Adventures with Freshwater Animals Author:Richard Headstrom What fish builds a delicate, pouchlike nest comparable to that of a bird? Why can some insects walk on water? What animal moves by performing cartwheels? The answers to these and many other intriguing questions can be found in this fascinating guide for young naturalists. — Noted author and educator Richard Headstrom invites readers to join him o... more »n 47 adventures devoted to exploring the habits, habitats, and behavior of common freshwater insects and other animals. In simple, informative language, embellished by 185 of his own pen-and-ink drawings, Headstrom Mr. tells you how to find, examine, and observe the diverse denizens of stream, pond, and puddle -- fairy shrimp, newts, hellgrammites, water striders, hydras, springtails, stoneflies, freshwater sponges, and many other often-overlooked creatures.
Drawing on his encyclopedic knowledge and years of experience as a naturalist, the author details distinguishing features of each animal, environmental adaptations, defense and survival mechanisms, food-gathering and reproductive functions, and more. You'll learn how to perform simple experiments, set up aquaria and other observing facilities at home, and how to feed and maintain captive specimens. Best of all, no elaborate equipment is needed (a microscope is helpful in a few cases) and specimens are as close as the nearest roadside puddle.« less