A Visual Guide To Reptiles And Dinosaurs

Students will time travel to the Age of Reptiles and discover the world of dinosaurs in this vivid, detailed guide. They will trace the development of reptiles through the prehistoric periods of life on earth and learn different theories for the cause of dinosaurs' mass extinction. Gorgeous photographs and illustrations will captivate readers as they learn about the hard shells, spiny skin, and telescopic eyes of various animals in the reptile kingdom. The deadly saliva of the komodo dragon, the constrictive power of the tree boa, and the impressive jaws of the crocodile will thrill while the quirky habits and features of geckos, chameleons, and iguanas will charm in this expansive text. Students will also learn the roles that reptiles have played in myths and religions and the trouble that some endangered species face.

Students will time travel to the Age of Reptiles and discover the world of dinosaurs in this vivid, detailed guide. They will trace the development of reptiles through the prehistoric periods of life on earth and learn different theories for the cause of dinosaurs' mass extinction. Gorgeous photographs and illustrations will captivate readers as they learn about the hard shells, spiny skin, and telescopic eyes of various animals in the reptile kingdom. The deadly saliva of the komodo dragon, the constrictive power of the tree boa, and the impressive jaws of the crocodile will thrill while the quirky habits and features of geckos, chameleons, and iguanas will charm in this expansive text. Students will also learn the roles that reptiles have played in myths and religions and the trouble that some endangered species face.

"Visitors to a natural history museum could not explore the number of examples contained here" - Booklist Fascinating and authoritative, this book is an unprecedented survey of millions of years of life on planet Earth. Featuring an incredible mix of 3-D reconstructions, extraordinary skeletons, and amazingly intricate fossils, it uses the latest scientific research to recreate a wealth of ancient species, from the earliest primitive life forms to great dinosaurs, early mammals, and even the first humans. This richly illustrated catalogue starts with the first Precambrian microbes and traces the evolution of life through mass extinctions and ice ages. As well as dinosaurs, it features extinct plants, invertebrates, amphibians, fish, birds, reptiles, and mammals, conjuring up a series of past worlds. The book also explores geological time and examines how fossils preserve the story of evolution. This abridged edition of DK's Prehistoric (2009) features updated information on hundreds of life forms, with a scattering of new entries - including the jellyfish Haootia, and the early Cretaceous mammal Ambolestes. Artists' impressions of the living, breathing animals have also been updated according to the latest findings about colouring, feathers, and scales. Combining stunning visuals and clear text, Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Life is a fascinating encyclopedia for the whole family - as well as anyone enthralled by T-Rex, or the dinosaurs of the Cretaceous and Jurassic worlds.

The Complete Guide to Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Reptiles is a thorough guide to the days before humans evolved, when great lizards walked the earth. The reference book will walk readers through prehistoric eras, including the Triassic period, the Jurassic period, and the Cretaceous period. Details on early life, from single-celled ocean life to the first reptiles that walked on land, sets the stage for complex studies of flying reptiles, birdlike dinosaurs, carnivores, herbivores, and omnivores. Dinosaurs may be extinct, but they continue to fascinate. This comprehensive guide to prehistoric creatures identifies over 250 key species and provides detailed information on what they looked like, where and how they lived, how they fought, and how they died. Packed with the latest research and discoveries, and with vivid up-to-date illustrations throughout, this is the biggest and best dinosaur reference available.

"A comprehensive look at the world of dinosaurs with more than 250 superb illustrations.--from front cover.

From beaks and flying styles to nests and dances, readers of this vibrant book will learn about the basic characteristics and fascinating variations of different bird species. They will become familiar with how different birds are born and develop, how birds migrate in different parts of the world, and how birds develop different strategies for defense against predators. In addition to the scientifically accurate and informative text, captivating visuals will introduce readers to the hoatzin of the Amazon, the grey crowned crane of eastern and southern Africa, the tawny frogmouth of Australia, and more. Readers will also connect to more common birds, learn about bird domestication, and realize the dangers that endangered species of birds face.

When did anatomically modern humans emerge onto the scene? What traits did humanity leave behind in its development? What traits have we gained, and how might we develop in the future? With this beautifully designed guide, readers will learn the answers to these questions and more. They will explore the study of genetics and discover the impact this particular science has had on humanity as well as on our understanding of the rest of the natural world. They will also touch on genetic diseases and disorders, as well as the implications of genetic modification. Detailed diagrams, full-color illustrations, and engaging language round out this essential text on evolution and genetics.

The Visual Guides series answers the most important questions on topics that fascinate everyone through a series of videos and animations: weather, the human body, the Earth, the universe and plants. It provides images of natural phenomena and explanations of fundamental concepts, and features the very latest discoveries in these areas.