Owls (Animal Predators)

Gr 3-6-These titles focus on what makes these amazing animals such skilled predators. Markle reveals how their bodies are built to kill; their physical characteristics and behaviors combine to give them a high level of efficiency. The role of camouflage is aptly explained in flowing text and illustrated in clear photography. Speaking of the great white, Markle states, "Her white belly lets her sneak up on prey looking up from deeper water toward the light of the sky. Her dark blue gray back keeps her camouflaged (hidden) as she slips up on prey looking down into the dark ocean depths from near the surface." In the second book, the author looks at a variety of owls, including the great gray, whose coloration "blend[s] perfectly with the tree bark." In both titles, the full-color photography bedazzles on almost every page, particularly in showing the owl babies. These solid additions are sure to appeal to young naturalists.-Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA Copyright 2004 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.