Carson, Mary Kay. Urban Coyotes. Tom Uhlman, Illus. Scientists in the Field. Clarion, 08/2024. [80]pp. Nonfiction. Trade $21.99. 978-0-06327-147-0. GRADES 4–7. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
In the 1990s coyotes first started showing up in city neighborhoods, and animal control agencies were flooded with anxious complaints. Field scientists formed Chicago’s Urban Coyote Research project, tracking, monitoring, and learning the why, how, what, and where of this new urban-predator phenomenon. Six defined chapters with compelling photographs alternate field accounts with coyote natural history. Both successes and frustrations are highlighted and individual field scientists are spotlighted (including one young woman from San Francisco). An index and clearly titled chapters allow readers to focus on animal-centered facts or scientific procedures. Coyote ranges continue to expand and this fresh installment in an acclaimed series should have wide appeal. Back matter includes a glossary, additional facts, sources, select bibliography, and an index. Review based on an ARC.
Melissa McAvoy—Retired