Animals have evolved an incredible variety of external structures — from fins and feathers to claws and shells — that help them survive in their environments. This engaging book introduces young readers to the fascinating world of animal external structures, helping them understand how these physical features are adapted to help animals find food, avoid predators, and move through their environments.

Students will explore the external structures of a wide variety of animals — from the webbed feet of ducks to the sharp talons of eagles, from the thick fur of polar bears to the streamlined bodies of dolphins. They will discover how these structures are shaped by evolution and natural selection, and explore how scientists study animal anatomy to better understand the diversity of life on Earth.

Aligned with life science curricula, this book is an ideal resource for school libraries, classrooms, and independent learners. A comprehensive glossary, animal anatomy activities, and discussion questions help students develop a solid understanding of animal external structures and the remarkable ways in which animals have adapted to thrive in their environments.