Book Description

Once the world's largest marsupial predator, the doglike Tasmanian tiger (Thylacinus cynocephalus) ranged across Australia and as far north as New Guinea. After humans introduced dingoes to the area 4,000 years ago, the misnamed "tiger" was driven to extinction everywhere except the island of Tasmania. With the arrival of European settlers there in the 1800s, however, its days became numbered. Unsubstantiated tales of its blood-thirst and its unnaturally savage attacks on sheep led to the creation of "extermination societies" and ultimately to the introduction of a law in 1886 that mandated the destruction of the species. Hunted indiscriminately for fifty years, Tasmanian tigers were granted a reprieve in 1936, when the government was persuaded to protect the species. But it was too late: the last specimen died in a Hobart zoo two months later.

In Tasmanian Tiger, David Owen tells the tragic story of the thylacine, from its evolutionary origins and its physical and behavioral characteristics to its ill-fated encounter with European civilization and the ongoing fascination with the "Tassie Tiger" as a potent symbol of wildlife conservation. Elegantly written and full of interesting facts and first-hand stories from those who saw the animal in the wild, Tasmanian Tiger offers a compelling account of how fear and ignorance doomed an entire species over the course of a century. And in recounting numerous recent sightings of the thylacine in Tasmania, Owen explores the power that this once-despised creature continues to hold on the imagination today. Indeed, as described in this book, serious efforts are being undertaken to bring back the Tasmanian tiger through cloning, a controversial project that raises a number of ethical questions for scientists and conservationists everywhere. For both those familiar with the thylacine and those discovering this remarkable animal for the first time, Tasmanian Tiger is a poignant cautionary tale of human folly and the fragility of the natural world. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Beginner's guide to mammal bones
I purchased this book because at the time there were no better books available on the subject. The illustrations are simple line drawings and lack detail. For a book based on identification, I feel this is a major flaw. It can be used for basic classification of the more common mammals, but if you're looking for something with detail, look elsewhere. ... Read more

Book Description

This book, by two leading marine mammalogists, is a succinct yet comprehensive text devoted to the systematics, evolution, morphology, ecology, physiology, and behavior of marine mammals. With chapters on the evolutionary history of the principle lineages, major organ systems, diving physiology, diet, sound production and echolocation, reproductive behavior, and conservation biology, this book will be required reading for all marine biologists concerned with marine mammals.

Key Features
* Comprehensive, up-to-date coverage of the biology of all marine mammals
* Provides a phylogenetic framework that integrates phylogeny with behavior and ecology
* Features chapter summaries, further readings, an appendix, glossary, extensive bibliography, and many figures and photos ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Fantastic!!
This book is a really great find. It goes through the evolution of cetaceans and pinnapeds. It uses some wild termanology but they are all defined for you. It covers every aspect of marine mammal evolution. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in whales and dolhpins or seals and sea lions.

Es un libro basico
Este es uno de los libros basicos para los mastozoologos marinos, ya que se hace una revision sobre la evolucion de los mamiferos marinos. ... Read more

Book Description

From the under-snow tunnels of Arctic lemmings to the egg nests of the bizarre Australian echidna, from the Pacific waters inhabited by sea otters and whales to the subways of major cities, this extraordinary and attractive book brings us into the homes and lives of some of earth's most fascinating animals.

Published in conjunction with a ten-part television series that will air on the Discovery Channel, The Life of Mammals brings us nose-to-nose with mammals in all of their beauty and immense variety. Renowned naturalist, writer, and filmmaker David Attenborough treks across every continent and kind of terrain to introduce us to such unusual and evolutionarily successful creatures as the Patagonian opossum, the Canadian pygmy shrew, the Alpine marmot, and the Malaysian sun bear. We meet slow-moving algae-covered sloths. We enter a pack of African wild dogs, seeing how their division of labor enables them to provide protection and food to pups, mothers, and old dogs. We learn about the navigation systems of bats and find out why Borneo's colugo is a superior glider to a flying squirrel. Along the way, Attenborough considers how evolution has shaped mammalian habits, leading herbivorous sea cows to take to the water and humans to commence agriculture.

Containing more than 200 spectacular color photographs, this is a book that will gratify anyone intrigued by the natural world and the animals that inhabit it. Informative, utterly absorbing, and classic Attenborough, it represents natural history at its finest.

... Read more

Reviews (5)

There are better books for the purpose
This book is intended to accompany Attenborough's film series, _The Life of Mammals_. The films are chock full of wonderful footage and information, so I was excited to see the book. The book contains numerous color prints, and is almost equally informative. However, it largely (but not wholly) repeats the film. Its chapters are organized in the same fashion as the film, and the format of each chapter is basically an alternative way the film could have been produced. As a stand-alone volume, it is a decent popular book on mammals; however, it is so similar to the film that reading the book ruins rather than enhances watching the movie, and vice versa. I do not see the point of writing this book as a companion to the documentary series, and its format, with chapters that are not subdivided, is better suited for the movies than the book.

To me, a much better companion volume for Attenborough's series is David Macdonald's 2001 edition of _The Encyclopedia of Mammals_. The photographs in Macdonald's book are even larger and glossier than in Attenborough's book, plus there are photographs of almost every taxonomical group. If one sees Attenborough first, Macdonald's book allows readers to hone in on species and groups that they saw in the movie and found interesting, or see the animals that Attenborough left out. If one reads Macdonald first, which mammals Attenborough will choose to show and how becomes a guessing game. Unlike Attenborough's book, the format of Macdonald's book exploits the advantage of using a book over a movie--the subsections are well divided by taxonomical group, and readers can move at their own pace more easily and focus on only one species or a few species, if they so choose.

Packed with appealing color photos
David Attenborough's Life of Mammals compliments a ten-part TV series to air on the Discovery channel which covers mammals of the world and their evolutionary processes. From learning about the navigation methods of bats and the special habits of meat eaters to understanding the natural history of water mammals, this provides a focus which contrasts environments and evolutionary processes, and makes for an important guide. Packed with appealing color photos.

One Fine Book.
Written in transparent prose which also happens to be very engaging, this book provides you with lots and lots of detailed information about all kinds of mammals, of whose lives will astound many a reader. In case you're too tired to read the text, there's always the abundance (more than 200) of top-class "spectacular color photographs," as the book description above says/claims. This happens to be true.

I can only speak from my own experience, and so I can say I'm an admirer of this man's television series. David Attenborough's enthusiasms about the natural world (be they rocks, plants, or animals) are very apparent on the screen, and definitely in this book too.

Be sure to give 'The Life of Mammals' a try.

Good old David Attenborough...
I sometimes get the idea that David Attenborough went out one year and shot 100,000 hours of nature footage, and has been creating documentaries out of it ever since. This book on the different orders of mammals, though it does not include obvious retreads like some of his earlier films and books, follows the same admittedly pleasing structure: primitive to advanced. That is, we open with monotremes and marsupials, proceed "upward" through insectivores, rodents, and so on up to homo sapiens. Each species gets a fine color photo and one or two gee-whiz details about its appearance or habits. A typically rewarding coffee-table nature book from everyone's favorite British naturalist.

Entertaining
I found this book very entertaining. It is written very simply to satisfy a broad audience. The pictures are stunning. Mr. Attenbourough and his team have been able to show us animals I have never even heard of. I can hardly wait to get the DVD. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Excellant
This book contains one of the most extensive catalogs of the bats of the world that I have ever read. Not for pleasure reading, but great for research. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Dolphin lovers will love this!
I'm a 14 year old girl, and I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I love dolphins, and I wanted to learn more about them without being fed a bunch of information like a textbook. Instead, Dolphin Chronicles presents lots of information in textbook form. By the time you get to the end, you'll have a much greater understanding of dolphin training, their lifestyles in captivity and in the wild, and the life of a person working with dolphins without ever realizing you were even learning anything! It's great that this book can be so easy to read and comprehend with so much info packed inside. I totally recommend it to anyone who would like to understand the dolphin world better!

If you're really interested in dolphins, this is the book...
the best book on dolphins I've read. Deals not only with science, but the emotional aspect of working with dolphins. A must read if interested in the field....

This is the best book I've EVER read!
Carol Howard has a unique talent and way of combining love, compassion, sorrow, humor, and a vast amount of knowledge in 294 pages. Never have I learned so much about a book as I did from Dolphin Chronicles. My ultimate dream is to study these strange and magnificent creatures of the sea, as well as whales. I received Dolphin Chronicles as a Christmas gift from my Grandparents, and I must say that it was my favorite gift of all! In the past, I have read about 5 or 6 books about Cetaceans (by Jacques-Yves Cousteau and other authors) and have gotton extremely bored halfway through the material, simply because it was so dry and was lacking the compassion Carol so rightly illustrates! I would recommend this book to anyone. I am planning on researching more of Carol Howard's work wherever it may be. If anyone can clue me in as to the fastest and cheapest ways of finding it, Please feel free to e-mail me your information. Thank you. :-) P.S. If Carol Howard or anyone who knows Mrs. Howard reads this review, I would like to know her e-mail address if possible to personally thank her for producing such a wonderful and moving book. Thanks for your cooperation. --"May your life be like the Dolphin, calm and peaceful waters."

The best first hand account I have ever read!
This is the best first hand experience I have ever read on dolphins! I do marine mammal rescues and have a deep love and respect for dolphins and our oceans. Carol Howard's experience is one that I feel I have experienced first hand. Excellent writing. It helps us realize the need to know more about dolphins and their brilliance but also to respect their need to be free in our oceans.

The best book I've read on dolphins in a LONG time!!
Dolphin Chronicles is a wonderful story about Carol J. Howard's adventure with dolphins. Her book was so well-written that I felt like I was actually participating in her events. I am only thirteen years old but it the best book I have read in my life. I now want to be a marine biologist and dedicate my life to researching and caring for dolphins. Thank you Carol for writing such a wonderful book ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Guide to the World's Best Arial Fisherman
Unlike the Bald Eagle and other hawks, there is not much available outside of Scientific papers on these unique birds. This book, published in 1997 fills a needed void, and covers the natural history of this breed. As is well known due to the effects of DDT (which has been banned for many years), this species in particular was scarce and endangered for a long time. The Osprey is now making a strong come-back and is showing an astonishing adaptability to co-exist with man. Here in Florida, I have seen them build nests on metal signs over the freeways near water, and showing every sign of thriving. Illustrating this text are lush color photographs of these birds - soaring, fishing, nest building, raising young, courtship, etc. In the text you will learn how the Osprey enjoys the highest success rate of all the fishing raptors, and their fishing technique is discussed at length from beginning to end. Migration, courtship, vocalization, rearing of young, it's all here. The effects of man and development are also examined, competition from other birds, etc. This is a great book on these fabulous fishermen, definitely, a must buy! When you look up in the sky and see the characteristic "M" shape of the soaring Osprey's wings you will have a richer understanding and new appreciation for these noble creatures. ... Read more

Book Description

Bullen was first mate on the "Cachalot" during its three-year whaling expedition from New Bedford, Massachusetts, around the world by way of the Seychelles and Aldabra islands, Hong Kong, Hawaii, New Zealand, and Cape Horn. This is the ultimate whaling narrative, superbly written. ... Read more

Book Description

Part memoir, part meditation, part love story, Shadow Mountain is an impassioned commentary on how our connection to the wild can rescueor destroy us.

While completing an undergraduate research thesis, Renée Askins was given a two-day-old wolf pup to raise. Named Natasha, the pup, was destined for a life in captivity. Through her work with Natasha and her siblings, Askins developed a deep, fierce love for the species. On the day Natasha was unexpectedly taken from her and sent to a remote research facility, Askins made a promise to the wolf pup: "Your life, your sacrifice, will make a difference."And it did.

Renée Askins spent the next fifteen years in the grueling effort to restore wolves to Yellowstone, where they had been exterminated by man some seventy years before. The campaign's popularity with the American public aroused the rage of the western ranching community and their powerful political allies in Washington. She endured death threats, years of contentious debate and political manipulations, and heartbreaking setbacks when colonizing wolves were illegally killed. But in March 1995, Askins witnessed the realization of her mission when wolves were released into their native home in Yellowstone–the first wolves to be found there in almost a century.

A born storyteller, Renée Askins offers moving and vibrant examples of the reciprocity that exists between man and animal. And, like a wolf in the shadows, Askins circles the issues surounding the conundrum of embracing wild nature. Shadow Mountain explores the wildness present within animals and humans, urging us to recognize both its light and its shadow–its power to heal and harm. Roaming from wolves to the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, from passion to politics, Shadow Mountain is the story of shared struggles and destinies, of failure and redemption, and offers insight into how we can mend our contentious relationship with wildness by understanding the power of the wild to guide and shape us. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

A life altering book
I originally got this book out of the library, in part of planning a trip to Yellowstone and a desire to see its wolves. After only a few pages, I realized I was reading a book that was about so much more than wolves -- Ms. Askins writes brilliantly about conservation ethics, wildness, the politics of animal reintroductions, and living a commitment. The book was so good that I rushed out to buy my own copy, in part so I could underline all of the 'nuggets' of wisdom she serves up. This is a woman that I hope someday my daughter can meet - for she is a living example of what someone with vision, chutzpah, a good education, and perserverance can accomplish.

Its not about the wolf.
Askins has crafted a compelling story about examining our human relationship with the natural world. Ostensibly, the book describes the formation of the Wolf Fund, her single issue, streamlined, strategic environmental organization aimed at garnering grass roots support and applying political pressure to achieve the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park. And yet it is about so much more. She writes with candor and wit, wandering back and forth in time, highlighting the trail, effectively illustrating serendipitous twists of fate that ultimately influence her role in the attainment of this greater goal. It's her story, and yet, like any good writing, there is something universal here. Digging at the roots of her own motivation, she uncovers a philosophy for life. Askins herds the reader along with a mixture of dogged determination and poetic passion, feeding us cookies of wisdom along the way, plenty of food for thought. I hope we hear her howl again.

Renee's Wolves
Just before the start of Chapter one in the book Shadow Mountain is the Quote from Gandhi "Whatever you do will be insignificant and it is very important that you do it". Ghandi also once wrote that you can judge people by the way they treat their animals. Renee Askins founded the Wolf Fund in 1986 for the purpose of reintroducing the wolf into Yellowstone National Park. Renee Askins is a fine human being, one who, like Dian Fossey, has devoted herself to one endangered species and from her efforts has found ground breaking and hopefully, long lasting success. Shadow Mountain is a wonderful book filled with emotion and adventure that will make you laugh, make you angry, and make you cry, but most of all is will make you pleased about the way you treat your animals.

great enough to buy it for a friend
Renee Askins has written something (somewhat tangentially), about wolves--that truly translates into every other aspect of life--she's a brilliant and beautiful genius, and it will probably be ages before we realize her wisdom. For the time being, I am content to wander through her metaphors and images, just hoping that I discover their worth.

A Truly Great Book
Renee Askins is a lyrical writer who tells her story beautifully. It's not about the wolves and it's not about Yellowstone; it's about passion and heartbreak and staying on course. It made me laugh, shake my head, and cry. And long after the last page of the book, her bright images peer from behind trees and peek around corners. ... Read more

Book Description

Mountain lion, panther, puma: whatever the name, this powerful big cat has inspired both fear and reverence in the minds of Americans. Chris Bolgiano traces the compelling history of this elusive creature, focusing on its interactions with human beings throughout the years. Now available in paperback, this book offers a concise natural history of the mountain lion, a fascinating discussion of the mythological significance of the animal to Native Americans and early white settlers, and insight into the culture of lion hunting. Other highlights include the lore of panther sightings in the Northeast and analysis of the puma's new role as a symbol of the wilderness. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A book you will be proud to own
Mountain Lion was a wonderful book to read. I had been looking everywhere for a comprehensive book or video on the Mountian Lion of North America and I feel I have hit the jackpot. This book tells you "everything you ever wanted to know" about the Mountain Lion and more. From it's origins and how it relates to Natives all the way to it's current situation. Chris Bolgiano writes with a sympathetic eye and makes you realize how important preservation is not only for the Mountain lion and other animals but for humans too. She speaks about Mountain Lion sightings in places where logging and building houses have eliminated the big cat from these areas. She feels people still see sightings because of their phycological need for wilderness. She made me think more about preservation and the importance of saving our wilderness. I would recommend this great book for any Cat and Animal lovers out there. It could also be interesting for conservationists and anybody who is active or interested in enviromental issues.

One of the best books I have read about a wildlife species.
This is Ms Bolgiano's first book. I happened to read her second book, The Appalachian Forest, first. I liked that book so much, I had to try this one. I am glad I did.

Ms Bolgiano is both a thorough and accurate researcher and an excellent writer. The text of Mountain Lion benefits greatly from both these talents. It is clear that the author traveled widely and spent much time and money in gaining a deep and expansive understanding of cougars and their dealings with our species before writing Mountain Lion.

Once she started writing, Ms Bolgiano wove a tale of this most illusive and truly wild of our wildlife species that is fascinating and a real joy to read. I have only a short time each day to read. I repeatedly found myself looking forward to my daily reading time as I read this book. Finally, I sacrificed large sections of a few nights of sleep and devoured and gorged until I came to the final page. Once done, I mourned the fact that it was over.

To anyone who has even a tiny interest in wild creatures and how we interact with them, I recommend Mountain Lions most highly. It is like taking a tour of a large portion of our land and gaining a much deeper understanding of the people and wildlife of each area. Equally beneficial, one comes to a better knowledge of and a deeper respect for our great, wild, American cat. Reading Mountain Lions, An Unnatural History of Pumas and People, is time extremely well spent.

Lyric writing and hard facts combined
The reader can tell that a great deal of research went into this book. It is also obvious that the author loves and respects her subject. If a myth about this animal needs to be broken she does so- but graciously. It was especially hard to read about the state of the Florida panther and how they are now so inbred it really is better to bring in the Texas animals to breed. Most of all it is Bolgiano's writing that carries the book- wave after wave of clear, precise prose. ... Read more

Book Description

In Cougar Attacks, Kathy Etling stands unflinching before the heated controversy that surrounds the debate over what should be done to protect both humans and cougars. What role do sport hunters play, or wildlife management programs? What is the anatomy of a cougar attack? Etling recounts their history from the earliest 1830s' reports to today's most recent incidents. She also offers advice on what you can do to protect yourself and your family if you ever encounter one. So pick up the chillingly gripping chronicles of man's terrifying encounters with one of north America's greatest predators. (6 1/4 x 9 1/4, 276 pages, chart) ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Truer words........
In reference to another reviewer in this listing, this specific book does a fine job of giving the reader a realistic view of the true nature of the cougar and it's interactions with humans in the present day. I live in a section of central coastal Oregon where the season is extended past the normal dates due to the amount of activity and damage from Cougars. We have to close down school yards, drive kids to school and essentially alter our daily routines (running,biking,walking pets etc..) to protect ourselves. There are "Cougar Drills" in our classrooms. While I understand the image folks have of "the bad hunters", were it not not for legislation limiting hunting these magnificent animals, we would in all probability, not be forced to deal with the current resurgence and growing numbers of mountain lions in such a negative way.

An annoying, poorly disguised pro-hunting book
This book is portrayed as an objective review of cougar attacks in North America. Unfortunately it's true goal comes out after a few pages when the book's main theme is revealed - that if only the hunting of mountain lions was allowed again, these terrbile attacks would not have happened. Of course, the real experts do not agree that this is the case, so all we have here is the self-serving opinion of the author being shoved down our throats. The author it turns out, is a hunter. While the book boasts a foreward by Harley Shaw, Shaw's words try to counter the author's intended message, attempting to play down the author's conclusions by pointing out that human attack by cougars is a rare thing indeed. If I had known this was a pro-hunting book written by a hunter, I would not have bought it. "Cat Attack" is a far more objective book.

The best book I have seen on this subject.
I live on Vancouver Island, the cougar capital of North America and this book was a real eye-opener for me. It is well-written and thoroughly researched and should be read by anyone who spends time in areas frequented by these magnificent cats. It not only gives a complete history of North American cougar attacks but gives solid useful advice if this ever happens to you. Highly recommended.

Jaws on Paws
Don't be confused when you see those lazy cougars in zoos, well fed swatting at flies with their tails. Kathy Etling paints a different picture of a skillful hunting and killing machine which kills with the same remorse we use when we down a Big Mac.These are not housepets you call 'kitty, kitty ' at when you see them. Chances are if you do see one its because you may be the main course tonight. This book is the ultimate authority on how surviviors escaped these predators in the past right up to today. It gives insight on the instincts of these large carnivores and is invaluable for anyone considering hiking, fishing, hunting, canoeing, or backpacking in remote areas. Not just in the mountains, cougars have been seen recently even in my home state of Missouri. Kathy Etling has done an excellent job compiling accounts and dispensing information on how you can most likely avoid one of these encounters of the worst kind. Even though she admits even if a person does all the right things still an attack may occur, it gives the outdoorman the knowledge what should be and more important, what definitely should not be done. Knowledge is power and as our two species encrouch more and more on each other attacks will occur more frequently. Like the deer, cougar populations are growing and man is destroying more and more of their habitat, forcing them to live closer to people. As they lose their natural fear of humans we all need to know how best to handle future encounter with these Jaws on Paws.

Scary, fascinating, and packed with good advice
It's hard to put this book down -- the author has done a terrific job of compiling an amazing array of details on cougar attacks, and each incident is more compelling to read about than the last. With development encroaching on wilderness areas at an increasingly rapid rate, this book is a must-read for more than the "outdoorsy" sorts who hike and camp in cougar country. Indeed, as many of the accounts demonstrate, a good number of attacks occur in semi-suburban areas that most would consider completely safe. I learned a gret deal about cougar behavior (Etling interviews expert biologists in the field) and have developed a new respect for and interest in these fascinating, beautiful animals. On the practical side, you'll also learn what to do if you find yourself being stalked -- useful information that makes this book more than worth the purchase price. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Beautiful!
This book describes the marine life of the Gulf of Mexico with numerous color photos and paintings by artist Larry Foster. This is a well-written and highly-recommended reference guide that will be particularly useful toreaders or travelers visiting the Gulf.

Included in the book is a set ofdrawings of the skulls of Gulf species allow readers who find beachedanimals to identify the animal. Sketches provide dorsal, ventral andlateral views.

The authors discuss the environmental problems of theGulf as they affect marine mammals, concluding: "Suffice it to saythat our love for these creatures has the capacity of being turned into apositive conservation force, not for just them but also for their fragileenvironments worldwide." This is a recommended title! ... Read more

Book Description

Animal tracks in the snow of the mountain forest, in the mud along a streambank, or in the sand of the desert are much more than footprints. James Halfpenny’s Field Guide will allow the nature lover to satisfy his or her curiosity by identifying the animal that left the prints. But identification is only the beginning of a fascinating activity: interpretation is the rewarding goal of this book. With it anyone can be a nature detective, able to reconstruct the behavior of mammals from mice to moose. Tracks tell stories and the user of this book can read them. Based on field research, much of it the author’s own, the book brings the amateur naturalist the latest information on animal gaits and the interpretation of scat. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Best Tracking Book I Know Of
I've read a number of tracking books and this one is the best. Easy to follow. Sensible. Lots on gait patterns and scats. James tells you what he knows and is careful not to pretend to know more than he does.

I highly recommend this book to all trackers and naturalists
This book has so much information about tracking that it will take a while to digest it all. The gait descriptions are thoroughly explained. Finer points of tracking and how to see tracks are well-defined. Explanations are written clearly and amply illustrated to make learning easier. This guide shows you how to identify not only the tracks, but the patterns and other signs left behind by animals. I have an extensive collection of books on tracking and I rate this one among the top three. ... Read more

Book Description

The Lost Grizzlies chronicles the ongoing search for proof that a small number of grizzly bears still lives in the isolated mountain wilds of southern Colorado. Rick Bass turns his considerable talents to an evocation of wilderness beauty and the history of human encroachment that may, or may not, have wiped out the last of these massive, solitary bears from their southern range. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

A Superb Read!!
Lost Grizzlies is a superb read! Rick Bass is fast becoming (may already be) our premier writer of the american wilderness. Bass' descriptions of the books characters and the wilds of the San Juan Mountains of Colorado are vivid. I enjoyed Bass' descriptions of Doug Peacock's brilliance and brutishness. I enjoyed reading ABOUT Peacock almost as much as I enjoyed reading Peacock's book (Grizzly Years).

Beautiful writing. Highly recommended.
As Rick Bass and Doug Peacock go high and deep into Colorado's San Juan Mountains, on the chance there might still be grizzlies somehow surviving there, we are treated to glimpses of unspeakable beauty and wonder. It's as though Bass were able to blend his own Ninemile Wolves with Peacock's Grizzly Years. Their journey is both exhilerating and meditative. Reading this book was a pleasure.

Defining
I thoroughly enjoyed this tale of the trail, but as science it dosen't bother to include any. Only the fact that standard conservation biology principles are ridiculed. Unfortunately this population of Ursus arctos horribilus is all but gone. They are at California Condor levels if present at all. They see one bear, but what of the DNA analysis? Bass does not tell us here. Bass's bear is more a vision than a reality.

The crowd of Earth First!ers from Tuscon and points north represented by the volatile-tempered Doug Peacock, that has allowed Rick Bass to join is a select band of outlaw literary types, that worship the wild and lament its demise. I share this sadness and want to prevent it myself, but my twelve years working as a fish and wildlife biologist did little to encourage me that this is possible. By aligning himself only with outlaw radicals whose personal behavior screams "left-wing enviro-nut" these noble ideas will be hard to sell by these messengers. Only with mainstream acceptance will change occur.

In Bass's home territory of Yaak, Montana this will be a hard sell. Libby is a devastated lumber town where I once worked for the U.S. Forest Service. I was so discouraged that I quit early and left town never to return. Bass runs with a select clique who live in Livingston, Montana a sort of "Hollywood North" of rich and famous actors and artists the likes of Peter Fonda, Tom McGuane, Dennis Quaid, the brothers Bridges, an endless list. But it's the outlaws like Dave Forman the founder of Earth First!that run the underground sects of the environmental movement, and they have a terrorist thesis; "Monkeywrenchers" as Ed Abby envisioned. Peacock is the model although he does not actually commit vandalism acts himself. They don't accept newcomers into their ranks easily; particularly impoverished writers from the "sticks."

I wrote Mr. Bass once of my efforts chronicled in my first book "Against A Strong Current," on these conservation matters and received no reply. Acceptance by this group is not my goal but credit is difficult to get, even if one has extensive credentials and a government work record that takes place on scene as part of the in house system working for the same change. It is easy to be upstaged by amateurs. Bass seeks to sell romance sans the "Guzzi" consumerish trappings. This work is a success at that, but it is not in any sense, biology.

I Believe It Was a Grizzly
This book is a unique combination of comedy, real-life adventure and a luminous testimony to one of America's most endangered and mythical beasts. Bass is at his best here, capturing the hearts of his readers through an alternately hilarious and spine tingling account of his journey into the Colorado mountains in search of grizzly bears.

The problem facing Bass and his two friends is that the grizzly bear is believed to be extinct in Colorado. However, several undocumented sightings and signs have convinced them that the bears exist in the remotest regions of the mountain range. Thus they are out to do all they can to locate bears and document their findings.

In the resulting adventures we find the three companions trapsing through woods, sliding down canyon walls, confronting bureaucrats and tracking down bear sign. Things are complicated, and given a distinctly uneasy quality, by the behavior of Doug Peacock. Peacock, himself a well-known author and champion of the grizzly bear, is plagued by frequent and dramatic mood swings. His alarmingly volatile temper, moments of intense introspection and frequent outbursts of graphic profanity have the reader feeling like he/she is walking on eggshells. Because Bass has done such a good job of describing his friend, and how he came to be the way he is, it's easy to forgive Peacock his peculiar behavior. However, it is not easy or pleasant to read.

As the story unfolds, and the three men get closer to their goal, the tension becomes almost unbearable. When Bass finally sees a bear, after months of exhausting effort and disappointment, the scene unfolds in classic Bass technicolor with heart racing clarity and insight. "When I am ten yards from that fallen tree - which I am all but ignoring, focusing on the deer - a creature leaps up from behind it, seemingly right in my face, a brown creature with great hunched shoulders. It's a bear with a big head, and for the smallest fraction of time our eyes meet. The bear's round brown eyes are wild in alarm, and mine the same or larger, I'm sure. The bear's rich chocolate color, like a moose and nearly as big, an animal of such immense size that indeed my first thought, the one right before fear, is: That bear's as big as a moose!"

I won't ruin the suspense by telling you what happens next. It should be enough to know that Bass neither disappoints nor fails to find deeper currents of truth running beneath his experience. This is another book that shouldn't be missed. Just don't expect it to reveal its gifts easily.

Guys looking for grizzlies
I agree with another reviewer's comment that this book is largely focused on the guys out looking for grizzlies in Colorado rather than on bears. This made for excellent reading. Bass is a remarkably skilled writer. He puts you right there at the campfire sipping whisky and feasting on wild mushrooms with Peacock and company.

The attitudes of Bass, Peacock and the rest can appear surprisingly negative at times. For example, they seem to have something of a "holier-than-thou" attitude towards other wilderness enthusiasts, in the sense that wilderness advocates wearing suits are laughed at, persons hiking in the woods with colorful gear are "wanna-bes", and young persons also looking for grizzly in the woods are characterized as lackluster. University researchers ("academics") are also cast as ignorant and removed from the wilderness they study. I found this sort of gruff cynicism reminiscent of the Monkey Wrench Gang and hence it had some entertainment value. However, knee-jerk judgements seemingly based on what people wear, and lofty dismissals of others' work didn't help my images of these guys. Just some passing remarks, this book is fantastic.

All in all a great book that makes for a gripping read. ... Read more

Book Description

This text combines treatment of physical anthropology and archaeology and emphasizes human biological and cultural development. Stresses the importance of the biocultural approach and the techniques of paleoanthropology and archaeology for discovering information about the human past. ... Read more

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This is an excellent Anthropology resource!
I had to use this textbook for a college anthropology class recently.I found that reading the book every night was actually enjoyable--it has an incredibly easy reading-style!Also, the authors are very careful to offernumerous opinions on most subjects so that the reader can draw their owninformed opinions.I think this book is excellent for anyone interested inlearning about anthropology or archaeology for the first time.Enjoy! ... Read more

Book Description

The Human Genome Diversity Project was an important controversial research program arising from the debates surrounding the mapping of the human genome. This book, based on a detailed ethnographic study of two laboratories involved in the project, explores issues concerning standardization, naturalization and diversity generated in day-to-day work by scientists and technicians. ... Read more

Book Description

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amazing...
Sperm Whales:Social Evolution in the Ocean is one of the most informative books about odontocetes i have come to read in past two years about cetaceans.Mr. Whitehead's book i consider to be perhaps one of the greatest texts about toothed whales since the ground-breaking work of Ken Norris' The Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin. This is the only book you will find about sperm whales that truly brings you into the realm of this amazing creature. Believe me, all other books relating about this animal pale in comparison to this wonderful work by arguably the greatest cetologist of our day. ... Read more

Book Description

Killer Whales of the World is an in-depth introduction to a ubiquitous, easily recognized, and popular species of marine mammal. Those interested in marine biology, marine animals, and coastal conservation issues as well as animal lovers in general are sure to appreciate this book. This comprehensive and highly informative book explains the origin of the name Killer Whale, where they can be found, their traveling behaviors and feeding habits, and some of the threats they face as a species. It also examines this well-known whale's place in popular culture. ... Read more

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An extensively informative and visually impressive guide
Written by a cetacean biologist Robin W. Baird (who was also part of the team involved with the successful release program for the killer whale "Keiko" in Iceland), Killer Whales Of The World: Natural History And Conservation is an extensively informative and visually impressive guide to the life and habits of these amazing animals, wonderfully illustrated with full-color photography. Individual chapters address killer whale family life, on-going research, conservation efforts, human interactions and more. A captivating account of these amazing mammals, Killer Whales Of The World is very highly recommended reading for marine wildlife enthusiasts. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Delightful and fun
This book is such a gem, easily one of the best books I've read in a long time. It's informative, funny, and written with a very sensitive eye. You really do get to know (and love) each of the memorable characters that visited the author over the years. All the while, you learn a lot of fascinating things about squirrels and how they behave.

I was a little worried when I ordered the book that the author might turn out to be a little too eccentric... you know, a strange "squirrel lady," but she's not at all like that. She's a university professor and a surprisingly good writer who just loves animals and is fearless enough to invite them into her home.

My favorite part was the very funny section where the author takes one of the squirrels to the dentist because of a problem with his lower front teeth.

Squirrely
I loved this book, and not just because I love squirrels. This is a wonderful account of one womans life with her urban squirrel friends in NYC. Having just been to Washington Square Park where the book takes place I can see how these squirrels became so dependant on the kindness of others. This is a great book for those who may not be fans of the squirrel, but who would at least appreciate a good story and like animals. I have been recommending this one to a lot of people I know just for a change of pace in their normal reading, so go get a copy, but don't bury somewhere where you can't find it again.

Excellent book - not sentimental
Really enjoyed this book. I appreciated that the author remained objective and observational throughout - without slipping into sentimentality. I was able to relate to the squirrels directly - rather than through someone's emotional filter. I love squirrels and have befriended many - Grace was able to capture the experience of relating to squirrels. Her insights - and the depth of relationship with them - have deepened my appreciation of squirrels.

CAN'T PUT IT DOWN
I just received this book, and can't put it down! It is great! It is the most informative and personal book on squirrels I have found! I feed a "gang" of squirrels on my windowsill at work and can really identify with the author. All of her observations of squirrels are right on the money!

It's wonderful!
This is a fantastic book. I am nearly done with it, and am dreading finishing! I will miss Genius, Sweetie Longtail, The Lady and all the other memorable squirrels described herein.

The book reads quickly and it is engrossing. Anyone who appreciates animals will enjoy this book. It makes me wish I had squirrels @ my window...though I do have to admit to feeling a little bit concerned at the impact humans feeding wildlife may have on the animals. However, putting those worries aside I can't stress enough how great this book is. I think that teenagers would also like it. ... Read more