Most Popular Books by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent

Ever since Earth was formed more than 4.5 billion years ago, the planet has been continuously shaped by dynamic forces. The most significant impact was made by the introduction of life. From the smallest single-cell organism to the most populous cities, living things--especially human beings--have had a profound effect on the planet. As a new millennium begins, conservation efforts are more important than ever for Earth''s survival. Authoritative text and dramatic photographs show how our role in shaping the Earth can be just as significant as the massive eruptions of volcanoes or the shifting of huge tectonic plates. GLOSSARY, INDEX.

Discusses the habits and life cycle of prairie dogs and examines their place in the ecology of the prairie. "Useful and consistently interesting." -- Kirkus Reviews

Tells how a golden retriever is trained as a service dog, to help someone who has trouble moving their arms or legs, and later as a guide dog for a man who cannot see.

Discusses forest fires and the effect that they have on both people and the natural world.

Driven from their packs, two wolves meet, become companions, and form a new pack with their pups.

Celebrates the bond between humans and their canine companions, discussing scientific insights that demonstrate how sharing one''s life with a dog reduces stress, provides companionship, and increases safety.--

Provides a global perspective on environmental issues while demonstrating the concept which encompasses the many forms of life on earth and their interdependence on one another for survival.

A dog''s nose is 300 times more powerful than a human nose, so it''s no wonder that dogs use their incredibly advanced sense of smell to do some very important jobs. Dorothy Hinshaw Patent explores the various ways specific dogs have put their super sniffing ability to use: from bedbug sniffers to explosive detectors to life-saving allergy detectors . . . and more. This dynamic photo-essay includes first-hand accounts from the people who work closely with these amazing dogs.

Describes the physical characteristics, habitats, hunting behaviors, and endangered status of a variety of wild cats around the world.

Discusses recent research on levels of intelligence in both wild and domestic animals.

Far to the north along the Pacific coast of Canada lies an area where abundant rainfall nourishes everything from bright green grasses and colorful wildflowers to ancient, towering cedar, spruce, and sitka trees. This rainforest is the perfect habitat for salmon and a wide variety of birds, insects, and animals, most notably a unique type of black bear called the spirit bear, which is sometimes clothed in creamy white fur and has become legendary among the First Nation people who live in the region. Noted naturalist Dorothy Hinshaw Patent describes the elusive spirit bear and its home, which is in danger of being destroyed by loggers and settlers as they clear-cut the ancient forests for lumber. Every part of the delicate ecosystem is threatened. But steps are now being taken to set aside a protected spirit bear sanctuary--a living museum where people could come and see the spirit bear''s realm. The beautiful, detailed watercolors by Deborah Milton will transport readers to this magnificent yet vanishing region.

Text and accompanying photographs discuss the diversity and adaptability of deer and elk as well as recent conservation efforts.

Yellowstone National Park''s majestic geologic wonders and remarkable wildlife draw millions of visitors each year. But there was a time when these natural treasures were in great danger, all because after years of unrestricted hunting, one key piece of the puzzle had been eliminated—the wolf. Now, more than a decade after scientists realized the wolves'' essential role and returned them to Yellowstone, the park''s natural balance is gradually being restored. The informative dual-level text and spectacular full-color photographs show the wolves in the natural habitat that was almost lost without them. Readers of all ages will be inspired by the delicate natural system that is Yellowstone.

Tells of the transformative period in the early 16th century when the Spaniards introduced horses to the Great Plains, and how horses became, and remain, a key part of the Plains Indians'' culture.

Beavers are dubbed a keystone species for good reason. The dams they build create ponds and other wetlands that are habitat for everything from microscopic life to giant moose. Dorothy Hinshaw Patent''s inviting text introduces readers to the great variety of living things inhabiting beaver ponds, while exploring the pivotal role beavers play in making this diversity possible. Michael Runtz''s breathtaking photographs bring the beauty of these habitats to life, making readers feel as though they are right there beside him on the pond shore. Through AT HOME WITH THE BEAVER: THE STORY OF A KEYSTONE SPECIES, children will discover that by building a dam, beavers have not only created a home for themselves but have also provided a habitat for hundreds if not thousands of other life forms.

Countless herds of majestic buffalo once roamed across the plains and prairies of North America. For at least 10,000 years, the native people hunted the buffalo and depended upon its meat and hide for their survival. But to the Indians, the buffalo was also considered sacred. They saw this abundant, powerful animal as another tribe, one that was closely related to them, and they treated it with great respect and admiration. Here, an award-winning nonfiction team traces the history of this relationship, from its beginnings in prehistory to the present. Deftly weaving social history and science, Dorothy Hinshaw Patent discusses how European settlers slaughtered the buffalo almost to extinction, breaking the back of Indian cultures. And she shows how today, as Indians are reviving their cultures, they are also restoring buffalo herds to the land. Featuring William Munoz’s stunning full-color photographs, supplemented with paintings by well-known artists, this book is an inspiring tale of a successful conservation effort. Author’s note, suggestions for further reading, index.

In times of war, these brave dogs serve their country proudly

"A vivid description--in text and photographs--of the annual gathering of bald eagles in Glacier National Park and of a wildlife research project to study the life cycle of our national bird".--ALA, Booklist. 47 black-and-white photographs.

A fascinating, fact-filled book on endangered gray and red wolves. "Amply illustrated with handsome photographs . . . It may never be possible to reconcile human greed with a harmonious natural ecology, but the respectful account of endangered wolves suggests that the effort is eminently worthwhile".--The Horn Book. Full-color photos.

Humans have relied on the strength, speed, and endurance of the horse for more than nine thousand years, utilizing them for work, warfare, entertainment, and companionship. Throughout history, humans have shown how much they admire and respect these animals through decoration and embellishment. Divided into three sections—Warfare and Hunting, Performance and Competition, and Ceremony and Celebration—this book introduces readers to the many ways humans have used and honored horses. Their decorations highlight how important horses are to various people, from the symbolic paintings that the Plains Indians used to decorate their battle and hunting companions to silks and flowers awarded to thoroughbreds in competition to the colorful, playful costumes adorning the horses that pull painted carts through the streets of Sicily to honor saints. Jeannie Brett’s action-packed illustrations highlight the beauty and care that humans have taken when creating decoration for their horses, incorporating cultural significance, celebratory beauty, and respected ferocity.