In 1979, the African elephant population was 1.3 million. By 1989 that total dropped dramatically to 609,000. During the 1980s, poachers killed some three hundred elephants a day. Although active measures were soon enforced to protect African and Asian elephant populations, the elephant's future is still uncertain. This book traces the efforts of individuals and organisations that confront the international ivory trade and lobby indigenous governments to create protective environments. It also covers: - How elephants live - Ways elephants protect their families - Elephants' astonishingly intricate behaviour - Physiology, life span, diet and more - Firefly Animal Rescue - is a new series of books about endangered and threatened species and what is being done to protect them. It is aimed at readers aged 10 and up with accessible text and colour photographs. Each book introduces readers to a featured animal, explains the threats it is facing, and explores efforts to protect it. Young readers will be inspired by the leading scientists and conservationists who work in the field, in labs and on the public stage. The books conclude with additional resources for those who want to help.

Reviews

Gr 5 Up-These well-written titles introduce endangered or threatened species, describe how and why they are in danger, and explain what efforts are being made to protect them. In each book, a time line of conservation efforts with regard to the creatures' environments, research, and the law is included. Illustrated fast-fact sections provide information on name, size, life span, reproduction, diet, and more. Stunning, full-color photographs bring each species to life and depict a number of individuals in the field and laboratory working to save these animals. Each book also examines what the future looks like (bleak), and includes information on "How You Can Help." This last section lists contact information for conservation clubs and organizations. Each book includes an excellent index. These attractive titles are a call to action.-Cynde Suite, Bartow County Library System, Adairsville, GA Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.

Facts about elephants are interspersed with chapters about dedicated individuals and groups... straightforward, no-nonsense approach... an invaluable resource.--Deborah Wiles"Halifax Chronicle Herald" (03/13/2005)