An insight into mating, birth and rearing young in the animal world. It seeks to reveal the amazing and very varied ways in which the continuance of life is assured for future generations. The author compares the mating and reproduction tactics of insects and birds, reptiles and amphibians, sharks and whales, and big mammals such as wild horses, lions and elephants. Children will learn about life processes such as metamorphosis from caterpillar to adult insect, and the growth and development of young animals and how they are cared for.

This book has been produced with the aim of stimulating the general naturalist to take a closer look at the bumps and lumps that make up the fascinating world of plant galls. Induced by a variety of insects and other organisms and ranging from tiny pimples to bizarre and often very attractive and exquisitely sculptured growths, plant galls are mystery to many people, but they offer a fascinating field of study for both botanists and zoologists. Galls can be found on a very wide range of both woody and herbaceous plants, with over 50 different kinds occurring on Britain's oak trees alone, and there is still much to be learned about even the commonest examples.An introduction to the nature of plant galls and their formation Brief descriptions of some of the organisms that cause or induce galls Superb photographs of just over 200 of the commonest or most conspicuous of Britain's 1,000 or so plant galls, arranged according to their host plants to aid field identification Descriptions of these galls and the life histories of the organisms that cause them

Packed full of facts and detailed illustrations, this updated new edition is an expert family reference guide to the animals that inhabit our world. From the smallest mouse to the largest whale, this book offers a detailed and thorough introduction to an array of reptiles, amphibians and mammals, exploring their habits and habitats. Beginning with a biological and evolutionary overview of the animal kingdom, the book examines a huge range of animal characteristics, such as anatomy, survival instincts and reproduction, and takes a closer look at what it means to be an amphibian, reptile or mammal. The second half describes animals from North and South America, Africa, Europe, Asia and Australia. Over 1000 illustrations, 800 distribution maps and information boxes detailing habitat, diet, size, life span and conservation status accompany the entries.

Includes an amazing range of animals, from the largest, such as the big cats, giraffes and reindeer through to the smallest, such as the fire salamander, stoat and rock elephant shrew.

The ideal portable companion, the world-renowned Collins Gem series returns with a fresh new look and updated material. This is the perfect pocket guide for nature enthusiasts keen to identify the most commonly seen insects in Britain and northern Europe. Authoritative text and beautiful photographs show the distinguishing features of each insect to aid identification. Features information on size, habitat, geographical range and months when they can be spotted, as well as names of similar species with which each insect could be confused, and details of the differences between them. This new edition builds on the strengths of the unrivalled original, now expanded to include over 240 insects.

The ideal portable companion, the world-renowned Collins Gem series returns with a fresh new look and updated material. This is the perfect pocket guide for nature enthusiasts keen to identify the most commonly seen butterflies and moths in Britain and northern Europe. Authoritative text, beautiful photographs and detailed illustrations show the distinguishing features of each butterfly and moth to aid identification. Features information on size, habitat, geographical range and months when they can be spotted, as well as names of similar species with which each butterfly or moth could be confused, and details of the differences between them. This new edition builds on the strengths of the unrivalled original, now expanded to include over 240 butterflies and moths.