General

• Atkinson, Kathie 1994, A is for Australian animals, Omnibus, Norwood, S.A.
  Paperback, 32 p.
  This book presents basic information about a large variety of well-known and lesser known Australian animals. Illustrated with a very clear, detailed colour photograph of each animal, the book gives information in two or three short paragraphs regarding habitat, food, breeding and reproduction, defence mechanisms and other features pertinent to certain animals. This work would be ideal for fostering further respect for the Australian animal kingdom and its wide array of inhabitants.
  591.994 ATK (Level: EC-UP)
• Chase, Diana; Krantz, Valerie 1995, Legendary animals, (The stories behind the legends), Macmillan Education, South Yarra, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  Animals strongly identified with Australia - kangaroos and wallabies, dingoes, cattle dogs and kelpies, the Thylacine and racehorses such as Phar Lap - are presented from historic and scientific points of view. The writing is lively and anecdotal and the subject matter fascinating. The series, The stories behind the legends, attempts to establish the facts behind popular legends. The language is age-appropriate and the balance between text and illustrations is encouraging for competent young readers. The sepia tones used in the layout help give a period feel. Headings help the reader focus on the relevant information and the contents, glossary and reference pages are helpful.
  599.0994 CHA (Level: MP-UP)
• Clyne, Densey; Frazier, Jim (illus) & Carruthers, Glen (illus) 1999, Densey Clyne's wildlife of Australia, Reed New Holland, Sydney.
  Paperback, 144 p.
  Clyne shares her expertise and fascination with wildlife in this superbly illustrated book. In a conversational style, she adds another dimension to factual knowledge with her rare insights and experiences. From tiny sawflies and ants to the graceful Eastern Grey kangaroo and the brolgas, she combines scientific knowledge and personal encounters into a richly informative whole. She draws on a great depth of research and a wealth of superlative photographs to compile an absorbing book for researchers and browsers.
  591.994 CLY (Level: MP-LS)
• Dale, Kim 2003, Bush babies, Lothian, Melbourne.
  Hardcover, 30 p.
  This engaging lift-the-flap book, with its muted illustrations accompanied by lyrical poetry, introduces Australian mammal and bird babies in their habitats. Young readers have to guess the creature' identities before lifting the flaps. As an appendix, the 'Fauna facts' on the three types of mammals extend the picture book's usefulness to the upper grades. The meticulously detailed illustrations are set against the soft wash backgrounds of the daylight and nocturnal settings. The verse introduces a number of scientific facts, describing the physical characteristics, habits and habitats of each species. (Not all are 'bush' creatures.) This is a beautiful book, that could be gainfully used as extension material for Lower primary Science syllabus, 'Life and living' strand, Discretionary learning outcome D1.4 and Core learning outcome 2.1.
  591.30994 DAL 2003 (Level: EC-LP)
• Dale, Kim 2001, Eyes in the dark, Lothian, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 30 p.
  Dramatic paintings on black are a feature of this very attractive book. Each opening shows the eyes of a nocturnal Australian animal facing three stanzas of rhyming text in white on black, which describes it. Then a large flap folds back to reveal a splendid picture of the whole animal. These beautifully rendered illustrations are accurate representations as well as being aesthetically pleasing. The text in verse is supplemented by two pages of 'Fauna Facts' giving more detailed information on each animal plus a small location map for each.
  591.5 DAL (Levels: EC-MP)
• Dale, Kim 2000, What am I?, Lothian, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Paperback, 30 p.
  In this colourful book, fourteen Australian animals play a guessing game with young readers. On the left hand page, the question is posed in a rhyming descriptive text while a large lift-up flap on the right shows the habitat, and then the animal. The flap opens into a triple spread making it useful for group work. The striking watercolour paintings give reasonably accurate representations of the animals; though the match with the text is not always exact e.g. the platypus. A section giving a location map and zoological details of each animal seems intended for teachers.
  591.994 DAL (Level: EC-UP)
• Morcombe, Irene 2000, ABC of Australian animals, Working title, Kent town, S.A.
  Paperback, 26 p.
  Superlative high-resolution photographs in close-ups are the strength of this colourful book, as they make information accessible to all age-groups. Although arranged as an alphabet book, with large letters in upper and lower case, the book's likely audience would be much older than the usual early childhood one. The detailed description of each of the animals is more suitable for established readers. Taken together with the pictures, they provide a fund of useful knowledge, especially as some less well-known species are included e.g. the marsupial Dibbler of Western Australia.
  591.994 MOR (Level: EC-UP)
• Oliver, Narelle 2001, Baby Bilby, where do you sleep? Lothian, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 30 p
  The creatures of the desert come alive in the poetry of this exquisite book, which is based on the illustrations from Sand swimmers. 'Where do you sleep?' is asked of a bilby, a gecko, a treecreeper, a hopping mouse, a planigale and a gibber dragon. Cut out holes frame each creature. Other 'secret animals' are hidden on the pages. Use in conjunction with Sand swimmers for Lower primary Science for examining animals and their habitats, or for Year 8 Art for discussing picture books.
  A821.3 OLI (Level: P-LP)
• Parish, Steve 1998, Australian rainforest, (Nature kids), Steve Parish, Fortitude Valley, Qld.
  Paperback, 47 p.
  From the forest floor to the canopy, this shows the great variety of animals to be found in the rainforest. It includes catbirds and cassowaries, platypus, pythons and possums, as well as frogs and crayfish. The numerous large high-quality colour photographs make access to information easy for less-able readers and also for pre-readers. The simple text, set in large typeface in small blocks, extends that knowledge. After a definition of the topic, approximately twenty-two subtopics explore it further.
  591.734 PAR (Level: EC-UP)
• Parish, Steve; Slater, Pat 1995, Say hello frog, (Steve Parish say hello collection), Steve Parish, Fortitude Valley, Qld.
  Paperback, 32 p.
  This is a photograph study of frogs; with birds, ducks, insects, a lizard, platypus, crayfish, snake, crocodile and turtle also featured. This is a sturdy, colourful little paperback picture book with covers shaped at the top like the heads of the subjects. The text is very simple, telling in short sentences the main features of the creature's life. However, the main source of interest and information is the high quality photographs, which capture each subject in many situations and poses, ideal for deducing details from visual clues. The books could be used by children with minimal reading skills for research into the basics of each animal, e.g. appearance; habits; food; habitat. The young animal is usually pictured.
  597.8 PAR (Level: EC)
• Pearson, Jane 2000, Animal food, (Let's look at Australian animals), Echidna, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  A variety of animals, including birds and bees, are shown actually eating in this cleverly photographed book. It is very attractive and well-designed and ideal for beginning readers. It has a high resolution and very apt full-page photograph facing a page showing the name of the animal in large dark green print. A simple sentence provides basic information but also includes interesting vocabulary as a small challenge to the young reader. A table of contents, glossary and an index, which also groups animals such as grass, leaf or nectar eaters, are all included.
  591.994 PEA (Level: EC)
• Pearson, Jane 2000, Animal skin, scales, fur and feathers, (Let's look at Australian animals), Echidna, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  The title of this book promises all that the book delivers as the animals covered range from crocodiles, snakes and marine creatures to the echidna, platypus and emu. A very attractive, well-designed book ideal for beginning readers. It has a high resolution and very apt full-page photograph facing a page showing the name of the animal in large dark green print. A simple sentence provides basic information but also includes interesting vocabulary as a small challenge to the young reader.
  591.994 PEA (Level: EC)
• Pyers, Greg 2004, Life in a gum tree, (Life in a), Echidna, Port Melbourne.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  This colourful information book provides accessible information on the various species that live on a gum tree. A useful resource for developing research skills and supporting studies in Science (Life and Living strand, Level 3 and Level 4). Clearly reproduced photographs enhance the well-organised information provided through the 'Life in a _' series. The habitat is defined and the interactions of members of the 'community' with each other and their environment are discussed before specific species are examined more closely. The text is accessible with sentence structures and vocabulary appropriate to the target audience. Around three paragraphs of text provide a general description of a species and its characteristics. A coloured text box includes interesting information on an aspect of the main text. Thumbnail diagrams of related creatures or plant forms are included in the page margins. Direct headings and sub headings provide useful tools for students developing their research skills. A double page diagram titled 'What lives in a _?' provides opportunity for students to identify the various life forms they have read about by matching the numbers in the diagram to the key provided. Advice on exploring a specific habitat includes safety tips. Each book includes a contents page, simple index, further reading suggestions, and a glossary of terms that have been highlighted in the text. The Curriculum Collection holds the three other titles from the series (creek, rockpool, and desert dune). OZ
  577.30994 PYE 2004 (Level: MP-UP)
• Sheppard, Anna 2000, Animal babies, (Let's look at Australian animals), Echidna, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  Marine animals and even a tadpole are included in this varied collection. Ideal for beginning readers withHhgh resolution and very apt full-page photographs facing a page showing the name of the animal in large dark green print. A simple sentence provides basic information but also includes interesting vocabulary as a small challenge to the young reader.
  591.994 SHE (Level: EC)
• Sheppard, Anna 2000, Animal homes, (Let's look at Australian animals), Echidna, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  The homes featured here range from burrows and caves to coral reefs and trees in tropical forests. Ideal for beginning readers. Well illustrated with simple sentences to provide basic information but also includes interesting vocabulary as a small challenge to the young reader.
  591.994 SHE (Level: EC)
• Silkstone, Barry 2004, Amazing Australian mammals, (Amazing Australian), Heinemann Library, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  After a general introduction on mammals, the text examines some of Australia's more interesting examples. Bilbies, echidnas, flying foxes, hopping mice, koalas, kowaris, platypuses, quolls, sugar gliders, Tasmanian devils, diprotodons, and marsupial moles are covered. Use for Science, Life and Living, Level 2 and Level 3. The large, coloured photographs and well-organised text make this a useful resource for students beginning to learn research skills. Key words are bolded and explained in the glossary. All illustrations are detailed and captioned. Included in each double page spread is some general information about the animal, some interesting facts, a large photograph, and a coloured fact file box with information on status, size, reproduction, habitat and food.
  599.0994 SIL 2004 (Level: LP-MP)
• Slater, Pat; Parish, Steve 200?, Discover & learn about Australian forests and woodlands, (Ark Australia. Habitats & ecosystems; Discover & learn about), Steve Parish, Archerfield, Qld.
  Paperback, 48 p.
  This text on Australia's forests is one of a series on places where plants and animals live in Australia today. Information on the history of Australia's plant and animals life, forest ecology, groups and names used to sort living things, biodiversity, types of forests in Australia and a map showing where they can be found establishes ground for further discussion on specific forest types organised under the headings: warm wet forests, warm wet and dry forests, cool wet forests, tough-leafed forests, and other forests types. The text concludes with useful information on parasites and predators, fungi, flowers and fruit, ecological interactions, forest food chains, fire and forests and humans and forests. The inclusion of facts 'n' figure files, captions, full-page maps and vibrant colour photographs enhance the quality of the text. The clearly presented information would be suitable for discussions on Environments are Dynamic and Have Living and Non-Living Components, Level 1.3, Level 2.3, Level 3.3 and level 4.3 in the Life and Living strand of Science.
  577.30994 SLA 2003 (Level: MP-UP)
• The Wiggles wiggly safari scrapbook 2002, ABC books, Sydney.
  Paperback, 32 p.
  This 'scrapbook' of the Wiggles exploring natural Australian habitats helps foster an enquiry approach to learning about the environment. Bright photographs, lively graphics and appropriate pitching of content make this a useful resource for Level 1 Place and Space or Life and Living. The material suggests that a carefully planned process has been followed in preparing for the 'safari'. It subtly identifies the use of the senses in making observations and considers what tools will be used to compile the scrapbook. The popular characters each identify a topic that they would like to find out more about before setting out. Each double page spread covers a topic whether it be a particular animal, the smells or sounds of the wild or what can or can't be touched. Children will be stimulated to discuss their own experiences and observations as well phrased questions and comments draw them into the visual material. The size of the scrapbook makes it appropriate for sharing with whole class or groups. This could be used as an exemplar for a class scrapbook.
  591.994 WIG (Level: EC-LP)

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Birds

• Boyce, Peta; Ellison, Lyn 2000, Friends with feathers, (Wild about you), Magpie Art Prints, Maudsland, Qld.
  80 p.
  This is a delightful collection of true stories about Australian native birds, written and illustrated by wildlife carers and artists. As rescued birds are prepared for return to the wild, they become temporary and much-loved members of their respective families. The illustrations are superb. Styles, Maggie, UFO, Drongo, Uncle Fester and Hi-Me are unforgettable birds with effervescent personalities and endearing ways. Fortunately there is no attempt to anthropomorphise these birds; they are still wild and meant to be returned to the wild. Amusing, poignant and informative, these well-written stories will appeal to bird lovers as well as to students who like to read non-fiction. Full page coloured plates and black-and-white sketches illustrate the stories. The striking pictures are also useful for identification. The stories about rescued birds and animals introduce native species to children in an informative and entertaining way. Details on behaviour, diet and habitats are included. Could be used in the Science strand 'Life and living' to initiate discussions on wildlife conservation or in English to provide reading material for students who prefer to read non-fiction.
  639.9 BOY 2000 (Level: UP-US)
• Kaplan, Gisela 2003, Famous Australian birds, Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest, N.S.W.
  Hardcover, 48 p.
  This attractive and very useful resource provides insightful information on some of Australia's unique and well-known birds including kookaburras, magpies, sulphur-crested cockatoos, lyrebirds, emus, eastern rosellas, tawny frogmouths and wedge-tailed eagles. Well organised with clear headings, informative paragraphs cover many aspects about the birdlife: where they live, how they hunt and fight, breeding and parenting, and how they relate to humans, amongst others. The uncluttered and accessible information on each bird is illustrated using large up-close and glossy photographs that are captioned with short paragraphs of supporting information. This book could be used broadly across Level One, Level Two, and Level Three of the Life and Living strand of Science. The inclusion of a list of amazing abilities of birds, a table of bird facts at-a-glance, a glossary and an index add to the quality of this resource.
  598.0994 KAP 2003 (Level: MP-UP)
• Matingali Napanangka Mudgedell 2002, The cocky, the crow and the hawk, (Dreaming narrative), Working Title, Kingswood, SA.
  Paperback, 32 p.
  This dreaming narrative is a 'creation story' that tells how the crow, cockatoo and the whistling kite got their colours. In the dreaming, the three birds shared what they hunted and gathered, but not fairly, which one day caused the cocky and crow to argue round a campfire. Being tussled into the campfire's coals and ashes changed the birds' colours forever. This narrative describes a story related to indigenous beliefs and informs readers on the diets of three Australian birds. The text is beautifully supported by bold and colourful illustrations painted by children from the community of Wirrimanu in Western Australia. The inclusion of a map that locates the origin of the story, a photograph of the author, and background notes on Dream narratives enhance the educational value of this text. Use for Level 2, Constructions of Identities concepts for the Culture and Identity strand of Studies of Society and Environment.
  298 MUD 2002 (Level: LP)
• Morris, Jill; Gall, Heather (illus) 2003, Silly baby magpie!, Greater Glider, Maleny, Qld.
  Paperback, 30 p.
  This tale of Silly Baby Magpie is told using rhyming conversation, with baby magpie's comments in italics. After hatching from his egg, baby magpie has a lot to learn about: feeding, flight, finding food, playing, grooming, balancing sharing habitats, threats caused by predators and humans, singing beautiful warbles and yodels, and mating. The story is supported by factual information framed in coloured boxed in the bottom right corner of each page. The text cleverly combines fiction and non-fiction and could be used for a variety of activities that differentiate between features of stories and non-fiction text. This book could be incorporated in a study on native Australian animals that addresses Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 statements of the Life and Living strand of Science. A coded pencil illustration of Australian animals is a useful adjunct. Contains factual information on magpies and their song.
  A821 MOR (Level: LP)
• Parish, Steve; Slater 1995, Pat, Say hello cockatoo, (Steve Parish say hello collection), Steve Parish, Fortitude Valley, Qld.
  Paperback, 32 p.
  This is a photograph study of members of the parrot family including sulphur crested, gang-gang and black cockatoos, galahs, eclectics and king parrots, corellas, rosellas and lorikeets. This is a sturdy, colourful little paperback picture book with covers shaped at the top like the heads of the subjects. The text is very simple, telling in short sentences the main features of the creature's life. However, the main source of interest and information is the high quality photographs, which capture each subject in many situations and poses, ideal for deducing details from visual clues. The books could be used by children with minimal reading skills for research into the basics of each animal, e.g. appearance; habits; food; habitat. The young animal is usually pictured.
  598.71 PAR (Level: EC)
• Sheppard, Barrie 1999, Birds, (Australian animals), Heinemann Library, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  32 p.
  After discussing different types of birds such as ratites and raptors, the book shows a good range from the pelicans and penguins to the lyrebird and wedgetailed eagle. The text of this attractive series is organised under useful subheadings giving a general description of each of the twelve species featured, its food, shelter or habitat, reproduction and/or its relationships with people, e.g. venomous animals; survival. A larger classification table places the species within the whole animal kingdom. A high-quality colour photograph and location map, a table of contents, index, glossary and list of further reading are all included.
  598.0994 SHE (Level: MP-UP)

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Endangered animals

• Keyt, Terry 1998, Australian endangered animals, (Macmillan highlights), Macmillan Education, South Yarra, Vic.
  Hardcover, 64 p.
  This book discusses endangered species, restoration programs and Australian habitats. There are nineteen profiles, each one page in length, of specific endangered creatures, providing information labelled 'Description', 'Distribution', 'Habitat', 'Food', 'Reasons for endangerment' and 'Conservation'. Generously illustrated with colour photographs, the book also contains a list of other endangered species, ideas for student input into solutions, a glossary, index, references and addresses of sources of further information. Useful for the 'Time, continuity and change' strand of Studies of Society and Environment and for the 'Life and living' strand of the Science syllabus.
  591.994 KEY (Level: MP-UP)
• Morris, Jill; Burrell, Jane (illus) (Rev. ed) 2003, Golden wombats, Greater Glider, Maleny, Qld.
  Paperback, 24 p.
  Full-page illustrations beautifully and accurately portray this unique Australian marsupial 'only found on Flinders Island in Bass Strait between mainland Australia and Tasmania'. The author's purpose is to raise an awareness of the need to protect a species that could end up in danger of extinction due to the actions of mankind wanting to protect pastures for sheep. Subtopics include: a story of the death of a wombat, one person's excuse for shooting a wombat, the mystery of their unusual golden colour, why they cross sandy beaches, the history of the Bass Strait wombats, a blueprint for a wombat, types of wombats and their distribution, an interview with a 'surrogate mother' of a wombat, and searching for Golden Wombats. Each of the subtopics is told using a different literary or non-literary genre. The inclusion of maps, diagrams and facts enhance the quality of the text. This text could be used for discussions on distinguishing features of a small selection of genres and for preparatory activities for information report writing for the Year Two Diagnostic writing test. Children could use the topic for creating a multimedia presentation on an Australian animal, similar to what is required for Rich Task #2, Multimedia Presentation on an Endangered Plant or Animal.
  599.2 MOR 2003 (Level: LP-MP)
• Pyers, Greg 2000, Endangered animals of Australia's coasts and oceans, (Endangered animals), Echidna Books, Abbotsford, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  This book looks at some endangered animals of the coast and oceans including the southern bluefin tuna and the green turtle, as well as issues like overfishing and plastic pollution. The simply written text contains a wealth of carefully researched information and includes a definition of extinct, endangered and vulnerable animals, as well as a description of ecosystems, including the changes and threats they face and the steps taken to redress the problems. Eight specific endangered animals are then examined. Finally, there are suggestions for action, websites of relevant organisations, a list of threatened animals and a glossary. Supports the 'Place and Space' strand of Studies of Society and Environment.
  591.680994 PYE 2000 (Level: MP-UP)
• Pyers, Greg 2000, Endangered animals of Australia's desert, (Endangered animals), Echidna books, Abbotsford, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  This book looks at some endangered desert animals including the bilby and the mala, and discusses the role played by climate in breeding and life-cycle patterns. The simply written text contains a wealth of carefully researched information. Finally, there are suggestions for action, web sites of relevant organisations, a list of threatened animals and a glossary. Supports the 'Place and Space' strand of Studies of Society and Environment.
  591.680994 PYE (Level: MP-UP)
• Pyers, Greg 2000, Endangered animals of Australia's forests, (Endangered animals), Echidna books, Abbotsford, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  Looks at endangered forest animals including the numbat and the regent honeyeater, and emphasises the importance of old growth forests as animal habitats. The simply written text contains a wealth of carefully researched information. There are suggestions for action, web sites of relevant organisations, a list of threatened animals and a glossary. Supports the 'Place and Space' strand of Studies of Society and Environment.
  591.680994 PYE (Level: MP-UP)
• Pyers, Greg 2000, Endangered animals of Australia's wetlands and grasslands, (Endangered animals), Echidna books, Abbotsford, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  This book looks at endangered animals of the wetlands and grasslands including the Baw Baw frog and the Mary River cod, and discusses issues like introduced species and the Ramsar Convention. The simply written stext contains a wealth of carefully researched information. Finally, there are suggestions for action, web sites of relevant organisations, a list of threatened animals and a glossary. Supports the 'Place and Space' strand of Studies of Society and Environment.
  591.680994 PYE (Level: MP-UP)
• Roc, Margaret; Hawke, Kathleen 2006, Australia's critically endangered animals, (Australian library), Heinemann Library, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  This book explains the criteria used to label animals as critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable, before looking specifically at the 14 Australian animals identified as critically endangered. With Internet links included on each page, students will find this material useful for research projects on the topic in Science and/or Studies of Society and Environment.
  The 'Australian library' series provides simple reference material about Australia with each title focussing on a particular aspect of the country. The series covers a broad range of topics including plants and animals, inventions, government and disasters. An initial introduction provides context for the following pages that focus on specific items. Information is mostly delivered through text, with text boxes offering interesting related facts. A photograph of each item is included and glossary items are bolded in the text.
  Contents include: Australian animals in danger -- Changing environments -- Grey nurse shark -- Speartooth shark -- Western swamp tortoise -- Round Island petrel & herald petrel -- Yellow chat -- Scrubtit -- Spotted quail-thrush -- Bare-rumped sheathtail bat -- Gilbert's poteroo -- Lord Howe Island phasmid -- Golden sun moth -- Boggomoss snail (Dawson Valley snail ) & Mitchell's rainforest snail -- The future for Australia's critically endangered animals.
  C 591.680994 ROC 2006 (Level: MP-UP)
• Wilkinson, Rick 2002, Endangered!: working to save animals at risk, Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest, N.S.W.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  This colourful resource offers up-to-date information on programmes to save endangered species, in particular those native to Australia. It provides a positive perspective to work being done to preserve habitats and provide safe havens. Useful for Level 4, Place and Place Strand. The focus is on the initiatives of Australian zoos in finding practical solutions to breeding in captivity or tracking animals in the wild to learn about their needs and protect their habitats. Much of the information is provided through the direct quotes of zoo staff, which makes the text very readable. The discoveries of Phasmids and Mountain Pygmy-Possums, previously thought extinct, are documented providing an air of excitement to the topic. 'Did you know?' sections provide interesting facts in dot point format. Coloured text boxes contain examples of specific programmes. Plenty of clearly reproduced photographs show the animals, and zoo staff at work. Coloured print and bright backgrounds break the text into manageable sections but may inhibit readers with visual discrimination problems. A contents page, glossary and index are included. Shortlisted for Eve Pownall Award 2003.
  591.68 WIL (Level: UP-LS)

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Insects, frogs and reptiles

• Ehmann, Harald; Tyler, Michael J 1996, Webster's reptiles & frogs of Australia [Computer Software], Webster, Frenchs Forest, N.S.W.
  System requirements: Windows 3.1; Windows 95; CD-ROM.
  This encyclopedic reference work includes graphics, videos, cross-referenced text, search facility, maps and games, along with a project-preparation facility and a variety of ways of viewing information. Superb pictures and extensive, up-to-date information are easily accessed through an impressive line-up of options. The search facility enables finding a creature even when the name is unknown, through 'custom' search, where locality may be drawn on the given map. Data on each specimen includes a distribution map which may be overlaid by rainfall, climate, drainage or vegetation change maps. A 'Facts in brief' screen is included for each entry, and related reading is indicated. Scientific terms are glossaried through hypertext. The help pages are worthwhile studying before using the program as the information provided is surprising in its scope and detail. This resource is ideal for project work and identification of sighted species, as well as presentation of information to small classroom groups.
  CS 597.9 EHM IBM (Level: MP-US)
• Inserra, Rose; Madder, Sharyn (illus) 1995, Web, (Small worlds), CIS Pubishers, Carlton, Vic.
  Hardcover, 16 p.
  A spider weaves a web and catches a fly which is released inadvertently by a passing boy. After further damage to the web, the spider rebuilds, ready to catch food next time. This nature series for beginning readers consists of large pictures in soft pastels, with a line or two of simple text across the bottom of each. The sentences connect into a slight story about the topic. The books are suitable to support Life topics in the Science curriculum as well as for general reading.
  595.4 INS (Level: EC)
• Morris, Jill; Tracey, Lynne (illus) 1995, Australian frogs: amazing amphibians, Greater Glider, Maleny, Qld.
  Paperback, 48 p.
  Following a detailed introduction, which includes general data on frog classification, identification, life-cycle and diet, a selection of Australian frogs is dealt with in a series of double-spreads. Highly-coloured illustrations extend the text and depict each frog in its natural habitat, surrounded by predators, co-existent creatures and food sources. A location map is included. The text for each frog establishes name derivation, habitat, physical appearance, diet, predators and calls. A chart of comparative sizes, a glossary, a list of reference books and an index of all species illustrated or referred to complete the book. With teacher direction the illustrations could be useful with Years 1 and 2 studying the Science unit, Life, as the detail shown in the habitat illustrations could lead to further discussion.
  597.8 MOR (Level: EC-LS)
• Parker, Steve; Savage, Ann (illus) 1993, Revolting reptiles, Koala books, Redfern, N.S.W.
  Paperback, 38 p.
  The reptiles included in this book are not necessarily revolting or to be feared. They are simply true to their own reptilian natures and should be accepted as such. The book provides examples of the four main reptile groups - crocodiles, lizards, snakes and chelonians or turtle group which includes tortoises and terrapins. The coverage is world wide including Australia. Each double opening presents a particular species. There is a brief preliminary statement and the remainder of the information is delivered in captions to the coloured photographs or drawings of the animals. The simple direct text is set in clear typefaces of good size.
  597.9 PAR (Level: MP-LS)
• Pearson, Jane 1999, Reptiles, (Australian animals), Heinemann Library, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  From the salt-water crocodile and the venomous taipan to the harmless velvet gecko and blue-tongued skink, as well as the green turtle and the thorny devil, a wide variety of reptiles are studied here. The text is organised under useful subheadings giving a general description of each of the twelve species featured, its food, shelter or habitat, reproduction and/or its relationships with people, e.g. venomous animals; survival. A larger classification table places the species within the whole animal kingdom. A high-quality colour photograph and location map, a table of contents, index, glossary and lists of further reading are all included.
  597.90994 PEA (Level: MP-UP)
• Pyers, Greg 2002, Redback spider, (Life cycles of Australian animals), Echidna, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  After introducing the redback spider, further discussion on the redback includes: habitat; catching prey; egg sacks and egg laying; predators; hatching of spiderlings; spiderlings leaving the nest; protection from predators; male and female redbacks; threats to man. Interesting facts are highlighted and subtopics are set out in the same design across each double page spread. Repeated at the bottom of each page, horizontal panels of captioned illustrations show lifecycle progression. The depth of elaboration on the topic and the complexity of the text would suit newly established independent readers learning to gather information from non-fiction texts. A summary of the important facts mentioned throughout the text, a glossary of the highlighted terms within the text, further information sources on the text's topic and an index are included in each volume. The content would be relevant to children wanting to write a basic information report or description on the specific animal.
  595.4 PYE (Level: LP-MP)
• Sheppard, Barrie 1999, Frogs and fish, (Australian animals), Heinemann Library, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  Distinctions are drawn here between frogs as amphibians and fish as permanent water dwellers. The range covers six types of frogs and both marine and fresh water animals among the six fish. The text is organised under useful subheadings giving a general description of each of the twelve species featured, its food, shelter or habitat, reproduction and/or its relationships with people, e.g. venomous animals; survival. A larger classification table places the species within the whole animal kingdom. A high-quality colour photograph and location map, a table of contents, index, glossary and a list of further reading are all included.
  597.0994 SHE (Level: LS)
• Slater, Pat; Parish, Steve 1997, Amazing facts about Australian frogs & reptiles, (Discover and learn), Steve Parish, Fortitude Valley, Qld.
  Paperback, 80 p.
  This comprehensive overview of species within the major groups looks first at frog families such as tree frogs, the southern frogs ie. those found only in the Southern Hemisphere, narrow mouthed frogs, a true frog and the cane toad. Four groups of reptiles are discussed in some detail - marine and freshwater turtles; crocodilia, lizards and snakes. A timeline shows their evolution. Information is given for treatment of snakebite. A final section deals with conservation of reptiles and their habitats. There is tight integration between the lucid explanatory text and the extensive illustration featuring fine photography. Colour photographs are supported by models, maps and diagrams all suitably captioned. The format is attractive and user-friendly. Coloured strips down the outer margins of the pages list relevant key facts. Has applications across upper primary and lower secondary science.
  597.6 SLA (Level: MP-LS)
• Stevens, Helen 2000, Reptiles, (Endangered Australian animals), Macmillan Education, South Yarra, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  The reptiles examined here range from the smallest tortoise, the Western Swamp Tortoise which aestivates in the hot dry W.A. summer waiting for the winter rains, to the giant loggerhead turtle of Northern Australia and the striped legless lizard of Southern Australia. There is an error on p.4. Pygmy Blue-tongue lizards do not lay eggs as stated. On p.20 it is correctly stated that they give birth to live offspring. An excellent introduction defines terms, asks questions and gives answers including causes of and graded stages of endangerment. A further list of endangered animals, location maps, a glossary, table of contents and index are included.
  597.9 STE (Level: MP-UP)
• Thomas, Ron 1990, Spiders, Macmillan, South Yarra, Vic.
  30 p.
  Relevant to lower and middle primary Science 'Life' topics.
  595.4 THO (Level: EC-UP)
• Thomas, Ron 2002, Spiders: and other arachnids, (Australia's dangerous animals), Heinemann library, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  This information text is an excellent resource for students researching dangerous spiders and other arachnids of Australia. Readers will learn about the stings and bites, life cycles, habitats and appearance of Sydney funnel-web spiders, redback spiders, white-tailed spiders, wolf spiders, black house spiders, bird-eating spiders, mouse spiders, paralysis ticks and scorpions. The text begins with a full description, inclusive of a clearly labelled photograph of the main body parts, of the animal group. General information is given on why each animal group is dangerous, where they live, how we can stay safe from them, first aid treatment steps, how to call for help in an emergency and roles within the ecosystem. Captioned, up-close photographs provide an impressive and detailed look at the creatures' intricate body structures.
  595.4 THO (Level: MP)

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Marine animals

• McClosky, Susan 2001, The remarkable, adaptable turtle, (Celebrate reading: Non-fiction), Longman, Sydney.
  Paperback, 24 p.
  Full of interesting facts about a large variety of turtles, this text could be used for the study of information report and description writing. The introduction contains captioned photographs of different species of turtles. The photographs present a fascinating up-close view of turtles. The text focuses on: turtle history, physical features, protection, habitat, reptiles, hibernation, adaptations, swimming skills, reproduction, diet and endangered species. The simple text structure would make this an excellent resource for children reading independently in Years 2 and 3. The end page has 'thinking back' comprehension questions that could be used for research activities for the whole class, pairs or individuals.
  597.92 MACC (Level: LP)
• Parish, Steve 1998, Australian sea life, (Nature kids), Steve Parish, Fortitude Valley, Qld.
  Paperback, 47 p.
  A high proportion of the animals featured here are found only on the Great Barrier Reef. Exceptions are whales, fairy penguins and dolphins. Venomous fish are included, though the cone shell shown under 'Molluscs' is not identified as such. The numerous, large high-quality colour photographs make access to information easy for less-able readers and also for pre-readers. The simple text, set in large typeface in small blocks, extends that knowledge.
  591.770994 PAR (Level: EC-UP)
• Parish, Steve; Lever, Melanie E; Lovett, Kate et al. 1998, Dolphins, (My first picture book; Nature kids), Steve Parish, Archerfield, Qld.
  Paperback, 16 p.
  A number of underwater photographs are included in this study of dolphins. Their social habits and reproduction are included as well as the relationships between dolphins and humans. Combines superb colour photography with a text of simple sentences set in large typeface, describing the animal's characteristics, habits and habitat. The vocabulary used requires the skills of confident younger readers.
  599.53 PAR (Level: EC)
• Pyers, Greg 2000, Endangered animals of Australia's coasts and oceans, (Endangered animal), Echidna Books, Abbotsford, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  This book looks at endangered animals of the coast and oceans including the southern bluefin tuna and the green turtle, as well as issues like overfishing and plastic pollution. The simply written text contains a wealth of carefully researched information. Finally, there are suggestions for action, web sites of relevant organisations, a list of threatened animals and a glossary. Supports the 'Place and Space' strand of Studies of Society and Environment.
  591.680994 PYE (Level: MP-UP)
• Pyers, Greg 2002, Green turtle, (Life cycles of Australian animals), Echidna, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  After introducing the green turtle as a mysterious sea-living reptile, further discussion on turtles includes: egg laying; nest preparation; disguising the nest; predators of the turtle eggs; young fending for themselves; vulnerability of the hatchlings; predators of hatchlings; survival of hatchlings at sea; growth from hatchling to adult. Interesting facts are highlighted and subtopics are set out in the same design across each double page spread. Repeated at the bottom of each page, horizontal panels of captioned illustrations show lifecycle progression. The depth of elaboration on the topic and the complexity of the text would suit newly established independent readers learning to gather information from non-fiction texts. The content would be relevant to children wanting to write a basic information report or description on the specific animal.
  597.92 PYE (Level: LP-MP)
• Slater, Pat; Parish, Steve 1997, Amazing facts about Australian marine life, (Discover & learn), Steve Parish, Fortitude Valley, Qld.
  Paperback, 80 p.
  This liberally illustrated book begins with an explanation of zoological classification and an annotated taxonomy of marine life. A timeline showing the evolution of marine life forms, marine habitats and food chains follow. The book then progresses from the simpler forms of marine life such as algae, seagrasses and sponges up through the taxonomy to fishes, reptiles, birds and mammals. There is tight integration between the lucid explanatory texts and the extensive illustration featuring fine photography. Technical terms marked with an asterisk are explained in the glossary. Colour photographs are supported by models, maps and diagrams all suitably captioned. The format is attractive and user-friendly. Coloured strips down the outer margins of the pages list relevant key facts. Has application across upper primary and lower secondary science.
  591.92 PAR (Level: MP-LS)
• Thomas, Ron 2002, Marine animals, (Australia's dangerous animals), Heinemann library, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  This information text is an excellent resource for students researching dangerous marine animals of Australia. Readers will learn about the stings and bites, life cycles, habitats and appearance of sharks, stonefish, box jellyfish, pufferfish, blue-ringed octopuses, Pacific man-of-war, sea snakes and cone shells. Stingrays, fire worms and Port Jackson sharks are discussed briefly. The text begins with a full description, inclusive of a clearly labelled photograph of the main body parts, of each animal group. General information is given on why different species in the animal group are dangerous, where they live, how we can stay safe from them, first aid treatment steps, how to call for help in an emergency and roles within the ecosystem. Captioned, up-close photographs provide an impressive and detailed look at the creatures' intricate body structures. Fact boxes, first aid hints, mini distribution maps, highlighted glossary words, a list of other books and websites for research and an index enhance appeal.
  591.77 THO (Level: MP)

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Mammals and Marsupials

• Brice, Jo; Gregory, Rogers (illus) 2000, The platypus: what is it?, (Puffin books), Penguin, Ringwood, Vic.
  Paperback, 28 p.
  In this attractively illustrated book, Australia's oddest animal is described. Its body structure, habitat, food, reproduction, and the dangers it faces all come under scrutiny. The book is introduced by an Aboriginal creation story (unacknowledged as such) and concludes with a list of wildlife friendly strategies, and book and website suggestions for further study. It would support the Life and Living component of the Science syllabus.
  599.2 BRI (Level: MP-UP)
• Churchill, Vicki; Fuge, Charles 2001, Sometimes I like to curl up in a ball, David & Charles Children's, London.
  Paperback, 20 p.
  Wombat can create a great disturbance. He likes to scream and shout, make a muddy mess, pretend to be still as a tree and pull funny faces, but best of all, he loves to curl up in a ball. A beautifully crafted and cheery book that is sure to get a great laugh out of its intended audience. Readers will share the joyous world of wombat and his friends, and enjoy the wonderful carefree action that helps bring the adorable characters to life. The illustrations are grand and colourful, and the expressions on the faces of wombat and his friends will delight and entertain as they help deliver the intended humour throughout the story. This text could be used in an interactive manner for movement activities, or as a bedtime story for settling children getting ready for bed.
  A821.3 CHU (Level: P-LP)
• Gilbert, Kevin; Williams, Eleanor (illus) 1994, Me and Mary kangaroo, Viking, Ringwood, Vic.
  Hardcover, 54 p.
  This is the delightful first person recount of a mischievous young Aboriginal boy growing up along the Lachlan River. It is the story of 'Darlin' the kangaroo raised with his family after it was found orphaned in the bush. In Gilberts' poetic prose, the richly descriptive language is full of lively rhythms and inventive usage. It just begs to be read aloud. It captures perfectly the wonderfully close relationship between Gilbert and his pet. The book also provides a look at time in the past for younger children and a trip down memory lane for adults to those carefree childhood days. The ending is also a poignant reminder that things never stay the same and that wild things belong in the wild. Eleanor Williams' expressive deep brown photographs add charm to this evocative story.
  808.88 GIL (Level: MP-LS)
• McAuley, Stephen 1999, Syd's platypus book, Scholastic, Sydney, NSW.
  Paperback, 32 p.
  This attractive and very informative book supplies ideal factual information to balance the fiction works on one of the Olympic mascots. It is also useful for general science classes. The continuous text, which varies between upper & middle primary reading levels, could also be used with younger children. It describes the animal's characteristics and behaviour, its life cycle and habitat in detail. Numerous colour photographs illustrate the text while the cartoon character Syd, the mascot, adds a light touch.
  599.2 MACA (Level: EC-UP)
• Morris, Jill; Muir, Lynne (illus); Horsup, Alan (ed) 1998, Australian kangaroos: magnificent macropods, Greater Glider Press, Maleny, Qld.
  Paperback, 48 p.
  Members of the kangaroo family are described through prose, verse and illustration. Following an introduction that discusses features the macropods have in common, and how they hop, seventeen representatives are studied more closely, with a comparative sizes chart, reading references, glossary and index completing the book. The red kangaroo and the eastern grey; Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo; common wallaroo; seven wallabies; quokka; musky rat-kangaroo; potoroo; two bettongs; and a pademelon are individually treated, with a page of simple informative text opposite a detailed, framed illustration which includes elements of each creature's habitat; colourfully, but rather stiffly depicted. Within the frame of the informative text is placed a map of Australia indicating the macropod's current range and lists of the flora and fauna which are included in the related picture.
  599.2 MOR (Level: MP-US)
• Morris, Jill; Burrell, Jane (illus) (Rev. ed) 2003, Golden wombats, Greater Glider, Maleny, Qld.
  Paperback, 24 p.
  Full-page illustrations beautifully and accurately portray this unique Australian marsupial 'only found on Flinders Island in Bass Strait between mainland Australia and Tasmania'. The author's purpose is to raise an awareness of the need to protect a species that could end up in danger of extinction due to the actions of mankind wanting to protect pastures for sheep. Subtopics include: a story of the death of a wombat, one persons excuse for shooting a wombat, the mystery of their unusual golden colour, why they cross sandy beaches, the history of the Bass Strait wombats, a blueprint for a wombat, types of wombats and their distribution, an interview with a 'surrogate mother' of a wombat, and searching for Golden Wombats. The inclusion of maps, diagrams and facts enhance the quality of the text. This text could be used for discussions on distinguishing features of a small selection of genres and for preparatory activities for information report writing for the Year Two Diagnostic writing test. Children could use the topic for creating a multimedia presentation on an Australian animal, similar to what's required for Rich Task #2, Multimedia Presentation on an Endangered Plant or Animal.
  599.2 MOR 2003 (Level: LP-MP)
• Parish, Steve (illus); Lever, Melanie E.; Lovett, Kate; Slater, Pat 1998, Kangaroos, (My first picture book; Nature kids), Steve Parish, Archerfield, Qld.
  Paperback, 16 p.
  This book on kangaroos also includes their relatives the wallabies, wallaroos, bettongs, quokkas, potoroos and tree-kangaroos. Kangaroo joeys are shown in the pouch and drinking from their mothers. Both red and grey kangaroos are shown. Combines superb colour photography with a text of simple sentences set in large typeface, describing the animal's characteristics, habits and habitat. The vocabulary used requires the skills of confident younger readers.
  599.2 PAR (Level: EC)
• Pearson, Jane 1999, Mammals, (Australian animals), Heinemann Library, Port Melbourne, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  Distinctions are drawn here between marsupials, monotremes and also placental mammals. The animals range from nocturnals such as the bilby and the flying fox, and from the koala and wombat to the fur seal and the kangaroo. The text is organised under useful subheadings giving a general description of each of the species featured, its food, shelter or habitat, reproduction and/or its relationships with people, e.g. venomous animals; survival. A larger classification table places the species within the whole animal kingdom. A high-quality colour photograph and location map, a table of contents, index, glossary and a list of further reading are all included.
  599.0994 PEA (Level: MP-UP)
• Slater, Pat; Parish, Steve 1997, Amazing facts about Australian mammals, (Discover and learn), Steve Parish, Fortitude Valley, Qld.
  Paperback, 80 p.
  This broad based study of native mammals examines the two species of monotremes, eighteen families of marsupials from tiny dasyurids to red kangaroos and nine families of placental mammals whose species range from bats and flying foxes and native rodents to marine mammals such as dolphins and whales and finally, the dingo. A page of key points on conservation of Australia's mammals concludes this well presented informative book. There is tight integration between the lucid explanatory texts and the extensive illustration featuring fine photography. The format is attractive and user-friendly. Has applications across upper primary and lower secondary science.
  599.0994 SLA (Level: MP-LS)
• Stewart, Robin & Ashby, Yvonne (illus) 2002, Wombat, (Solo bush babies), Omnibus, Norwood, S.A.
  Paperback, 58 p.
  After Humphrey the wombat is orphaned when his mother is hit by a milk tanker, he is rescued by Brodie's Gran, who runs a wildlife shelter in her home. This is the account of how Humphrey was cared for, his special needs and his survival in a bushfire later. Although the book is fictionalised by its storyline, it is really a very useful information text packed full of facts. Attractively illustrated in crayon and watercolour, it also has a table of contents, index, list of useful addresses and a glossary.
  599.2 STE (Level: LP-MP)

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Prehistoric animals

• Breidahl, Harry 2002, Cretaceous times, (Wildlife of ancient Australia), Macmillan Education, South Yarra, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  After introducing the Cretaceous period as the time in which dinosaurs roamed, this text provides short summaries of information about an Australian allosaur, giant sauropods, Muttaburrasaurus: a plant eater, hypsilophodonts, ceratopsians, ankylosaurs, stegosaurs, pterosaurs and Ausktribosphenos: a very small early Australian mammal. Each animal is well portrayed in life-like illustrations. Additional information supports the main text and is presented in fact-files, pronunciation guides, 'dig deeper' boxes of information, illustration captions, and geological timescales. Quality features in each text include: information on an Australian animal of today and its links to the past, scientists' codes and a code breaker for working out the Greek and Latin codes of animal names, a map of the world as it would have been during the ancient period or epoch and comprehensive geological timescales of the earth's history. Presents a high interest topic for students in years three and four studying the purpose and structure of information texts and for developing an understanding of the ways in which scientific information can be presented when classifying animals. Students will need teacher support when decoding wildlife names and comprehending timeframes.
  560 BRE (Level: LP-MP)
• Breidahl, Harry 2002, Pleistocene times, (Wildlife of ancient Australia), Macmillan Education, South Yarra, Vic.
  Hardcover, 32 p.
  After introducing ancient giant marsupials of the Quaternary period of the Cainozoic era, this text provides short summaries of information about Diprotodon: the biggest marsupial ever, Zygomaturus: a forest giant, Procoptodon: a giant kangaroo, Genyornis: the last thunder bird, Thylacoleo: the last marsupial lion, Megalania: a huge reptile and Wonambi: a large non-poisonous snake. Each animal is well portrayed in life-like illustrations. Additional information supports the main text and is presented in fact-files, pronunciation guides, 'dig deeper' boxes of information, illustration captions, and geological timescales. Presents a high interest topic for students in years three and four studying the purpose and structure of information texts and for developing an understanding of the ways in which scientific information can be presented when classifying animals. Students will need teacher support when decoding wildlife names and comprehending timeframes.
  560 BRE (Level: LP-MP)

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