Overview
Was it too late to save the red wolf? For hundreds of years, these remarkable animals had roamed freely across the eastern United States. Yet by the 1960s, red wolves were pushed to the brink of extinction by hunting, habitat destruction, and disease. How would biologists and wildlife officials find a way to restore the population of red wolves in the wild?Synopsis
Was it too late to save the red wolf? For hundreds of years, these remarkable animals had roamed freely across the eastern United States. Yet by the 1960s, red wolves were pushed to the brink of extinction by hunting, habitat destruction, and disease. How would biologists and wildlife officials find a way to restore the population of red wolves in the wild?
Children's Literature
Hunted to the brink of extinction, and the first predator to ever return to its natural habitat after becoming extinct in the wild, red wolves are slowly making a population comeback in the United States. This book takes readers through the red wolves' journey as a species, from a time of abundance during the 1600s to the 20th century when only seventeen pure blooded red wolves were left in the wild. Readers follow conservation efforts as concerned scientists work with zoos to save this species that was among the first listed under the Endangered Species Act. Colorful photographs and illustrations bring the journey of the red wolves to life, making this book more than a documentary. Part of the "America's Animal Comebacks" series, this book contains a quick reference index and glossary of new terms for readers, as well as a list of print and online resources where interested readers can learn more about the recovery of the red wolves. This book would make an excellent addition to libraries supporting environmental and ecological studies. Reviewer: Jamie Hain
Editorials
Children's Literature -
Hunted to the brink of extinction, and the first predator to ever return to its natural habitat after becoming extinct in the wild, red wolves are slowly making a population comeback in the United States. This book takes readers through the red wolves' journey as a species, from a time of abundance during the 1600s to the 20th century when only seventeen pure blooded red wolves were left in the wild. Readers follow conservation efforts as concerned scientists work with zoos to save this species that was among the first listed under the Endangered Species Act. Colorful photographs and illustrations bring the journey of the red wolves to life, making this book more than a documentary. Part of the "America's Animal Comebacks" series, this book contains a quick reference index and glossary of new terms for readers, as well as a list of print and online resources where interested readers can learn more about the recovery of the red wolves. This book would make an excellent addition to libraries supporting environmental and ecological studies. Reviewer: Jamie HainSchool Library Journal
Gr 3-6
These titles introduce the work of scientists to restore California condors and red wolves to viable populations in the wild. Each book begins with the day of a captive animal's release into its natural habitat. Then, the book goes back to trace the decline of the species; the plan for capture, breeding, and release; and a review of the success of the endeavor. The narratives, meant to be read straight through, flow well and paint a clear picture of the trials and triumphs of each project. Crisp photos and maps on every page work well with the text and give faces to the scientists and animals. The back matter includes a facts page, information on related species, and an up-to-date reading list. These useful books will work equally well for curious readers who enjoy narrative nonfiction and those with assignments on either species.-Ellen Heath, Easton Area Public Library, Easton, PA