Little Michael is terrified of wild animals, particularly bears and mountain lions. His sister Emily enjoys tormenting her little brother. Wildlife can be elusive, and both are disappointed when, at first, they don?t encounter many animals in the park. The kids quickly learn, however, that there are animals all around, and these creatures leave behind scat and tracks. Before long, the kids are able to recognize bat guano, distinguish deer scat from other kinds of scat, and determine what an owl has dined on recently. Fun animal facts are offered in ?The Straight Poop? fact boxes. Colorful...

This charming tale of Michael, Emily, and their parents as they explore the Sonoran Desert is designed to both entertain and educate. Wildlife can be elusive, and both kids are disappointed when at first they don't encounter many animals in the park. The kids quickly learn, however, that there are animals all around, and these creatures leave behind scat and tracks. Colorful illustrations of animals and their leavings supplement this lively tale, and a quick-identification chart at the back makes field identification a breeze!