Mary Batten is a writer whose work has taken her into astonishing realms, from tropical rainforests to astronomical observatories. Through her writing for television, film, and publishing, she explores the intricacies of the natural world and scientific discovery with an enthusiasm that resonates with readers of all ages. Her prose is characterized by a deep curiosity and an ability to translate complex subjects into accessible and engaging narratives. She invites readers on journeys of wonder into the marvels of science and nature.
Award-winning nature writer Mary Batten explores the climate change challenges facing Antarctica, the planet's coldest and most extreme environment. Through vivid storytelling, she reveals the unique mysteries of this icy landscape and the critical implications of environmental shifts on its ecosystem. Batten's insightful observations highlight the urgency of understanding and addressing climate change in one of Earth's most vulnerable regions.
A dramatic overview of the deep-sea extremophiles that thrive in scalding water and permanent darkness at the bottom of the ocean The scalding-hot water gushing from vents at the bottom of the ocean is one of the most extreme environments on Earth. Yet over millions of years, many organisms—from chemical-eating bacteria to eyeless crabs and iron-shelled snails—have evolved in amazing ways that enable them to thrive in this unlikely habitat. Scientists are hard at work to learn more about the complex ecosystems of the ocean depths. Award-winning science writer Mary Batten and New York Times best-selling illustrator Thomas Gonzalez, the masterful duo that created Life in a Frozen World, team up again in this impressive overview of hydrothermal ocean vents. Her clear, informative text coupled with his unique and eerily realistic paintings of sights never seen on land—gushing "black smokers," ghostly blind shrimp, red-plumed tube worms—will entice readers to learn more about this once-hidden world at the bottom of the sea.
The book explores the remarkable adaptations of Antarctic wildlife, highlighting how species like krill and penguins thrive in harsh conditions. It delves into unique biological traits, such as certain fish producing natural antifreeze and the existence of giant seaweed forests beneath the ice. With climate change posing a threat, the narrative raises urgent questions about the survival of these creatures in a warming world, emphasizing the ongoing scientific efforts to understand their future.
A science writer explains what is cool about drool - its role in food digestion and dental hygiene and the secret properties of spit in the animal kingdom.
The book delves into the phenomenon of non-native species entering ecosystems, examining the reasons behind these invasions and their impact on native flora and fauna, as well as human populations. It highlights the ecological consequences that arise from these interactions, providing insights into the complex relationships between invasive species and established ecosystems.
Focusing on animal mating systems, this book offers a well-researched and succinct exploration of the biology behind female choice. It presents a clear account of various strategies employed in sexual selection, making it an essential resource for understanding the complexities of mating behaviors in the animal kingdom.
They roar. They claw. They stalk. They pounce. The wild cats of the world are beautiful, but also deadly. From ferocious lions, speedy cheetahs, and cagey tigers to unusual sand cats and clouded leopards, Wild Cats takes you into the wild.
This book offers readers a bug’s-eye view into the strange and fascinating world of carnivorous plants. From the “jaws” of the Venus flytrap to the pretty sundew plant whose delicate tentacles entrap its prey, the unique anatomy and behaviors of meat-eating plants are detailed with clear, engaging text and art.