The Wildlife Detectives: How Forensic Scientists Fight Crimes Against Nature (Scientists in the Field Series) [Hardcover]

Donna M. Jackson (Author), Bob Rozinski (Photographer), Wendy Shattil (Photographer)

Book Description

Age Level: 8 and up | Grade Level: 4 and up | Series: Scientists in the Field Series

Slaughtering elephants for their ivory; shooting bears for their gall bladders; capturing sea turtles for soup. In the name of vanity, fashion, and greed, man stalks and kills wild animals -- and gets away with it, even when it is clearly against the law. But now scientists have a way to catch and convict poachers. In a laboratory in Ashland, Oregon, they analyze clues to link suspects to crimes. In words and pictures, this book tells a poignant story and reveals how science can indeed save the day.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 4-7-A fascinating look at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Forensics Laboratory where scientists work to solve crimes, such as poaching. The book focuses on a specific incident-the shooting of a bull elk in Yellowstone National Park-and follows the case step-by-step. Interspersed with the story about this killing are "Wild Files" that give further information about the lab, the scientists, and related topics such as endangered wildlife protection laws. These inserts, alternating with two-page spreads of text, contain lots of intriguing information but their placement is a drawback. Although the main story is compelling, its continuity is continuously broken. Otherwise, this is an enjoyable, informative volume with well-placed, clear photos that add interest. Offer it to fans of the author's The Bone Detectives (Little, Brown, 1996) and nature enthusiasts, who will appreciate this foray into an intriguing and little-known area of wildlife conservation work.
Arwen Marshall, formerly at New York Public Library
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

In this companion to The Bone Detectives (1996), Jackson introduces young readers to the forensic scientists who track down criminals who harm wild animals. She recounts details of an actual 1993 case involving a bull elk slain for his antlers, which was solved by the scientists at the National Fish and Wildlife Forensics Laboratory in Ashland, Oregon. In a smoothly written text that unfolds almost like a mystery novel, Jackson explains how the detectives analyze clues, make use of sophisticated electronic equipment, and follow tips to solve crimes. Interspersed throughout are "Wild Files," sidebars describing current wildlife law, the various jobs in animal crime labs, and efforts to prevent the poaching of endangered species. Engaging full-color photographs help clarify the text and will appeal to browsers. A list of follow-up suggestions and a glossary of terms are appended. A book that will be welcomed by mystery fans and anyone who cares about animals. Kay Weisman

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 8 and up
  
• Hardcover: 48 pages
• Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children (April 24, 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0395869765
• ISBN-13: 978-0395869765
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 10.9 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.7 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #900,908 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Get Real! That's what I love to do most--write about real people, places, and things. During my travels, I've met some fascinating people, from bug scientists to bone detectives. I've also had the privilege of meeting some of the heroes--and hero dogs--of September 11th.

This year, I'm excited to share two new books: WHAT'S SO FUNNY?, which explores the worlds of humor and laughter, and THE ELEPHANT SCIENTIST, which follows the remarkable work of Caitlin O'Connell, a researcher who studies African elephants at Etosha National Park in Namibia. Both are books I hope you'll find as fascinating to read as I did to write!

Visit: www.donnamjackson.net

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

15 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Girls who read, read Wildlife Detectives, December 14, 2000

A Kid's Review

This review is from: The Wildlife Detectives: How Forensic Scientists Fight Crimes Against Nature (Scientists in the Field Series) (Hardcover)

Have you read it? If you haven't you should. It is about an elk named Charger. Who killed him? I'm not telling. Read it yourself.