Why are newborn bears so tiny? How does the joey find its way to its
mother's pouch? Why are fruit bats born large, alert and with their eyes
open? These and many other questions are answered in this essential
guide to the life cycles of the world's mammals.
This fascinating book describes and illustrates the various, and
sometimes unique, ways in which mammals raise their young and live their
lives. More than seventy different types of mammals are represented,
from the chimpanzee, which does not gain its independence until the age
of seven or eight, to the tiny hamster, which is already fending for
itself after only two months.
The main text provides a vivid synopsis of each animal's life, including
how the animal learns to survive, achieves independence, and mates.
Superb illustrations and detailed captions offer additional about the
various stages that the animal goes through. Multiple points of interest
highlight special aspects of each animal's life, such as breeding
season, litter size, and average life expectancy.