Tree hollows make great homes for little animals. In this beautifully illustrated book we see an old gum tree.

When a branch falls from an old gum tree you’ll notice a thump, I guarantee. But you might miss the scratch that’s left behind – it’s not the sort of home I had in mind.

There are so many animals that would like to call this hollow a home. At one time there were beetles, then three-toed skinks moved in. When they moved out, the rain fell and the hollow doubled in size. Seems like the hollow can house someone new, in the yellow-bellied bats flew!

Life In a Hollow helps us to understand how important even one single hollow in a tree is to provide a safe home to animals. That one hollow can provide a safe place to live over time for so many, from the possum with her joey, to squawking parrots.

As with all books from the CSIRO, there is information in the back to help us understand the importance of tree hollows and how we can help animals find a home.

Reviewed by Merle Morcom
Age Guide 5+