Diane Jackson Hill, Animal Migrations, Flying, Walking, Swimming, CSIRO Publishing, August 2022, 80 pp., RRP $29.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781486315413
Animal migrations are fascinating and there is still a lot of information scientists don’t know about them. In this informative book published by the CSIRO, retired teacher Diane Jackson Hill describes what is known and the many different species which take part.
Divided into sections on flying, walking and swimming migrations, beautiful photographs of creatures such as caribou, wildebeest, whales, penguins, bats, shearwaters, crabs and salmon are shown, and their travels explained. Fact boxes include amazing records such as the longest migratory journey, the longest non-stop flight and the largest number of animals migrating together.
How these animals navigate is being investigated and navigation aids such as magnetic fields, polarised light and landmarks are known to be used by different species. Dangers to migrating creatures along the route are discussed, including predators, road traffic and weather events. Attempts to assist their migration by building wildlife bridges and tunnels and temporarily closing roads is also mentioned. Their usefulness as food sources and pollinators is shown and tips for what to do if you find a migrating animal or wish to help are listed.
This is a good introduction to this intriguing subject. The text is accurate but not too complicated and tinged with touches of humour. There are maps, a glossary, and an index along with a further reading section. Teachers Notes are available from the CSIRO website.
Reviewed by Lynne Babbage
