THE BOOK OF NORTH AMERICAN OWLS

This striking companion volume to the author's The Book of Eagles (1989) describes the 21 species of owls found in North America. As did the former title, this one combines a lucid text with meticulous attention to detail and stunning full-color illustrations for a masterful blend of science and art. The author begins with a discussion of what makes an owl, describes the specialized anatomy of this predator, its courtship and nesting behavior, the raising of owlets, and its endangered status. She then provides a glossary of all North American species including the scientific name, description, wingspan, range, common call, preferred diet, nesting requirements, number and size of eggs laid, time of incubation and time till owlets fly off. Each description is accompanied by a color drawing of the owl in its habitat, and a map. The title concludes with a listing of owls by family, genus, and species, an extensive bibliography and a thorough index. Sattler, who died in 1992, made an outstanding contribution to science writing for children, and this title adds to that legacy. Highly recommended. (maps, bibliography, index) (Nonfiction. 10+) *justify no*