2021-07-28
McConnell compares and contrasts the different species of otters (12 river and one sea) found around the world.
After giving basic facts about mustelids, the family to which otters belong, the author presents either side-by-side or alternating pages that look at river otters versus their ocean-dwelling cousins. This can sometimes lead to more questions than answers, though. For example, on a page that describes how each spends the majority of their day (marking territory and grooming fur, respectively), readers may wonder if sea otters also have scent glands and if river otters spend any time grooming their fur. And on the page about otter teeth, readers may mistakenly believe that sea otters have no sharp teeth and be left wondering if river otters have molars, issues compounded by the inset photos that show a river otter’s teeth from the front and a sea otter’s bottom jaw from above. Other information presented looks at habitat, facial whiskers and catching prey, eating habits, fur, socializing, and raising young. Backmatter includes enrichment activities looking at various otters’ sizes and weights, adaptations, fun facts, and otters in zoos and aquariums. (Disturbingly, one fun fact asks readers, “How long can you hold your breath?”) As is consistent with this series, the photos are the stars, showcasing the similarities and differences among these 13 adorable species. A Spanish edition publishes simultaneously, as does (in both English and Spanish) a similar title on penguins, by Cher Vatalaro.
An adequate resource for entertainment, information, research, and compare/contrast reports. (Nonfiction. 4-9)
