Ages 4 to 8 years. The hatching of a baby bird is often the first time young children encounter the birth process. This highly illustrated new book helps children understand why and how birds lay eggs and how hatchlings emerge from their shells. Close-up images of newly hatched chicks accompany simple descriptions of bird bodies, how most baby birds are dependent on their mothers for food and protection, how the babies communicate with their mothers, and how they learn to fly. Children will also love the entertaining photographs of fuzzy ducklings and chicks interacting with each other and their mothers.