DID YOU HEAR THAT?

Bats, mice, moles, dogs, caterpillars, and dolphins use super high sounds—ultrasound—to find their young, avoid their enemies, and communicate over long distances. Other animals, like elephants, arctic terns, alligators, and prairie dogs use super-low sounds—infrasounds—to communicate. Arnold, author of many outstanding science titles (Giant Shark, 2000, etc.), introduces a dozen animals with super hearing in this appealing offering. It serves as a clear and accessible introduction to animal communications, with enough unusual facts to intrigue the more experienced reader as well. For example, Arnold explains arctic terns can hear very low sounds, like distant thunder. “They may be able to use this information to avoid storms.” And “Crickets, katydids, and cicadas make sounds by rapidly rubbing their front wings together. Other insects vibrate special membranes or squirt fluids from their bodies to make ultrasounds.” The brief text is complemented by dozens of full-color illustrations that extend it, often with boxes to highlight specific details. The author concludes with some Web sites for more information on animal communication and a brief glossary. A welcome addition to the science section. (Nonfiction. 5-9)