Scientific American Investigates Life Cycles

Many species of cuckoo lay their eggs in the nests of other birds. After the young cuckoo hatches, it may eject the other babies from the nest so it can thrive. Some kinds of cicadas can live for 17 years—one of the longest insect life spans on Earth! In this set presented by Scientific American, readers learn amazingly odd life cycle facts like these, plus much more about the cicada, cuckoo bird, mayfly, octopus, salmon, and kangaroo. Full-color photographs correlate closely to the achievable text, aiding readers' comprehension.

• Diagrams and graphic organizers engage readers with the steps of each life cycle
• Supports lower elementary science curricula including information about life cycles, habitats, diet, and animal groups
• Encourages interest in the natural world