Found in one place only

In the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Shanti's family is taken through the forest by Rani, their local guide. Rani tells them that the forests here are home to many animals, colourful birds, butterflies and insects that are unique — found nowhere else.

Two birds, the Andaman wood pigeon and the Andaman hornbill, are found only here. That is what makes these forests so special and important for us to protect: if they were lost, these birds would have no other home. Many of the trees, too, are found only on these islands.

Shanti is curious about the big roots growing out of the bottom of a tree and spreading out wide. These roots support the tree and hold it upright.

Your book shows this with paper. A thin paper tube falls over when you try to stand it up. But when 3 or 4 small paper triangles are stuck evenly round its bottom, it stays upright. The triangles hold up the tube just as the spreading roots hold up the tree. Nature often has the best designs!