did it pass from one devil to another? What could be done to fight it? When author Dorothy Hinshaw Patent learned of the race to save the devil from her friend, Australian geneticist Jenny Graves, she felt compelled to travel to Australia to learn firsthand from scientists what they were finding out about these iconic Tasmanian animals and what they were doing to help it from disappearing in the wild. Follow Dorothy as she takes readers on a fascinating journey into the Australian mainland and Tasmania, visiting parks and wildlife refuges and joining geneticist, ecologists, and other researchers as they work tirelessly to save Tasmania''s unique icon.

Dog lovers everywhere will enjoy this insightful, adorable, and fact-filled photographic picture-book exploration of why dogs really are a man''s best friend. It''s no secret that people and pups are best friends. But did you know that this special bond dates back tens of thousands of years? During that time, we have only grown closer. Now cutting-edge science is helping us learn why we''re so perfect together. Brain-imaging machines show how simply seeing you makes your dog''s brain light up in its reward center. And blood samples reveal how just a touch or a gaze between two devoted friends releases helpful hormones that de-stress both pooch and person. In fact, we really speak each other''s language--using pointing, barking, touch, and body movement. Dogs make our lives better in so many ways. They keep us safe, rescue us in disasters, and guide us when we can''t see. But a dog''s most important job is to be its person''s best friend. And as we learn more about the similarities of people and our four-legged friends, it''s clear we are truly made for each other. "By the time you finish this book, you''re ready to add a dog to your family." --Huffington Post

A "photo-essay about Eclipse, a dog who rides the bus to the dog park herself, became a viral sensation on social media and TV, and has become the mascot for the Seattle Transit Authority"--

Humans have relied on the strength, speed, and endurance of the horse for more than nine thousand years, utilizing them for work, warfare, entertainment, and companionship. Throughout history, humans have shown how much they admire and respect these animals through decoration and embellishment. Divided into three sections—Warfare and Hunting, Performance and Competition, and Ceremony and Celebration—this book introduces readers to the many ways humans have used and honored horses. Their decorations highlight how important horses are to various people, from the symbolic paintings that the Plains Indians used to decorate their battle and hunting companions to silks and flowers awarded to thoroughbreds in competition to the colorful, playful costumes adorning the horses that pull painted carts through the streets of Sicily to honor saints. Jeannie Brett’s action-packed illustrations highlight the beauty and care that humans have taken when creating decoration for their horses, incorporating cultural significance, celebratory beauty, and respected ferocity.

A stunning addition to the Scientists in the Field series that explores mercury pollution found in the rivers and streams of Western Montana that might cause harm to humans--and the extinction of the entire osprey species.

Kids are invited to explore and discover the northern plains through the eyes and ears of a bison calf.

A dog''s nose is 300 times more powerful than a human nose, so it''s no wonder that dogs use their incredibly advanced sense of smell to do some very important jobs. Dorothy Hinshaw Patent explores the various ways specific dogs have put their super sniffing ability to use: from bedbug sniffers to explosive detectors to life-saving allergy detectors . . . and more. This dynamic photo-essay includes first-hand accounts from the people who work closely with these amazing dogs.

Follows a survivor of the Michael Vick dog-fighting ring, the black pit bull terrier pup eventually named after World War II hero Audie Murphy, as he get socialized, undergoes surgery, trains in agility, and becomes a coach for other dogs.

Homesteading: Settling America�s Heartland describes the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of the brave pioneer families who set out into the unknown to create a home on the vast, desolate grasslands of the Great Plains. The Homestead Act of 1862 offered, practically free, a 160-acre plot to anyone willing to develop it. Hundreds of men, women, and children took advantage of the opportunity to build a home, a farm, and a while new life on the western prairie. The homesteader�s life could be harsh. The Great Plains had few resources, unpredictable weather, and numerous dangers. Nevertheless, many stalwart Americans and immigrants took up the challenge. Many failed, but others survived and eventually thrived, opening the way for generations of Westerners to come. Kids and adults alike will delight in this engaging short history, beautifully illustrated with full-color photographs by William Mu�

Tells of the transformative period in the early 16th century when the Spaniards introduced horses to the Great Plains, and how horses became, and remain, a key part of the Plains Indians'' culture.

Yellowstone National Park''s majestic geologic wonders and remarkable wildlife draw millions of visitors each year. But there was a time when these natural treasures were in great danger, all because after years of unrestricted hunting, one key piece of the puzzle had been eliminated-the wolf. Now, more than a decade after scientists realized the wolves'' essential role and returned them to Yellowstone, the park''s natural balance is gradually being restored. The informative dual-level text and spectacular full-color photographs show the wolves in the natural habitat that was almost lost without them. Readers of all ages will be inspired by the delicate natural system that is Yellowstone.

Countless herds of majestic buffalo once roamed across the plains and prairies of North America. For at least 10,000 years, the native people hunted the buffalo and depended upon its meat and hide for their survival. But to the Indians, the buffalo was also considered sacred. They saw this abundant, powerful animal as another tribe, one that was closely related to them, and they treated it with great respect and admiration. Here, an award-winning nonfiction team traces the history of this relationship, from its beginnings in prehistory to the present. Deftly weaving social history and science, Dorothy Hinshaw Patent discusses how European settlers slaughtered the buffalo almost to extinction, breaking the back of Indian cultures. And she shows how today, as Indians are reviving their cultures, they are also restoring buffalo herds to the land. Featuring William Munoz’s stunning full-color photographs, supplemented with paintings by well-known artists, this book is an inspiring tale of a successful conservation effort. Author’s note, suggestions for further reading, index.

Describes the physical characteristics, habitats, hunting behaviors, and endangered status of a variety of wild cats around the world.

Describes the anatomy, life cycle, and behavior of the white-tailed deer.

Tells how a golden retriever is trained as a service dog, to help someone who has trouble moving their arms or legs, and later as a guide dog for a man who cannot see.

Far to the north along the Pacific coast of Canada lies an area where abundant rainfall nourishes everything from bright green grasses and colorful wildflowers to ancient, towering cedar, spruce, and sitka trees. This rainforest is the perfect habitat for salmon and a wide variety of birds, insects, and animals, most notably a unique type of black bear called the spirit bear, which is sometimes clothed in creamy white fur and has become legendary among the First Nation people who live in the region. Noted naturalist Dorothy Hinshaw Patent describes the elusive spirit bear and its home, which is in danger of being destroyed by loggers and settlers as they clear-cut the ancient forests for lumber. Every part of the delicate ecosystem is threatened. But steps are now being taken to set aside a protected spirit bear sanctuary--a living museum where people could come and see the spirit bear''s realm. The beautiful, detailed watercolors by Deborah Milton will transport readers to this magnificent yet vanishing region.

Provides an overview of coral reefs as ecosystems, describing different types of corals and how they reproduce and discussing the variety of fishes and other animals that depend on coral reefs to sustain them.

Describes the physical characteristics and behavior of various kinds of tropical butterflies.

Examines the physical features, processes, and many different species of plants and animals that make up the ecosystem of the American tallgrass prairie.

Go on a journey that begins with a few drops of rain on the dry desert floor. Using the Sonoran Desert as an example, Life in a Desert examines the physical features, processes, and many different species of plants and animals that make up a unique desert ecosystem. Find out about the impact of humans on this delicate ecosystem and what is being done to save it. Book jacket.

Describes the black-footed ferret, an endangered mammal from Montana, Wyoming, and North Dakota, and discusses efforts to preserve it.

Retraces the Lewis and Clark journey and blends their observations of previously unknown animals with modern information about those same animals.

Just in time for the 200th anniversary of Lewis and Clark''s expedition, the award-winning author of more than 100 nonfiction books for children, Dorothy Hinshaw Patent, joins photographer William Munoz to capture the contrast between the American West "then and now, " aided by old prints, photos, and paintings. Full color.

Did you know that some snakes lie in ambush for weeks waiting for their prey to come within striking distance? You''d think it would be hard to survive in the wild without legs. But look at snakes! More than 2,500 different kinds of snakes slither and creep throughout the world. They live almost everywhere on Earth, except for the North and South Poles, and some isolated islands. Snakes come in only one shape, but they come in many patterns and sizes -- from the two-inch long thread snakes that are as skinny as the lead in your pencil to the thirty-two foot reticulated python that is big enough to eat a pig or small child. Kendahl Jan Jubb''s lush and scientifically accurate illustrations capture these scaly predators as they hunt, hide, and reproduce. As far back as the Garden of Eden snakes have had the power to both fascinate and repel us. Their deadly simplicity is always compelling.

Provides brief descriptions of a variety of animals living in the rain forest, including piranhas, jaguars, and macaws.

Ever since Earth was formed more than 4.5 billion years ago, the planet has been continuously shaped by dynamic forces. The most significant impact was made by the introduction of life. From the smallest single-cell organism to the most populous cities, living things--especially human beings--have had a profound effect on the planet. As a new millennium begins, conservation efforts are more important than ever for Earth''s survival. Authoritative text and dramatic photographs show how our role in shaping the Earth can be just as significant as the massive eruptions of volcanoes or the shifting of huge tectonic plates. GLOSSARY, INDEX.

Presents background information about the sinking of the Spanish galleon, Atocha, in 1622 and describes efforts to locate the wreck and successfully salvage its treasure more than 300 years later.