More than 236 different plant and animal groups that you will find at the water's edge, from manatees and sharks in the ocean to algae and dragonflies in the pond; all the images and clues you need to identify your finds, including detailed descriptions of appearance, behavior, and habitat; fun facts about waterways and water creatures, such as why the oceans have tides but the Great Lakes don't, where tsunamis occur most often, how to keep a hermit crab for a pet, and much more; special "on location" sections featuring 16 distinctive water's edge destinations throughout North America, from Barrow, Alaska, to Sanibel Island, Florida; exclusive bonus! Steve Leatherman ("Dr. Beach"), creator of the famous annual Top 10 beaches, recommends North America's 20 all-time top beaches, 10 top rivers, and 5 top Great Lakes destinations.--P. [4] of cover.

At head of title: National Geographic. "Beaches, shorelines, riverbanks"--Cover.

The water's edge. On the edge ; Forces of change ; Life at the water's edge -- Field guide. Beachcombing ; Invertebrates ; Insects & other invertebrates ; Fish ; Reptiles & amphibians ; Birds ; Mammals ; Plants -- Top choices from Dr. Beach. All-time top 20 beaches ; Top 10 river sites ; Top 5 Great Lakes beaches -- Safety at the water's edge.