Page 3 - Kind News Teacher Guide, May/June 2023

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Critter Clues FROM PAGE 7

Our mystery critter is the iguana. With over 40 recognized species, these
adaptable lizards can live in many types of environments, from lush rainforests to dry, rocky
deserts. Because there are so many species, iguana appearances vary greatly, from dull to
brightly colored.
Iguanas have many unique qualities! Their amazing eyesight allows them to easily navigate
through their habitat. Their parietal eye, the third eye on the top of their head that senses light, is
thought to help them find their way and sense predators. They also use their eyes and body
language to communicate with other iguanas. They extend their dewlap, the flap of skin under their
neck, both to greet one another or as a territorial sign. They also bob their heads up and down as a greeting.
Iguanas are social creatures and have been known to protect one another from danger. When they feel threatened,
they are able to shed a portion of their tails, making it easier for them to escape.
Although many iguana species still have high populations, many are vulnerable or endangered due to loss of habitat, the
introduction of non-native species to their habitats, climate change, and poaching for meat or the illegal exotic pet trade — for
which they are often transported in poor conditions and then sold in pet stores.
How can you help? Don’t buy iguanas. If you have the space and time to take care of an iguana in your home, search for
a reputable reptile rescue. If you have wild iguanas in your area, don’t feed them — this can cause nutrient deficiencies and
digestive problems. For more information on the exotic pet trade and what you can do to help, visit humanesociety.org and
search “wildlife trade.”
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BOOK NOOK

I Begin with Spring: The Life and Seasons of Henry David Thoreau
Written by Julie Dunlap | Recommended for grades 3-7
I Begin with Spring captures the wonder we can experience from paying close attention to the
nature around us. Presenting some of Thoreau’s real journal entries and highlighting his fascination
with nature starting at the age of 11 or 12, this book presents a nice example of journalistic writing
THIS PAGE: NITTY DITTY/UNSPLASH.COM involvement with abolitionists and the underground railroad.
and how to use these observations to monitor biodiversity and climate change. The book is organized by the seasons,
beautifully illustrated and includes copies of historical drawings and touches on other aspects of Thoreau’s life, including his

About the Author: Award-winning author and educator Julie Dunlap has written over thirty books for children, including
Janey Monarch Seed. She is also the editor of Companions in Wonder: Children and Adults Exploring Nature Together
(with Stephen R. Kellert). Julie explores and studies nature often with her family and as a volunteer with her local Audubon
Society, and shares her love of wildlife with students at the University of Maryland Global Campus.
I BEGIN WITH SPRING: THE LIFE AND SEASONS OF HENRY DAVID THOREAU © 2022 BY TILBURY HOUSE PUBLISHERS