Less than 100 years ago, the northern elephant seal was thought to be extinct. Today more than 250,000 elephant seals swim in the Pacific Ocean from Alaska to Mexico. In Return from Extinction: The Triumph of the Elephant Seal Linda L. Richards tells the story of their dramatic recovery.
Elephant seals were hunted to near extinction for their precious oil before the Mexican government stepped in to protect them. Many people thought it was too late. Even though the life of the elephant seal is difficult and only 20 percent of pups born will make it to adulthood, the species adapted and came back from the brink. They are a true conservation success story.
School Library Journal
“Richards creates a compelling journey. Her style could be described as Mary Roach for children…An ecological success story with humor and heart that earns its place in any middle grade library.”
Kirkus Reviews
“Plenty of facts...A nice mix of photographs enliven the pages…Natural-history nonfiction [that] endearingly reflects the author’s enthusiasm.”
Nonfiction Ages 9-12
Pages: 96
Themes: elephant seals, endangered species, extinction, conservation, marine mammals
Pages: 96
Themes: elephant seals, endangered species, extinction, conservation, marine mammals