"All science classrooms discuss animals that hibernate during winter months, but few know about animals that estivate--a prolonged sleep during hot or dry periods. Dual layers of text awaken readers to the reasons estivating animals become dormant--whether it's because warm weather threatens food supply or to avoid increased body temperatures."-- Provided by publisher.

The word "hibernate" is crossed out and replaced with the word "estivate". "A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection" -- Page [4] of cover. "Estivation is just like hibernation--only it happens in the summer instead of winter. Why do some animals settle into cool, snug spots and sink into a summertime sleep? Because it's too hot for their bodies to function, or their food is in short supply. Some estivating animals sleep in groups; others rest alone. Some go on a long journey before they slumber; others hunker down right at home. From the pixie frog to the spotte turtle to the desert hedgehog, discover how a variety of animals survive by taking a break during the hottest days of the year" -- Book jacket.