Prairie dogs are often pictured kissing. They're actually touching teeth. It's how they recognize each other. These amazing animals also have a sophisticated kind of language. Unfortunately, intelligence isn't enough to save the five species of prairie dogs from extinction. Readers will find out why prairie dogs are disappearing and what they can do to help.

The family had no idea that adopting a prairie dog could result in contracting a life-threatening illness. Schyan Kautzer and her parents want a new pet, so they adopt a prarie dog. But one day Schyan gets a fever, and her body is suddenly covered with sores. The only clue to her illness is a bite from her pet prairie dog. High-interest topics, real stories, engaging design and astonishing photos are the building blocks of the XBooks, a new series of books designed to engage and motivate reluctant and enthusiastic readers alike. How can a bite from a pet prairie dog cause a life-threatening illness? Where does the guinea worm, a parasite that lives under human skin, come from? How can a virus that attacks the brain be related to birds dropping dead at the zoo? With topics based in science, these action-packed books will help students unlock the power and pleasure of reading... and always ask for more!

The authors synthesize the results of their long-running study of Gunnison’s prairie dogs (Cynomys gunnisoni), one of the keystone species of the short-grass prairie ecosystem. By examining the complex factors behind prairie dog decline, we can begin to understand the problems inherent in our adversarial relationship with the natural world.

Provides basic information about prairie dogs, including habitat, behavior, and anatomy.

Pierre used to be a show dog. Now he travels with three new friends, answering to no humans, enjoying a free and easy life, trying to stay out of trouble. But trouble comes looking for him, and before long Pierre and his friends are head-to-head with the bull dogs.

Learn to communicate with your dog—using their language “Good reading for dog lovers and an immensely useful manual for dog owners.”—The Washington Post An Applied Animal Behaviorist and dog trainer with more than twenty years’ experience, Dr. Patricia McConnell reveals a revolutionary new perspective on our relationship with dogs—sharing insights on how “man’s best friend” might interpret our behavior, as well as essential advice on how to interact with our four-legged friends in ways that bring out the best in them. After all, humans and dogs are two entirely different species, each shaped by its individual evolutionary heritage. Quite simply, humans are primates and dogs are canids (as are wolves, coyotes, and foxes). Since we each speak a different native tongue, a lot gets lost in the translation. This marvelous guide demonstrates how even the slightest changes in our voices and in the ways we stand can help dogs understand what we want. Inside you will discover: • How you can get your dog to come when called by acting less like a primate and more like a dog • Why the advice to “get dominance” over your dog can cause problems • Why “rough and tumble primate play” can lead to trouble—and how to play with your dog in ways that are fun and keep him out of mischief • How dogs and humans share personality types—and why most dogs want to live with benevolent leaders rather than “alpha wanna-bes!” Fascinating, insightful, and compelling, The Other End of the Leash is a book that strives to help you connect with your dog in a completely new way—so as to enrich that most rewarding of relationships.

A condor is an incredible bird. With a wingspan of 10 feet, it seems too large to fly. And yet, winds carry it so efficiently that it may only need to flap once an hour. Sadly, the world came very close to losing the California condor. At one point, only 30 were left. Readers of this book will find out why these birds were so close to extinction and what was done to bring them back. Beautiful photographs show these birds of prey as the majestic animals they are.