Back from the Brink
Saving Animals from Extinction
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- $9.99
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- $9.99
Publisher Description
True stories of how scientists are saving endangered species, with photos included: “Readers will be moved by Castaldo’s appreciation for these animals.” —Booklist (starred review)
In this book, the acclaimed author of Sniffer Dogs details the successful efforts of scientists to bring threatened animals back from the brink of extinction.
How could capturing the last wild California condors help save them? Why are some states planning to cull populations of the gray wolf, despite this species only recently making it off the endangered list? How did a decision made during the Civil War to use alligator skin for cheap boots nearly drive the animal to extinction?
Back from the Brink answers these questions and more as it delves into the threats to seven species, and the scientific and political efforts to coax them back from the brink. This rich, informational look at the problem of extinction offers a source of hope—all of these animals’ numbers are now on the rise—and will inspire young wildlife lovers and aspiring scientists.
Winner of the Crystal Kite Award and a Sigurd F. Olsen Best Nature book Honorable Mention
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Castaldo vividly chronicles efforts to save seven endangered species: whooping cranes, wolves, bald eagles, Gal pagos tortoises, California condors, American alligators, and American bison. For each species, she discusses the reasons for their dwindling populations and the strides being made to assist in their recovery. In the case of the Gal pagos tortoises, conservationists were forced to wipe out destructive goats introduced to Isabela Island: "If officials didn't get rid of the goats, the entire ecosystem would continue to collapse." Castaldo also describes the triumphant reintroduction of wolves into Yellowstone National Park, which led to a rebalancing of that ecosystem. Photographs of the animals in the wild and in protected facilities complement this intimate and optimistic look at humans' ability to protect the planet's biodiversity. Ages 10 12.
