Weird and Wonderful Nature

Book excerpt: Discover the stories of more than 100 striking, rare, and unusual species, and objects, all told by author Ben Hoare. This third installment of the DK Treasures series explores the weird and wonderful side of the natural world. Why do Mexican jumping beans jump? How do sea cucumbers defend themselves? What causes the northern lights? This book is filled with facts about the most surprising and curious plants, animals, rocks, and phenomena in nature. Many animals and plants seem bizarre, but they are uniquely adapted to their way of life, and once you uncover the reasons for their looks, they make perfect sense. In Weird Nature, Ben Hoare's friendly, informative explanations are paired with stunning photographs and charming illustrations to make sure every page captivates the imagination, while a glossary and index help to navigate the chapters. Third in the series after Nature's Treasures and The Secret World of Plants, Weird Nature is a substantial gift book that will be treasured for years to come.