Irvine, Georgeanne

Describes how animals such as the clouded leopard, Tahitian lory, and the Mhorr gazelle have become endangered species and how scientists at the San Diego Zoo are working on projects that will protect and conserve these rare animals.

Takes the reader on a tour of the San Diego Zoo, describing the animals and plants and the people who care for them.

Relates the story of Basi and Yuan Yuan, two giant pandas from China who visited the San Diego Zoo as goodwill ambassadors to help Americans learn about the plight of their species.

Describes the early years in the life of a gorilla born in captivity at the San Diego Zoo and later moved to the San Diego Wild Animal Park.