Look at Me!: Wild Animal Show-Offs

Gr 1–4—The magnificent coloration of many birds and other animals do not necessarily protect them from predators. These displays are often meant to show off the health and vigor of a creature in order to attract a compatible mate. Rattles, horns, antlers, and ballooning skin also serve in mating rituals. Arnosky pairs full-page, colorful watercolor illustrations with an informative narrative to explain the uses of these displays and to urge readers to wonder at their beauty. Foldout pages allow for large representations of some of the creatures. Peacocks, turkeys, and grouses embody the glory of their fan tail display. Anoles, cobras, and the frilled lizards typify the skin spreaders whose displays are meant to show their fierce power to competitors and foes. Horned animals such as deer, elk, and goats keep competitors away through the sight and use of their powerful headgear. A useful bibliography will encourage further exploration of these spectacular animal displays.