Book Description
While observing a family group of elephants in the wild, Caitlin O'Connell, a young field scientist, noticed a peculiar listening behavior. A matriarch she had been watching for months turned her massive head and lifted her foot off the ground. As she scanned the horizon, the other elephants followed suit, all facing the same direction. O'Connell soon made a groundbreaking discovery: the elephants were "listening through limbs," feeling the ripples of the earth's surface for approaching friends and enemies. Through their feet, toenails, trunks, and other, subtler modes of communication, these enormous animals were communicating to one another, demonstrating the vital importance of social relationships in their lives.
Yet this grand revelation about the intelligence of wild animals is also a story of the relationship between humans and elephants as neighbors, vying for the same resources of an increasingly crowded continent. For when O'Connell was first contracted by the Namibian government to develop new methods to deter elephants from raiding villagers' crops, she was unprepared for what she would encounter -- political upheaval, tribal disputes, inhumane poachers, and a fundamentally ineffective approach to wildlife conservation. Despite these setbacks, she came to know and love each of the fascinating, unique elephants under her watchful eye, while at the same time witnessing a change in attitude and policy, providing hope for the elephant's future.
An unforgettable journey of scientific discovery, The Elephant's Secret Sense takes you deep into the wilds of Namibia, from the tops of isolated, desert observation towers to the jaws and claws of ravenous lions to aerial expeditions and dusty highways, where the naturalists do their difficult work in a troubled land threatened by expanding human populations and unstable politics. Resonant with the powerful calls of the mysterious elephant, this is a story about the resilience of nature and the inspiring, astonishing, and often heartbreaking places where humans and wild animals come together.
Customer Reviews:
Not Animals in Translation..........2007-05-20
I was expecting a book similar to Temple Grandin's Animals in Translation. Unfortunately, this book is very much unlike that book. I expected the bulk of this book to focus specifically on elephant communication, but that is not the case. Much time is spent on African conservation in general and the history of certain African areas where she was stationed. When I bought the book, it was not to read about local tribes or their politics, it was to read about elephant communication. Not saying the other topics aren't interesting, but if I wanted to read about those, I would have bought a book specifically on that. Making things worse, her style of writing is very disjointed and skips around.
There are not many books that I don't finish reading, but this was one of them. I was very much looking forward to reading this book based on the reviews. Not sure why there was such a disconnect. Maybe it's expectations. If you are expecting a more in-depth book specifically on elephant communication, with lots of scientific detail, this isn't it.
Who Knew Elephants Hear With Their Toes!.......2007-05-13
Anyone who is interested in African elephants and their rich and amazing lives will find this an interesting read. Caitlin has added hugely to the body of knowledge about Elephant communication. It is part adventure story, as most intrepid young scientists who venture into Africa for their PHD theses discover. It tells of the beauty and terror and difficulties of this most diverse land and her rich wildlife.
Caitlin's book tells of her discoveries, elephant communication research, years of working with people in the Caprivi region to combat Elephant/Human conflict as well as her memorable times in hides stalked by lion and all the other adventures.
The book is well written for the most part, does lose some momentum toward the end of the book but this would appraer to be editing rather than Caitlin's writing. I thoroughly reccomend it.
A must for animal lovers, host of Animal Tails.......2007-04-28
An intricate balance exists between humans and nature that undergirds even the most basic experiences. Ecological researcher, Caitlin O'Connell has spent her professional life exploring the lesser-known aspects of this relationship through her study of elephant behavior in sub-Saharan Africa, shedding light on their value within society and promoting the need for continued conservation and outreach. In THE ELEPHANT'S SECRET SENSE: The Hidden Life of the Wild Herds of Africa , O'Connell uncovers the fascinating and complex communication system of elephants, and conveys the deeper importance of this astounding discovery on modern African society.
An absolute page-turner.......2007-04-06
This book is a fascinating look into the world of elephants and the scientists who study them. I was humbled by Caitlin O'Connell's courageous, intelligent, and compassionate approach to working with these complex animals and the people who must learn to share the land with them.
An astounding achievement and truly riveting story.......2007-03-16
I read this whole book from start to finish on a series of flights that I took recently and I was totally taken with the story and the science behind it. I couldn't put it down and I haven't read a book in 10yrs! From a phenomenal underlying technological journey merges the principles of many scientific disciplines ranging from zoology, biology, acoustics, geophysics, chemistry, mechanics, electronics, mathematics, not to mention anthropology.
As a physicist, I loved the explanation of acoustic coupling and aliasing, a very impressive bridge, making connections between fundamental processes that are essential in tying together a very complex phenomenon.
There were tragic elements to the story that were horrific and left me in tears, but at the same time, a remarkable account of caring and human bonding. Congratulations to the author. I can't wait for her next book!
Book Description
Wildlife-Habitat Relationships goes beyond introductory wildlife biology texts to provide wildlife professionals and students with an understanding of the importance of habitat relationships in studying and managing wildlife. The book offers a unique synthesis and critical evaluation of data, methods, and studies, along with specific guidance on how to conduct rigorous studies. Now in its third edition, Wildlife-Habitat Relationships combines basic field zoology and natural history, evolutionary biology, ecological theory, and quantitative tools in explaining ecological processes and their influence on wildlife and habitats. Also included is a glossary of terms that every wildlife professional should know. Michael L. Morrison is professor and Caesar Kleberg Chair in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation in the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences at Texas A&M University in College Station. Bruce G. Marcot is wildlife ecologist with the USDA Forest Service in Portland, Oregon. R. William Mannan is professor of wildlife ecology at the University of Arizona in Tucson.
Customer Reviews:
in the middle leaning to the not so good and the good side........2001-08-08
I would probally regret buying this book, even if i do like animals. The book WILDLIFE-HABITAT RELATIONSHIPS:..... SEEMS KIND OF BORING.
Good overview of traditional concepts and techniques.......2000-06-16
Morrison et al.'s second edition of Wildlife-Habitat Relationships: Concepts and Applications is a welcome overview of the state of the art in the mid-1990s. The authors examine their subject from three complementary viewpoints: basic concepts, measurement and analysis, and management. Individual concepts are presented very clearly and the writing is first-rate. The authors provide a level of detail appropriate to an introductory overview.
While this text is suitable for an undergraduate course and provides an excellent basic reference, seasoned professionals may find it lacking. For example, more recent numerical techniques (such as resource selection functions) are beyond the book's scope. Nevertheless, "Wildlife-Habitat Relationships" is admirably up-to-date in many respects, including excellent discussions of experimental approaches and scale, and I've referred to it many times during the course of my own Ph.D. work.
Average customer rating:
- Perfect for undergrads and beginners in primatology
- An excellent collection of skillfully introduced papers.
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Primate Anthology, The: Essays on Primate Behavior, Ecology and Conservation from Natural History
Russell L. Ciochon , and
Richard A. Nisbett
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
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Primate Behavioral Ecology (3rd Edition)
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Primate Diversity
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The Nonhuman Primates
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Peacemaking among Primates
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Primate Adaptation And Evolution
ASIN: 0136138454 |
Book Description
Offers a multi-disciplinary and cross-disciplinary perspective. this anthology offers a collection of 33 readings on primate behavior, ecology, and conservation — originally published in Natural History Magazine.
Customer Reviews:
Perfect for undergrads and beginners in primatology.......2000-05-28
This book is a wonderful introduction to primate behavior, ecology and conservation. A collection of articles originally published in Natural History magazine, this book provides a perfect balance of the above topics in primatology. If you are just getting started in the field or you are simply curious about our primate cousins this book is great. If you are a seasoned primatologist, this is a fun weekend read!
An excellent collection of skillfully introduced papers........1998-02-19
Natural History magazine has published a wealth of information about primates, written by leading experts in field research. Students of primatology, and anyone interested in animal behavior and ecology, will find this anthology relevant and informative. These studies demonstrate the diversity of our closest animal relatives and the intricacies of their lives and relationships amongst themselves and with other species.
The writings of field scientists such asChristophe Boesch, Robert Harding, Dawn Starin, Thomas Struhsaker and Patricia Wright cover wide taxonomic and geographic ranges. The editors' glue that effectively binds these essays together is the excellent prefacing overview accompanying each section (Behavior, Community Ecology, Diet, Reproduction and Conservation). These writings demonstrate the skills of biologists in translating field observations into literate and eminently readable images of their primate subjects.
This anthology provides valuable testimony tothe contributions of field studies in understanding our primate kin-- their context in nature, and the strategies they employ for coping with daily life and the encroachments of mankind.
Phillip T. Robinson - Society for the Renewal of Nature Conservation in Liberia, West Africa
Book Description
Otters are highly charismatic and popular animals of very considerable concern to conservationists worldwide. Written by the pre-eminent authority in the field, this book builds on the reputation of the author's landmark monograph of the European otter, Wild Otters (OUP, 1995). Furthermore,
its broader scope to include all species of otter in North America as well as Europe and elsewhere leads to a deeper synthesis that greatly expands the book's overall relevance and potential readership.
Aimed at naturalists, scientists and conservationists, its personal style and generously illustrated text will appeal to amateurs and professionals alike. It emphasizes recent research and conservation management initiatives for all 13 species of otter worldwide, incorporates recent molecular
research on taxonomy and population genetics, and discusses the wider implications of otter studies for ecology and conservation biology.
As well as enchanting direct observations of the animals, there is guidance about how and where to watch and study them. From otters in the British and American lakes and rivers, to sea otters in the Pacific Ocean, giant otters in the Amazon and other species in Africa and Asia, this book provides
an engaging approach to their fascinating existence, to the science needed to understand it, and to the very real threats to their survival.
Amazon.com
The moose, the largest living member of the family that includes deer and elk, is the beneficiary of a rare change of environmental fortune that has worked out to nature's advantage. Thanks to careful conservation policies, the moose has expanded its range significantly in the last century, growing in numbers and spreading beyond its native range throughout subarctic North America and Eurasia to new homes in the southern Rocky Mountains and southern Scandinavia.
Russian-born scientist Valerius Geist, a longtime contributor to National Geographic and other popular publications, here offers a highly readable, affectionate, and entertaining natural history of the moose. In text accompanied by Michael Francis's color photographs, Geist explains why moose are small in some places and large in others (the more mature the plant environment in which it lives, the smaller the moose); discusses migratory patterns, mating habits, social organization, and other aspects of ecology; and honors the moose's highly developed intelligence ("moose," he writes, "are programmed for learning"). With continued conservation efforts and continued goodwill on the part of humans, Geist foresees a healthy future for the moose, even in the face of global climate change that threatens the creature's favored habitats. --Gregory McNamee
Book Description
In outstanding photos and authoritative text, Moose covers the natural history of moose around the world, including range, diet, personality traits, breeding, social structure, and their interaction with humans both today and in history. Geist, a zoologist and professor, details the threats they face, and he passionately pleads for their preservation. Moose also includes sidebars and appendices, plus a list of organizations involved in moose issues. For moose hunters, naturalists, & wildlife photographers.
Valerius Geist of Port Alberni, British Columbia is the author of Voyageur Press' Buffalo Nation: History and Legend of the North American Bison and Mountain Sheep, for which he won the 1972 Book of the Year Award from The Wildlife Society. He has also been a consultant to the National Geographic Society on several books and television specials.
Michael H. Francis of Billings, Montana is an internationally recognized wildlife photographer whose work has appeared in dozens of books and magazines. His images appeared in Voyageur Press' A Wilderness Called Grand Canyon, Black Bear: Seasons in the Wild, Buffalo Nation, Grizzly Bears, Eagles: Masters of the Sky, Majestic Whitetails, Majestic Elk, and many others.
Also recommended: Bears: Behavior, Ecology, Conservation; Elk: Behavior, Ecology, Conservation; Mule Deer: Behavior, Ecology, Conservation; Big Game of North America; Antlers.
Customer Reviews:
Fantastic!.......2006-12-18
This book is Great! I enjoyed every word of it. The information that Valerius Geist shares with us is very interesting! I haven't been so excited while reading a book in a while. He provides all kinds of great information on evolution, habits, habitats, diet, survival tactics, the rut, and the raising of a new generation and some information on the moose's future and relationship with man, as well as some interesting stories from his own personal experiences! The photos are amazing as well! This book, I felt walked the line of being very informative, but not to complicated. It is definitely a book that appeals to a broad audience. If you are interested in moose, pick up this book!
Fascinating look at a fascinating creature.......2001-02-04
Since a child, moose have always amazed me. Turning to popular wildlife texts, however, I found that very few such books ever mentioned these magnificent deer. Finally a book has come along to fill this void.
Dr. Geist is a renown expert in cervid biology and conservation. His expertise regarding moose ecology in North America and Eurasia shines through every page of this book. He has the rare ability to combine personal experiences with potentially dry biology information to produce very readable prose. I truly enjoyed this text! The accompanying photos were also spectacular. I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in the moose.
A scientific journey of discovery.......1999-12-14
Val Geist is world renown as the dean of behavioral ecologists (ethologists) of the hooved mammals (ungulates) of the northern hemisphere. Fritz Walther, an extraordinary ungulate ethologist in his own right, once described Geist as having a mind that combines the vastness of the Russian Steppe (Geist's natal homeland), with the meticulousness of Germany (where he spent his youth) and the audacity of North America (where he has spent his adulthood). Bull's eye.
I know of no wildlife biologist with greater depth of knowledge and creative insight, or greater courage and dedication in applying his knowledge to the challenge of real world conservation.
Coming full circle, Geist has finally writen an entire book devoted to the moose, an animal whose behavior he (like I) studied extensively during his youth.
We who have had the pleasure of reading his numerous other books and scientific papers know that each leads the reader on a rare and delightful intellectual journey of discovery. His insights are always fresh and vibrant, built on an extraordinarily wide knowledge of the literature combined with in depth firsthand knowledge. This book is no exception.
To any reader seriously interested in moose or just wildlife in general, this work is an extraordinary find.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent book, a must have for zoologists.......2006-06-03
I am a zookeeper in an accredited zoological institution and this book is a must read as we care for captive animals. A comprehensive enrichment program is critical for wild animals in captive environments as these programs provide the animals with choices, complexities, and change. The guiding principle for enrichment is based on the animal's natural history. This book very appropriately emphasizes the requirement of enrichment for the animal's well being. Read this book and it will give you hope.
Excellent book!.......2004-07-19
This is my must have book (bible) for my research on environmental enrichment. If you work with animals in a captive situation, you need to read this book. The book also deals with stereotypy. A lot of excellent information on enrichment and its implications for captive animals. If you are at all interested in environmental enrichment or currently implement an enrichment program for your animals, do yourself a favor and read this book.
A nice surprise.......2004-04-15
I bought "Ethics on the Ark" at the same time as this book, and was disappointed with that book. This book, however, was a very nice surprise. I felt it gave a unbiased view of captive animal enrichment, and the ethics behind keeping animals in captivity. I appreciated the completeness of this book, starting from a historical perspective, straight through to modern reasoning. I would say this is a must have for anyone working with animals in a captive environment.
excelente review of environmental enrichment.......1999-03-21
A book that had to be written. This book is a good and basic guide for people working or interested in environmental enrichment. Several aspects are covered by the book, from theoretical bases to the implications to use enrichment for the conservation and welfare of wild animals. However, although it gives a lots of examples on mammals and some on reptiles, it forgets birds.
Book Description
The Living Elephants is the authoritative resource for information on both Asian and African elephants. From the ancient origins of the proboscideans to the present-day crisis of the living elephants, this volume synthesizes the behavior, ecology and conservation of elephants, while covering also the history of human interactions with elephants, all within the theoretical framework of evolutionary biology. The book begins with a survey of the 60-million year evolutionary history of the proboscideans emphasizing the role of climate and vegetation change in giving rise to a bewildering array of species, but also discussing the possible role of humans in the late Pleistocene extinction of mastodonts and mammoths. The latest information on the molecular genetics of African and Asian elephants and its taxonomic implications are then presented. The rise of the elephant culture in Asia, and its early demise in Africa are traced along with an original interpretation of this unique animal-human relationship. The book then moves on to the social life of elephants as it relates to reproductive strategies of males and females, development of behavior in young, communication, ranging patterns, and societal organization. The foraging strategies of elephants, their impact on the vegetation and landscape are then discussed. The dynamics of elephant populations in relation to hunting for ivory and their population viability are described with the aid of mathematical models. A detailed account of elephant-human interactions includes a treatment of crop depredation by elephants in relation to their natural ecology, manslaughter by elephants, habitat manipulation by humans, and a history of the ivory trade and poaching in the two continents. The ecological information is brought together in the final chapter to formulate a set of pragmatic recommendations for the long-term conservation of elephants. The broadest treatment of the subject yet undertaken, by one of the leading workers in the field, Raman Sukumar, the book promises to bring the understanding of elephants to a new level. It should be of interest not only to biologists but also a broader audience including field ecologists, wildlife administrators, historians, conservationists and all those interested in elephants and their future.
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Dispersal
Jean Clobert
Manufacturer: Oxford University Press, USA
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Spatial Ecology
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Ecology, Genetics and Evolution of Metapopulations
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The Theory of Island Biogeography (Princeton Landmarks in Biology)
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Model Selection and Multi-Model Inference
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A Primer of Ecological Statistics
ASIN: 0198506597 |
Book Description
The ability of species to migrate that has interested ecologists for many years. Now that so many species and ecosystems face major environmental change, the ability of species to adapt to these changes by dispersing, migrating, or moving between different patches of habitat can be crucial to ensuring their survivial. This book provides a timely and wide-ranging overview of the study of dispersal and incorporates much of the latest research. The causes, mechanisms, and consequences of dispersal at the individual, population, species and community levels are considered. The potential of new techniques and models for studying dispersal, drawn from molecular biology and demography, is also explored. Perspectives and insights are offered from the fields of evolution, conservation biology and genetics. Throughout the book, theoretical approaches are combined with empirical data, and care has been taken to include examples from as wide a range of species as possible.
Book Description
Most large herbivores require some type of management within their habitats. Some populations of large herbivores are at the brink of extinction, some are under discussion for reintroduction, whilst others already occur in dense populations causing conflicts with other land use. Large herbivores are the major drivers for forming the shape and function of terrestrial ecosystems. This book addresses the scientifically based action plans to manage both the large herbivore populations and their habitats worldwide. It covers the processes by which large herbivores not only affect their environment (e.g. grazing) but are affected by it (e.g. nutrient cycling) and the management strategies required. Also discussed are new modeling techniques, which help assess integration processes in a landscape context, as well as assessing the consequences of new developments in the processes of conservation. This book will be essential reading for all involved in the management of both large herbivores and natural resources.
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From Individual Behaviour to Population Ecology (Oxford Series in Ecology and Evolution)
William J. Sutherland
Manufacturer: Oxford University Press, USA
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ASIN: 0198549105 |
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Population dynamics and animal behavior are two subjects which have developed almost independently, despite widespread acceptance of the idea that they must be related. This book provides a novel framework for combining these two subjects and considers a range of conservation issues. The
author suggests how to extrapolate from behavioral interactions to population-level phenomena; each chapter presents a combination of theory and empirical examples, including modelling techniques. Students and researchers in animal behavior, population ecology, and conservation biology will welcome
this new approach.
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- The Nature of Consciousness : The Structure of Reality: Theory of Everything Equation Revealed : Scientific Verification and Proof of Logic God Is
- The New Media Reader
- The New Media Reader
- The Passion of the Western Mind: Understanding the Ideas that Have Shaped Our World View
- The Photoshop CS2 Book for Digital Photographers (Voices That Matter)
- The Selfish Gene: 30th Anniversary Edition--with a new Introduction by the Author
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