7From flightless, long-legged ostriches to winged rays, and from elusive, long-tailed snow leopards to wily foxes, the world of animals is wonderfully diverse. This popular and newly expanded series continues traveling the planet to study these and other fascinating mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, and invertebrates. Beautiful photos are paired with STEM-appropriate text to examine the featured creature's appearance, habitat, behaviors, and life cycle. Each book also presents a folk story that people have used to help explain the animal's appearance or behavior. A basic exploration of the appearance, behavior, and habitat of manatees, the aquatic relatives of dugongs. Also included is a story from folklore explaining why manatees are associated with mermaids.