City Critters

When we think of wild animals, we don't immediately associate them with the cities we live in. But a closer look soon reveals that we share our urban environment with a great many untamed creatures. Heavily illustrated and full of entertaining and informative facts, City Critters examines how and why so many wild animals choose to live in places that, on first glance at least, seem contrary to their needs. How do those deer, raccoons, squirrels, skunks, coyotes, crows, gulls and geese – not to mention the alligators, eagles, otters and snakes – manage to survive in the big city? What special skills do city critters have that many of their wilderness cousins lack? Why have they developed these skills? And what are our responsibilities in ensuring that these animals can continue to share our city lives?

Discusses the lives of wild animals that live in a North American urban environment--

This anthology explores Chicago’s surprisingly diverse wildlife through essays, poetry, paintings, and photographs. We usually think of cities as the domain of humans—but we are just one of thousands of species that call the urban landscape home. While Chicago residents are likely familiar with squirrels, pigeons, and dogs, many would be surprised to learn about the leafhoppers and water bears, black-crowned night herons and bison, beavers and massasauga rattlesnakes that are living alongside them. City Creatures introduces readers these and other creatures through a variety of creative contributions. Contributors bring a story-based approach to this urban safari, taking readers on birding expeditions to the Magic Hedge at Montrose Harbor on the North Side, canoe trips down the South Fork of the Chicago River (better known as Bubbly Creek), and insect-collecting forays or restoration work days in the suburban forest preserves. The book is organized into six sections, each highlighting one type of place in which people might encounter animals in the city and suburbs. For example, schoolyard chickens and warrior wasps populate “Backyard Diversity,” and a chorus of deep-freeze frogs awaits in “Water Worlds.” Its powerful combination of insightful narratives, numinous poetry, and full-color art will help readers see the city—and the creatures who share it with us—in an entirely new light.

"Brightly coloued photographs and minimal text identifying the birds and animals that children may encounter in urban settings."--

Using stories to show the importance of wildlife in Native American traditions, this book gives parents and teachers an exciting way to teach children about animals.

Wildlife abounds in every corner of the world, and cities are no exception. There's no need for readers to pack a bag for the urban safaris of this series--the wild life is just around the corner. The animals featured here are easy to spot in many cities, towns, and suburbs. Each volume includes a fact spread that gives readers fun tidbits about each neighborhood critter. Bright, colorful photographs show the animals in their urban habitat. Kid-friendly text describes each animal's city habitat, diet, and life cycle, and explains what effects these animals have on their human neighbors.

Learning about the wildlife that lives in urban landscapes and the reasons why is fun for readers because it happens through the eyes of Scooter the dog and is delivered through his story. Children will connect with this cute dog and the love his family has for him and they will learn a lot about the wildlife right outside the front door! Wild ones are moving into the city! Follow the adorable, curious dog Scooter as he travels through an urban landscape, seeing many wild animals. Cathy's charming illustrations draw upon real-life city scenes from across the United States. Supplementary material contains information about the wild species now often living in cities and how they have adapted. Plus Carol offers a section "Is it Really True?" that is both informational and fun. This book is a wonderful aid for children to become aware of the presence of wild animals and understand why they have taken to living in cities. Backmatter Includes: Explore More for Kids: photos and information about the animals in this book. Explore More for Teachers & Parents: Activities for home and school to build on the knowledge in this book.