Children's Animal Encyclopedia
A First Reference Book for Children

Children's Animal Encyclopedia

The First Animal Encyclopaedia, written by Anita Ganeri and published by DK Children, serves as an informative reference book for children aged 6 to 9. This visually captivating encyclopedia introduces young readers to a wide range of animals from various habitats like jungles, oceans, and deserts, through colourful photographs that depict their behaviors and surroundings.

Structured to present simple yet intriguing facts about different animal groups such as mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, insects, and fish, the book includes engaging "Did you know?" boxes and interactive "curiosity quizzes" in each section. These features enhance the learning process, encouraging children to actively engage with the content and fostering a curiosity for nature and wildlife.

While praised for its beautiful illustrations and accessible information, some feedback suggests that the First Animal Encyclopaedia may not delve deeply enough for older children or those seeking detailed species knowledge. Instead, it is seen as a fun and educational tool that sparks interest in animals and the natural world. Parents and educators find it especially beneficial for younger children who prefer learning visually.

In conclusion, the First Animal Encyclopaedia is a valuable tool for introducing children to the marvels of the animal kingdom, promoting exploration and discovery while laying a strong foundation for further learning.

Author: Anita Ganeri

Anita is an award-winning author of over 300 children's information books focusing on geography and the natural world. She is known for works like the Horrible Geography series and Atlas of Exploration. With a background in publishing, she has experience as an editor and foreign rights manager. Born in Calcutta, India, and raised in England, she now resides in northern England with her family and pets. Her interests include travelling, playing tennis, and all things related to books.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: DK Children
  • Format: Paperback
  • Print length: 168 pages
  • Dimensions: 21.8 x 1.1 x 27.8 cm
  • Reading age: 5 - 10 years old
  • Publication date: 1 Sept. 2015
  • ISBN: 978-0241188729

Read alongside these topics:

How prolific are birds in England and is there much variety compared to the rest of Europe?

Author: Anita Ganeri

Bird populations in England have experienced significant changes over the past few decades, reflecting broader environmental trends and conservation challenges.

Bird Populations in England

Overall, breeding bird populations in England have remained relatively stable from 1970 to 2010, with a slight increase overall but notable declines in specific habitats. Farmland bird populations have seen the most dramatic decrease, falling to less than half of their 1970 levels by 2010. Woodland birds have also declined by 20% over the same period. Conversely, seabird populations have increased slightly, and wintering waterbird populations were significantly higher in 2010 compared to 1975, although they have shown a decline in recent years.

Variety and Conservation Status

The variety of bird species in England is extensive, covering a wide range of habitats including farmland, woodland, wetlands, and coastal areas. However, many species are facing conservation challenges. For instance, several songbird species have been placed on the red list, indicating severe declines in their populations. Examples include the Wood Warbler, Spotted Flycatcher, and House Martin, among others.

Comparison with the Rest of Europe

While the specific comparison with the rest of Europe is difficult, it is clear that England's bird populations face similar challenges to those observed across Europe, such as habitat loss, agricultural intensification, and climate change. The broader European context also shows declines in bird populations, particularly farmland birds, which mirrors the trends seen in England.

Conclusion

England's bird populations are diverse but have experienced significant declines in certain habitats, particularly farmland and woodland areas. These trends are reflective of broader environmental pressures and are consistent with patterns observed across Europe. Conservation efforts remain crucial to address these declines and preserve the variety of bird species in England.

Discover Hands-On Education