04.2 found 3 records - Research Collections - Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies

Abstract: In less than a century, a bison population that once numbered in the millions and stretched across North America was reduced to just a few dozen animals primarily in Yellowstone National Park. DeSilvestro explores one of the greatest conservation comeback stories in American history-- yet its "success" is qualified. Most bison today live in commercial herds, contained like cattle. Are we willing to coexist with them as wild animals who need freedom to roam? -- Excerpt from back cover

Contents: In the beginning -- When science favors extinction -- Where buffalo roam, again: early restoration -- American bison step out of the ER -- Private herds : hopes, aspirations, roads to recovery -- Tribes : finding home -- Lost herds : Mexico and Canada -- The way of the wisent -- The last refuge -- Building a future for bison.

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Abstract: The Secret Life of Flies takes readers into the hidden world of snail killers, con artists, crazy sex and a great many silly names. It dispels common misconceptions about flies and reveals how truly extraordinary, exotic and important are these misunderstood creatures. In clear language, McAlister explains Diptera taxonomy and forensic entomology, and describes the potential of flies to transform their relationship with humans from one of disease vector to partner in environmental preservation. She has a wonderful knack for storytelling, deftly transforming what could be dry descriptions of biology, reproduction and morphology into entertainment. She takes readers to piles of poo in Ethiopia by way of underground caves, latrines and backyard gardens, and opens the drawers at the Natural History Museum to rhapsodize over her favorite flies. -- Provided by publisher.

Contents: Introduction -- The immature ones -- The pollinators -- The detritivores -- The coprophages -- The necrophages -- The vegetarians -- The fungivores -- The predators -- The parasites -- The sanguivores -- The end -- Further reading -- Index -- Picture credits -- Acknowledgements

Notes: Previously published: Richmond Hill, Ontario; Buffalo, New York: Firefly Books Ltd., 2017.

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Abstract: Rare Air, the culmination of artist Sarah Kaizar's dedication to illustrating endangered fauna, features 66 endangered species of flight--33 birds, 5 bats, 12 bees, and 16 butterflies--presented in her scientifically accurate and utterly engaging pen-and-ink style. Complementing the art are informative and story-driven natural histories of each species by writer A. Scott Meiser, as well as interviews with biologists who are working to sustain some of the same species. An introduction highlights how Kaizar developed this project, while the "How to Get Involved" appendix provides helpful tips on actions readers can take to help these creatures. Kaizar's work informs readers about the world around them in a way that is beautiful and engaging, while also examining the environmental conditions that put these species at risk. Rare Air broadens the conversation about environmental study and inspires readers across the country to care for our winged creatures. -- Provided by publisher.

Contents: Introduction : conservation on the wing -- Rare air species. Field feature : bird data : counts, migrations, trends -- Field feature : indigenous resource managements -- Field feature : bat conservation international -- Field feature : nurdle patrol -- Acknowledgments -- References -- How to get involved -- Species index.

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