Poo Pile on the Prairie

A heaping helping of natural history, delivered with a wink. 

The wonders of bison poo are explored in this nonfiction picture book. When a pile of bison poo is deposited on the ground of the grasslands, it isn't left stagnant. In the spring, dung beetles dig, eat, and tunnel inside the precious pile and some are even stored away for later. Filled with nutrients, the excrement provides food for insects, which in turn attracts birds, turtles, and even owls. Soon flowers and plants begin to sprout and grow, which draws the butterflies, grasshoppers, toads, prairie dogs, and elk throughout the summer. As fall and winter approach, it is saved for a snack and also burrowed under by bees and pocket gophers to stay warm in the cold. As winter ends and the snow melts, the insects leave and the pile becomes food for the dormant grass. The cycle begins anew with the birth of new baby bison and more poo to enrich the environment. Soft greens, blues, and browns make up the majority of the adorable animal illustrations that are done in acrylic, marker, and pencil collaged digitally. Beginning in spring and ending the following year, the book crosses seasons as different creatures use the bison poo. The final page contains additional information about bison poo and protecting prairie ecosystems. VERDICT A first purchase for all libraries desiring an interesting and beautiful story about this important prairie ecosystem contributor. Highly recommended.

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