Ethology and animal behaviour Books

207 products


  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals

    University of California Press The Behavior Guide to African Mammals

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisAllows us to understand what animals do and what their behavior means. This title describes and explains the behavior of four major groups of mammals.Trade Review"Whether we are able to look at them face to face, on television, or in the hundreds of illustrations provided here by Daniel Otte, this guide allows us to understand what animals do and what their behavior means. Drawing on his own extensive fieldwork and on the research of many other scientists, Richard Despard Estes describes and explains the behavior of four major groups of mammals. Estes's remarkably informative guide is as up-to-date (as of 1992) for the zoologist as it is accessible for the interested onlooker." * The Guardian *"Outstanding. . . .For anyone who's planning or remembering an African safari, or is fascinated by the continent's wildlife." * Chicago Sun Times *Table of ContentsForeword by Edward 0. Wilson Preface Guide to the Guide Part I. Hoofed Mammals: Antelopes and Other Ruminants 1. Introduction to the Ruminants 2. Antelopes and Buffalo: Family Bovidae 3· Duikers: Tribe Cephalophini 4· Dwarf Antelopes: Tribe Neotragini 5· Gazelles and Their Allies: Tribe Antilopini 6. Reedbucks, Kob, and Waterbuck: Tribe Reduncini 7. Horse Antelopes: Tribe Hippotragini 8. Hartebeests, Topi, Blesbok, and Wildebeests: Tribe Alcelaphini 9· Bushbuck, Kudus, and Elands: Tribe Tragelaphini 10. Buffaloes and Cattle: Tribe Bovini 11. Giraffe and Okapi: Family Giraffidae Part II. Hoofed Mammals: Nonruminants 12. Swine:FamilySuidae 13. Hippopotamuses: Family Hippopotamidae 14. Rhinoceroses: Family Rhinocerotidae 15. Zebras, Asses, and Horses: Family Equidae 16. Hyraxes: Order Hyracoidea, Family Procaviidae 17. Elephants: Order Proboscidea, Family Elephantidae Part III. Carnivores 18. Introduction to Carnivores 19. Genets, Civets, and Mongooses: Family Viverridae 20. Hyenas and Aardwolf: Family Hyaenidae 21. Cats: Family Felidae 22. Foxes, Jackals, and Dogs: Family Canidae 23. Weasels, Otters, Zorilla, and Ratel: Family Mustelidae Part IV. Primates 24. Introduction to Primates 25. Bush Babies and Pottos: Family Lorisidae 26. Old World Monkeys: Communication in the Family Cercopithecidae 27. Guenons, Mangabeys, and Baboons: Subfamily Cercopithecinae 28. Colobus Monkeys: Subfamily Colobinae 29. Great Apes: Family Pongidae Glossary Bibliography Additional References Added in Proof Index

    15 in stock

    £32.30

  • The Dog Listener

    HarperCollins Publishers The Dog Listener

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisYou've heard of the Horse Whisperer now meet the woman who uses similar methods to train dogs.Jan Fennell's remarkable gifts have earned her the nickname the dog listener. Her unique understanding of the canine world and its instinctive language has enabled her to bring even the most desperate and delinquent of dogs to heel.This easy-to-follow guide to understanding Jan's simple techniques draws on her countless case histories of problem dogs from biters and barkers to bicycle chasers to show how we can bridge the language barrier that separates man from his best friend.In The Dog Listener Jan shares her secrets, telling us how she grew determined to find a more compassionate alternative to standard obedience training techniques and ultimately how to communicate with canines.

    15 in stock

    £10.44

  • The Trials of Life

    HarperCollins Publishers The Trials of Life

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisThe third and final updated edition of David Attenborough's classic Life trilogy. Life on Earth covered evolution, Living Planet , ecology, and now The Trials of Life tackles ethology, the study of how animals behave.Trade ReviewPraise for the New Edition of Life on Earth: ‘It does not disappoint. The new Life on Earth is as glorious as the first’ Guardian ‘A beautiful and wide ranging work. The breadth of natural history covered is extraordinary and mesmerising. Life on Earth is still breathtakingly rich, and we would know far less about it were it not for Attenborough’s wonderful skills of communication over the years: our cultural and scientific lives would be poorer without him’ New Scientist ‘This natural history masterpiece offers a spectacular snapshot of a once-wild planet’ New Scientist Praise for David Attenborough: ‘A marvellous book … unputdownable … utterly engaging’ Telegraph ‘An elegant and gently funny writer’ The Times ‘His writing is as impressive and as enjoyable as his TV programmes and there can be no higher praise’ Daily Express ‘A great educator as well as a great naturalist’ Barack Obama ‘Sir David is a wizard of television, and, like Gandalf or Dumbledore, he has a near-magical gift for combining warmth and gravitas . . . the man who, for me, exemplifies the best in British broadcasting’ Louis Theroux ‘When I was a young boy I used to love turning on the television and watching David's programmes and really feeling like I was either back out in Africa or I was learning about something magical and almost out of this planet’ HRH Prince William

    15 in stock

    £10.44

  • The Puppy Listener

    HarperCollins Publishers The Puppy Listener

    5 in stock

    Book SynopsisAn indispensible guide to raising your new puppy from the author of The Dog Listener. From teething to training, this book follows the development of your puppy from new pet to best friend.In The Puppy Listener Jan Fennell presents a simple-to-follow yet detailed handbook for puppy owners. Whether this is your first pup or you are a seasoned dog-owner, the hints and tips in this concise guide are valuable and well informed.This handy guide follows the life of your puppy from weaning to walking. Jan Fennell covers every aspect of caring for your new best friend from introducing a puppy into its new home and handling it in public, to dealing with behavioural problems. With detailed sections on everything from exercise to diet, there are problem-solving guides dealing with worries such as biting or anxiety.Once again Jan illustrates her points with entertaining and inspiring real-life cases from her own work with damaged and delinquent dogs. Her love of animals is contagious and she inspires owners to persevere with their pups and show them who is boss.The book contains photographs and plate sections which accompany the text.Trade Review'British dog owner Jan Fennell has devised a revolutionary method of training. It's gentle, simple and remarkably effective.'Mail on Sunday 'Jan Fennell may not have danced with wolves, but she's stood nose to nose with them – and if she was given half a chance, I'm sure she could make lions lie down with lambs.'Daily Record

    5 in stock

    £9.49

  • Kitty Language

    Penguin Books Ltd Kitty Language

    5 in stock

    Book SynopsisWant to know what your cat is really thinking and doing?In Kitty Language, animal illustrator Lili Chin explains everything you need to read your cat''s body language. With sections dedicated to their ears, whiskers, tail and more, you''ll gain deeper knowledge into many feline behaviours, including sniffing, scratching, play-hunting, chattering and tail flipping. And you''ll learn the answers to questions such as: does my cat want to be petted, or do they need space? Are they feeling confident, frightened, relaxed or frustrated? What do they need to feel safe, secure, stimulated and happy?Backed by scientific research, endorsed by animal behaviourists and vets, and packed with playful illustrations, Kitty Language is bursting with information for cat lovers.

    5 in stock

    £12.34

  • An Introduction to Behavioural Ecology

    John Wiley and Sons Ltd An Introduction to Behavioural Ecology

    1 in stock

    Book Synopsis* Covers the influence of natural selection on behaviour an animal s struggle to survive and reproduce by exploiting and competing for resources, avoiding predators, selecting mates and caring for offspring, and how animal societies reflect both cooperation and conflict among individuals.Trade Review“Altogether this is an excellent introductory text, with full and balanced coverage, easy to read and, to the publisher’s credit, a physically attractive book. It does the authors great credit that they have so refreshed an enduring classic.” (Austral Ecology, 20 July 2015) “… a new edition of the textbook that has introduced generations of undergraduates (and postgraduates) to the delights of behavioural ecology, inspiring many (myself included) to take up the discipline professionally, is a rare treat. Behavioural ecology is, fundamentally, modern-day natural history and there is no clearer written, more inspiringly enthusiastic guide to the subject on the market. This book sets the gold standard for behavioural ecology and animal behaviour textbooks which will no doubt continue to inform and delight students and researchers in equal measure for many years to come.” (Animal Behaviour, 1 March 2013) “Overall, this seems a timely update to a very useful book; it should be widely used by lecturers and undergraduates alike.” (British Ecological Society Bulletin, 1 December 2012) “[An Introduction to Behavioural Ecology, 4th Edition] Stands tall as the textbook to have in the field of Behavioral Ecology...I expect anyone with an A level in Biology, or equivalent, or an interest in Zoology without the qualification, could pick this book up and get a lot out of it...What this book is, is good science explained well, I scored higher in my behavioral ecology exam than I did in any other exam in my finals. I wouldn’t put that entirely down to this book, but it certainly influenced things. The book is well printed, as you would expect, with great clear photographs used liberally, and a lot of graphs and diagrams. In summary then, if you want to know why animals behave the way they do, why swordtail fish do really have the long tails, why birds sing, why fish shoal under certain circumstances, why well fed parrot females produce more males, and why related long-tailed tits help each other raise young, then this book really is for you. I recommend it wholeheartedly.” (The Amateur Naturalist magazine, 1 November 2012) “The book opens with a section on Watching and Wondering, capturing the excitement of natural history, that same wonderment that Kruuk describes so well, and then guides the reader through a series of fascinating questions and findings, experiments and field studies. . . This is clearly good for students wishing to put together presentations for assessments, and extremely useful for lecturers, new and old . . I should say that this is a certainty and future generations will owe this book a considerable debt.” (Journal of Evolutionary Psychology, 1 October 2012) “Among the most influential books in the field of behavioral ecology, An Introduction to Behavioural Ecology certainly stands out to the extent that it has been called ‘a classic textbook.” (Trends in Ecology & Evolution, 2012) “The long-awaited update to a classic in this field is now here, presenting new direc­tions in thinking and addressing burning questions. Richly informed by progress in many other disciplines, such as sensory physiology, genetics and evolutionary theory, it marks the emergence of behav­ioural ecology as a fully fledged discipline….. This is a marvellous book, written in a lucid style. A must-read for those in the field, it is also a cornucopia of new thinking for anyone interested in evolution and behaviour.” (Manfred Milinski, Nature, 2012)Table of ContentsPreface x Acknowledgements xiii 1 Natural Selection, Ecology and Behaviour 1 Watching and wondering 1 Natural selection 5 Genes and behaviour 6 Selfish individuals or group advantage? 11 Phenotypic plasticity: climate change and breeding times 18 Behaviour, ecology and evolution 21 Summary 22 Further reading 22 Topics for discussion 23 2 Testing Hypotheses in Behavioural Ecology 24 The comparative approach 25 Breeding behaviour of gulls in relation to predation risk 26 Social organization of weaver birds 28 Social organization in African ungulates 30 Limitations of early comparative studies 31 Comparative approach to primate ecology and behaviour 33 Using phylogenies in comparative analysis 37 The comparative approach reviewed 45 Experimental studies of adaptation 46 Summary 49 Further reading 50 Topics for discussion 51 3 Economic Decisions and the Individual 52 The economics of carrying a load 52 The economics of prey choice 59 Sampling and information 62 The risk of starvation 63 Environmental variability, body reserves and food storing 65 Food storing birds: from behavioural ecology to neuroscience 66 The evolution of cognition 71 Feeding and danger: a trade-off 73 Social learning 75 Optimality models and behaviour: an overview 79 Summary 81 Further reading 82 Topics for discussion 82 4 Predators versus Prey: Evolutionary Arms Races 83 Red Queen evolution 83 Predators versus cryptic prey 86 Enhancing camouflage 92 Warning colouration: aposematism 95 Mimicry 100 Trade-offs in prey defences 103 Cuckoos versus hosts 105 Summary 113 Further reading 114 Topics for discussion 114 5 Competing for Resources 116 The Hawk–Dove game 116 Competition by exploitation: the ideal free distribution 119 Competition by resource defence: the despotic distribution 123 The ideal free distribution with unequal competitors 123 The economics of resource defence 126 Producers and scroungers 130 Alternative mating strategies and tactics 131 ESS thinking 142 Animal personalities 143 Summary 144 Further reading 145 Topics for discussion 146 6 Living in Groups 147 How grouping can reduce predation 148 How grouping can improve foraging 159 Evolution of group living: shoaling in guppies 163 Group size and skew 164 Group decision making 169 Summary 177 Further reading 177 Topics for discussion 178 7 Sexual Selection, Sperm Competition and Sexual Conflict 179 Males and females 180 Parental investment and sexual competition 182 Why do females invest more in offspring care than do males? 184 Evidence for sexual selection 186 Why are females choosy? 189 Genetic benefits from female choice: two hypotheses 194 Testing the hypotheses for genetic benefits 196 Sexual selection in females and male choice 201 Sex differences in competition 204 Sperm competition 205 Constraints on mate choice and extra-pair matings 208 Sexual conflict 209 Sexual conflict: who wins? 216 Chase-away sexual selection 218 Summary 220 Further reading 221 Topics for discussion 221 8 Parental Care and Family Conflicts 223 Evolution of parental care 223 Parental investment: a parent’s optimum 227 Varying care in relation to costs and benefits 229 Sexual conflict 232 Sibling rivalry and parent–offspring conflict: theory 238 Sibling rivalry: evidence 240 Parent–offspring conflict: evidence 243 Brood parasites 249 Summary 252 Further reading 252 Topics for discussion 253 9 Mating Systems 254 Mating systems with no male parental care 254 Mating systems with male parental care 264 A hierarchical approach to mating system diversity 279 Summary 280 Further reading 281 Topics for discussion 281 10 Sex Allocation 282 Fisher’s theory of equal investment 285 Sex allocation when relatives interact 286 Sex allocation in variable environments 296 Selfish sex ratio distorters 304 Summary 305 Further reading 305 Topics for discussion 306 11 Social Behaviours: Altruism to Spite 307 Kin selection and inclusive fitness 308 Hamilton’s rule 313 How do individuals recognize kin? 318 Kin selection doesn’t need kin discrimination 322 Selfish restraint and kin selection 325 Spite 327 Summary 331 Further reading 332 Topics for discussion 333 12 Cooperation 334 What is cooperation? 334 Free riding and the problem of cooperation 336 Solving the problem of cooperation 337 Kin selection 339 Hidden benefits 341 By-product benefit 341 Reciprocity 345 Enforcement 350 A case study – the Seychelles Warbler 354 Manipulation 356 Summary 358 Further reading 358 Topics for discussion 359 13 Altruism and Conflict in the Social Insects 360 The social insects 360 The life cycle and natural history of a social insect 364 The economics of eusociality 366 The pathway to eusociality 366 The haplodiploidy hypothesis 367 The monogamy hypothesis 371 The ecological benefits of cooperation 375 Conflict within insect societies 379 Conflict over the sex ratio in the social hymenoptera 379 Worker policing in the social hymenoptera 386 Superorganisms 389 Comparison of vertebrates with insects 390 Summary 392 Further reading 392 Topics for discussion 393 14 Communication and Signals 394 The types of communication 395 The problem of signal reliability 396 Indices 397 Handicaps 405 Common interest 411 Human language 416 Dishonest signals 417 Summary 421 Further reading 422 Topics for discussion 423 15 Conclusion 424 How plausible are our main premises? 424 Causal and functional explanations 436 A final comment 438 Summary 441 Further reading 441 References 442 Index 489

    1 in stock

    £44.60

  • How Animals Grieve

    The University of Chicago Press How Animals Grieve

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisScientists have long cautioned against attributing familiar emotions to animals, arguing that it limits our ability to truly comprehend the lives of other creatures. The author focuses on the specific case of grief, and relates story after story - from field sites, farms, and homes - of animals mourning lost companions, mates, or friends.Trade Review"I recommend this book to anyone who doubts that animals grieve. The evidence presented is overwhelming." (EcoLit) "Admirably, carefully, and cautiously reviews and synthesizes a topic that is of great interest to numerous people, including those who are fortunate enough to live with nonhuman companions, those who are lucky enough to study them, and those who are interested in other animals for a wide variety of reasons." (Marc Bekoff, Psychology Today) "King's thoughtful, warm-hearted prose will raise awareness and amaze readers." (Publishers Weekly) "A touching and provocative exploration of the latest research on animal minds and animal emotions." (Washington Post)"

    15 in stock

    £14.25

  • Feeding Horses

    CRC Press Feeding Horses

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisThis concise handbook provides evidence-based, practical horse nutrition accessibleto all readers. Standing out from very dense, theoretical and practical horsenutrition books, it arms equine students, veterinary students and horse ownerswith practically applicable information, bringing theory and practice together.At the end of each chapter, veterinarian and equine nutrition experts Dr GulsahKaya Karasu and Dr Peter Huntington provide guidance on practical applications,calculations and the real-life use of information. For example, how is gastric ulcerformation triggered by traditional horse feeding? How can the risk of gastric ulcerformation be reduced with evidence-based feeding?Divided into four parts, the book covers the horseâs digestive system, types offeeds, formulating rations, and nutrition-related health disorders. Its scientificallyvalidated, practical information will be invaluable for horse ow

    2 in stock

    £42.74

  • Being Your Cat: What's really going on in your

    Octopus Publishing Group Being Your Cat: What's really going on in your

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisEver wondered why your cat won't sit on your lap? Why she would suddenly watch the football on television, how she sees the world and what she thinks of you and your family? Prepare to enter the mind of your cat and revolutionise the way you see the world and your enigmatic pet.Bestselling cat author Celia Haddon and veterinary expert Dr Daniel Mills take you into the mind of your feline and, drawing on the latest scientific research, describe how your cat experiences the world. This is a unique book drawing on a wealth of veterinary science and studies, which relays those findings in a way that will amuse and delight owners. By placing you in the mind of your cat you will know what it's like physically, empirically, psychologically and emotionally to be your cat.Being Your Cat will fascinate and surprise those who wish to know the secret world of cats and reveals how their experiences don't always stray far from our own.

    1 in stock

    £11.99

  • The Mind of a Bee

    Princeton University Press The Mind of a Bee

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisTrade Review"Finalist for the PROSE Award in Biological Sciences""A thorough and thoughtful primer on the interiority of bees."---Mike Welch, Scientific American"The book’s bees astound; so too the clever humans who study them."---Robert Eagan, Library Journal, starred review"The knowledge on offer here is as entertaining as it is edifying. Readers won’t look at bees the same way again." * Publishers Weekly *"This is an outstanding book that provides a comprehensive overview of honeybee cognition. It provides a clear introduction to the field for amateur bee lovers as well as a nuanced and up-to-date summary for professionals. By looking at the world through the lens of a bee, readers will develop tools to better understand the distinct and vivid experiences of tiny invertebrates that are too frequently ignored."---Elizabeth A. Tibbetts, Current Biology"An entrancing journey through the senses and life struggles of bees."---Alun Anderson, New Scientist"The Mind of a Bee is a fascinating book that I hope will be read and understood by as broad an audience as possible, so that the important conclusions within may be shared more widely."---Amanda Williams, Buzz about Bees"This is an amazing book. I give it my highest recommendation."---David Gascoigne, Travels with Birds"I strongly recommend you read [Chittka’s] book and if you will excuse the pun ‘make your own mind up’. Science and nature writing at its finest and an essential read."---Roy Stewart, British Naturalists' Association"Written with moments of levity and soaked in curiosity, The Mind of a Bee is a delight."---Eliza Middleton, The Conversation"Chittka has managed the extraordinary feat of condensing over three decades of research into a single book and in such a way as to make it accessible to the non-expert." * Beekeepers Quarterly *"[A] devoted, accessible analysis."---Andrew Robinson, Nature"Bee behaviour is undoubtedly fascinating and Chittka is the ideal author to explain the intricacies of how bees learn and make decisions."---John Badmin, British Journal of Entomology and Natural History"Engaging and intellectually stimulating. . . .Despite it being basically a science book, The Mind of a Bee keeps you glued like it were an action-packed story where you just need to know the final conclusion."---Mihai Andrei, ZME Science"An entertaining and enlightening read."---Helen Gray, Animal Welfare"Lars Chittka's book is timely indeed, as it vividly describes and scientifically underpins the stunning intellectual power of these little creatures. . . .Highly recommend this book to everybody interested in nature- layman or professional."---Rudolf Alexander Steinbrecht, Arthropod Structure & Development ​​​​​​​"A wonderful journey into the fascinating world of bee intelligence and consciousness." * Conservation Biology *"The Mind of a Bee makes for fascinating reading. The book’s tight structure and numerous illustrations make it accessible . . . . [And I have] been thoroughly convinced by Chittka that bees are anything but little automatons."---Leon Vlieger, Inquisitive Biologist"This book is based on years of scientific research. It is a fascinating read that poses questions we all ought to be asking ourselves."---Claire Waring, Country Smallholder

    15 in stock

    £15.29

  • The Animal Mind

    Abrams The Animal Mind

    15 in stock

    Book Synopsis Nature author Marianne Taylor’s The Animal Mind is a fascinating exploration of animal intelligence and emotion, with thought-provoking essays, surprising insights, and breathtaking images by leading photographers Joel Sartore, Melissa Groo, Peter Delaney, and others. We are only beginning to understand the ways in which the animal mind is as complex as our own. A prairie dog’s vocal language is now the most sophisticated ever decoded, but their unique jump-yip poses as many questions as answers. Gorillas use sign language to describe past events to researchers, so does this mean they ruminate and relive their lives? When an ant looks in a mirror to see a dab of blue paint on its head, they try to clean it off, proving the ant is self-aware like us.The Animal Mind profiles 60 animals as it explores instances of remarkable cognition, communication, consciousness, and culture in the animal kingdom. Full of beautiful portraits

    15 in stock

    £23.19

  • The Age of Empathy: Nature's Lessons for a Kinder

    Profile Books Ltd The Age of Empathy: Nature's Lessons for a Kinder

    4 in stock

    Book Synopsis'Kindness and co-operation have played a crucial role in raising humans to the top of the evolutionary tree ... We have thrived on the milk of human kindness.' Observer BY THE AUTHOR OF ARE WE SMART ENOUGH TO KNOW HOW SMART ANIMALS ARE? 'There is a widely-held assumption that humans are hard-wired for relentless and ruthless competition ... Frans de Waal sees nature differently - as a biological legacy in which empathy, not mere self-interest, is shared by humans, bonobos and animals.' Ben Macintyre, The Times Empathy holds us together. That we are hardwired to be altruistic is the result of thousands of years of evolutionary biology which has kept society from slipping into anarchy. But we are not alone: primates, elephants, even rodents are empathetic creatures too. Social behaviours such as the herding instinct, bonding rituals, expressions of consolation and even conflict resolution demonstrate that animals are designed to feel for each other. From chimpanzees caring for mates that have been wounded by leopards, elephants reassuring youngsters in distress and dolphins preventing sick companions from drowning, with a wealth of anecdotes, scientific observations, wry humour and incisive intelligence, The Age of Empathy is essential reading for all who believe in the power of our connections to each other.Trade ReviewHis writing and science are infectiously good -- Adam Rutherford * Guardian *There is a widely held assumption that humans are hard-wired for relentless and ruthless competition... Frans de Waal sees nature differently - as a biological legacy in which empathy, not mere self interest, is shared by humans, bonobos and animals -- Ben Macintyre * The Times *A pioneer in primate studies, Frans de Waal sees our better side in chimps, especially our capacity for empathy * Wall Street Journal *Freshly topical ... a corrective to the idea that all animals - human and otherwise - are selfish and unfeeling to the core * Economist *Warm, engaging and empathetic ... the more we learn about nature, the more richly we're able to imagine a better society * Independent *

    4 in stock

    £10.44

  • Making Animals Happy

    Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Making Animals Happy

    1 in stock

    Book Synopsis'The modern day Doctor Dolittle' (Guardian), bestselling author of Animals in Translation, investigates the secrets of mental health in animals.Trade Review'A woman whose understanding of animals is very special. What's more, she not only understands them, she also puts her knowledge to practical use' Desmond Morris 'Admirable and extraordinary' Guardian 'Temple Grandin is a global phenomenon ... For those of us who love animals and want the best for them, Temple Grandin is a beacon of common sense and wisdom' Daily Mail

    1 in stock

    £15.29

  • EightLegged Wonders

    Greystone Books,Canada EightLegged Wonders

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisAn encounter with a spider will never be the same again …This warm-hearted book offers fascinating science and captivating storytelling to persuade readers to fall in love with—or at least tolerate—these eight-legged wonders.Eight-Legged Wonders unveils the remarkable lives of one of the most misunderstood and maligned creatures on the planet: the spider. With over 50,000 species, spiders play vital roles in our ecosystems and the vast majority are harmless to humans. With this in mind, shouldn’t we at least try to set aside our creepy-crawly associations, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for these truly wonderful beings?Eight-Legged Wonders helps us do just that. In this affectionate and surprisingly giddy ode to spiders, James O’Hanlon, a scientist and spider expert, introduces spiders that we may never have noticed before, including spiders that cosplay as ants, balloon through the air, and scub

    15 in stock

    £17.84

  • Super Natural

    Atlantic Books Super Natural

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisAlex Riley is an award-winning science writer focusing on long-form features in evolutionary biology, conservation and health. His work has appeared in Aeon, Nautilus, New Scientist, BBC Earth and BBC Future. His first book, A Cure for Darkness, was published by Ebury in 2021.

    15 in stock

    £18.70

  • The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals

    HarperCollins Publishers The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisThe definitive edition of Darwin's classic a brilliantly entertaining and accessible exploration of human and animal behaviour, reissued to mark the 200th anniversary of Darwin's birth.Why do we bite people we feel affection towards? Why do dogs wag their tails? Or cats purr? Why do we get embarrassed, and why does embarrassment make us blush? These and many other questions about the emotional life of man and animals are answered in this remarkable book.Expression is the only book in which Darwin sketches out his revolutionary ideas about human behaviour in detail: he discusses childhood learning, insanity, painting and sculpture, animal behaviour and the differences in facial expression of the world's peoples.Trade Review‘This is Darwin’s most readable and human book, full of enchanting observations, provocative theories and remarkable photographs. This splendid new edition of Expression will introduce a new generation of readers to Darwin’s masterpiece, undiminished and intensely relevant even 125 years after publication.’Oliver Sacks, author of The Man who Mistook his Wife for a Hat ‘The Expression of the Emotions predates Freud, and it will still be illuminating human psychology long after Freud’s discrediting is complete.’Richard Dawkins, author of The Selfish Gene and The God Delusion ‘The appearance of this new edition of Darwin’s extraordinary book is a major event in the human sciences. Here Darwin reminds us of his astonishing gifts of observation and explanation, offering insights that are delightful and fresh over a century later. Paul Ekman’s reconstruction of this edition is an act of great scholarship. Everyone interested in emotion – and who isn’t? – should be grateful to Ekman for this book.’Steven Pinker, author of The Language Instinct

    2 in stock

    £15.29

  • AgentBased and IndividualBased Modeling

    Princeton University Press AgentBased and IndividualBased Modeling

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisTrade ReviewPraise for the first edition "Biologists . . . have been relatively slow to take advantage of enhanced computing power and unlock the potential of these techniques. This book removes any excuse."—Frontiers of Biogeography"This volume would be an excellent text for an introductory course in modeling as science, or for self-study by a mature researcher interested in learning about this important new way of doing science."—H. Van Dyke Parunak, JASSS"This book represents something I have been [awaiting] for some years now: a good and solid introduction to the field of individual- and agent-based models. . . . The book is not only a practical guide but also serves as a good introduction to the basics of 'healthy' programming. These authors are the right ones to do this as they have a strong background in the philosophical aspects as well as the practical issues of modelling."—Basic and Applied Ecology"Agent-Based and Individual-Based Modeling has the potential to foster an appreciation of the value and place of individual-based models in our field in the next generation of emerging ecologists."—Christopher X. Jon Jensen, Ecology

    15 in stock

    £49.30

  • Biology of Animal Stress

    CABI Publishing Biology of Animal Stress

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisThe subjects of stress and animal welfare are currently attracting immense interest. This book brings together a range of perspectives from biomedical research (including human health and animal models of human stress) on stress and welfare, and assesses new approaches to conceptualising and alleviating stress.Table of Contents1: Biological Response to Stress: Implications for Animal Welfare, G P Moberg, University of California, USA 2: Some Issues in the Interpretation of Behavioural Responses to Stress, J Rushen, Dairy and Swine Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-food Canada, Canada 3: Neoroendocrine Responses to Stress, R L Matteri, J A Carroll and C J Dyer, University of Missouri, USA 4: The Metabolic Consequences of Stress: Targets for Stress and Priority of Nutrient Use, T H Elsasser et al., USDA, Agricultural Research Service, USA 5: Immune System Response to Stress, F Blecha, Kansas State University, USA 6: Hands-on and Hands-off Measurement of Stress, C J Cook et al., Horticultural and Food Research Institute of New Zealand, New Zealand 7: Accumulation and Long-Term Effects of Stress in Fish, C B Schreck, Oregon State University, USA 8: Chronic Intermittent Stress: A Model for the Study of Long Term Stressors, J Ladewig, The Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Denmark 9: Quantifying Some Responses to Pain as a Stressor, D J Mellor, Massey University, New Zealand, C J Cook and K J Stafford, Horticultural and Food Research Institute of New Zealand, New Zealand 10: Multiple Factors Controlling Behaviour: Implications for Stress and Welfare, F Toates, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK 11: Chronic Social Stress: Studies in Nonhuman Primates, S P Mendoza, J P Capitanio and W A Mason, University of California, USA 12: Consequences of Stress During Development, D C Lay Jr., Iowa State University, USA 13: Early Developmental Influences of Experience on Behaviour, Temperament, and Stress, W A Mason, University of California, USA 14: Genetic Selection to Reduce Stress in Animals, T G Pottinger, NERC Institute of Freshwater Ecology, Windermere Laboratory, Cumbria, UK 15: Human-Animal Interactions and Animal Stress, P H Hemsworth and J L Barnett, Agriculture Victoria, Australia 16: Alleviating Stress in Zoo Animals with Environmental Enrichment, K Carlstead, National Zoological Park, Washington, USA and D Shepherdson, Oregon Zoo, USA 17: Understanding the Role of Stress in Animal Welfare: Practical Considerations, T L Wolfle, formerly of the Institute for Laboratory Animal Research, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences, USA

    15 in stock

    £108.90

  • The Lion

    Princeton University Press The Lion

    Out of stock

    Book SynopsisTrade Review"A Choice Outstanding Academic Title of the Year""[Packer] demonstrates the incredible insights that a brilliant mind can reach based on half a century of multidisciplinary research. . . . I expect it will remain a must-read work for any scholar interested in carnivore ecology and conservation, for decades to come."---Miha Krofel, BioScience"For anyone concerned with the fate of the lion, indeed with the future of African wildlife in all its richness and diversity, this is an important book."---David M. Gascoigne, Travels With Birds

    Out of stock

    £42.58

  • Migration Ecology of Marine Fishes

    Johns Hopkins University Press Migration Ecology of Marine Fishes

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisA revelatory look at the secrets of marine fish migration.Not since F. R. Harden Jones published his masterwork on fish migration in 1968 has a book so thoroughly demystified the subject. With stunning clarity, David Hallock Secor''s Migration Ecology of Fishes finally penetrates the clandestine nature of marine fish migration. Secor explains how the four decades of research since Jones''s classic have employed digital-age technologiesincluding electronic miniaturization, computing, microchemistry, ocean observing systems, and telecommunicationsthat render overt the previously hidden migration behaviors of fish. Emerging from the millions of observed, telemetered, simulated, and chemically traced movement paths is an appreciation of the individual fish. Members of the same populations may stay put, explore, delay, accelerate, evacuate, and change course as they conditionally respond to their marine existence. But rather than a morass of individual behavioTrade ReviewThose of us who throw a line overboard or off a dock and quiver as some invisible creature teases our bait but curse the water's opaqueness will revel in this highly scientific textbook that penetrates the murky secrets of the sea. -- Elisavietta Ritchie Bay Weekly Secor's research brings together the history of ideas on fish migration, as well as an analysis of the new technologies that have provided remarkable observations on movements of fish in the global oceans to address why fish go where they do, and why an understanding is critical to the management of ocean uses. University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science An up-to-date synthesis of current knowledge of marine fish migrations... Appropriate for advanced undergraduate students, graduate students, fisheries professionals, and marine ecologists. Choice ... Many students of ecology and a wide range of professionals will benefit from the synthesis of ideas and large collection of relevant citations provided in this book. Journal of Fish Biology David Secor's book on the migration ecology of marine fishes represents a comprehensive synthesis of the state of the science in this field... Secor reveals the complexities of marine fish migration and provides the reader with an unprecedented window into movement dynamics under the sea. Ecology [ Migration Ecology of Marine Fishes] provided the most comprehensive, creative, current, and ambitious overview of migration literature to date. Secor especially succeeded in finding ways to discuss the mechanisms and ecological consequences of migration in almost every aspect of a fish's life... Rev Fish Biol Fisheries ... an insightful and comprehensive account... Migration Ecology of Marine Fishes will make a very useful contribution by providing a framework for the broader interpretation of fish migration. This same framework has important implications for the understanding and management of fish population/species productivity, stability and resilience in the face of fishing pressure and environmental change. New Zealand Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research ...undoubtedly an outstanding book and I strongly recommend it to all scientists, researchers, and students who are interested in migration and fisheries ecology. I cannot praise it highly enough. Marine Biology Research It deserves to be read by everyone with an interest the ecology of fishes, as well as those studying migratory behaviors in other groups. One comes away from the book with the clear impression that studies focusing on single aspects of fish movements are missing much of the story. Quarterly Review of Biology Those taking the time to read this book slowly and repeatedly will continuously find new insights and be rewarded for their effort. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society The value of Migration Ecology of Marine Fishes is that it provides accessible avenues for researchers that do study fish movement at the individual-level (or from behavioral and physiological perspectives) to consider the emergent properties that arise at the population level... Secor accomplishes what he set out to do, adding several useful new dimensions to the treatise by Harden-Jones. Environmental Biology of Fishes This book encapsulates the major advancements of the field, incorporating old and new concepts of migration to the latest technology in studying fish movement... Overall, Migration Ecology of Marine Fishes is an exceptional read for a graduate student or fisheries ecologist. It provides a current review of migration theory-a synthesis that has been long overdue in the marine ecology literature. Reviews in Fish Biology and FisheriesTable of ContentsAcknowledgments1. IntroductionClassifying MigrationBook Organization2. Bird and Fish MigrationMovement in FluidsAnalysis of Movements and MigrationRules of AggregationSchooling and FlockingNavigation CapacitiesSummarySegue3. Mating Systems and Larval DispersalMating SystemsEmbryo and Larval DispersalAlignment of Larval Dispersal with Mating SystemsSelective Harvest during Spawning MigrationsSummarySegue4. Complex Life Cycles and Marine Food WebsMarine Food WebsMigrating among Size SpectraMarine Ecosystem Patchiness, Transience, and PeriodicityLife Cycle SchedulesSchooling through Food WebsThe Storage EffectSummarySegue5. Population StructureFinding Their Way back HomeLife Cycle ClosureOpen Life CyclesMetapopulation TheoryTaking Stock of Population ThinkingSummarySegue6. Propagating PropensitiesConditional MigrationsPartial Migration Writ NarrowEvolution of Partial Migration and Ecological SpeciationPartial Migration Writ LargeSummarySegueRecapitulation7. ResilienceResilience TheoryResilience to Fishing and Climate ChangeCollective Agencies and BiodiversityBuilding Resilience into PopulationsSummaryBibliographyIndex

    1 in stock

    £71.82

  • Empire of Ants: The hidden worlds and

    Octopus Publishing Group Empire of Ants: The hidden worlds and

    10 in stock

    Book Synopsis'Beautifully written and filled with mind-boggling wonders' - Dave Goulson, author of A Sting in the Tale'Thrilling, compellingly readable and paradigm-shattering' - Charles Foster, author of Being a Beast'Both expert and entertaining' - David Barrie, author of Incredible JourneysAnts have been walking the Earth since the age of the dinosaurs. Today there are one million ants for every one of us. The closer you get to ants, the more human they look: they build megacities, grow crops, raise livestock, tend their young and infirm, and even make vaccines. They also have a darker side: they wage war, enslave rivals and rebel against their oppressors. From fearsome army ants, who stage twelve-hour hunting raids where they devour thousands, to gentle leaf-cutters gardening in their peaceful underground kingdoms, every ant is engineered by nature to fulfil their particular role.Acclaimed biologist Susanne Foitzik has travelled the globe to study these master architects of Earth. Joined by journalist Olaf Fritsche, Foitzik invites readers deep into her world - in the field and in the lab - and will inspire new respect for ants as a global superpower.Fascinating and action-packed, Empire of Ants will open your eyes to the secret societies thriving right beneath your feet.Trade ReviewBeautifully written and filled with mind-boggling wonders, Empire of Ants is a delightful tribute to the minuscule but extraordinary world of creatures that live right beneath our feet. -- Dave Goulson, author of A STING IN THE TALEThrilling, compellingly readable, and paradigm-shattering. A gateway to a strange but strangely familiar society - a complex international community, ruled by stern, exotic, resonant and repercussive stories. -- Charles Foster, author of BEING A BEASTBoth expert and entertaining, Empire of Ants will leave you in no doubt that these wonderfully strange little animals are among the most impressive of all our fellow creatures. -- David Barrie, author of INCREDIBLE JOURNEYSAre we the sole rulers of this world? This wonderful book brings our tiny co-rulers alive via an engaging description of ants' cities, hard work, warfare, royalty, diversity, and ecological impact. These insects may be quite different from us, but their societies are eerily similar. -- Frans de Waal, author of MAMA'S LAST HUGIf you ever wanted to travel to an exotic planet filled with strange life forms - you've arrived. Every page of Empire of Ants brims with astonishing stories and facts that could never have been invented by a human mind. -- Carl Safina, author of BECOMING WILDThis is a charming tribute to the 'little creatures that run the world.' A very personal selection of the many wonders discovered in the world of ants that introduces readers to their fascinating lives. -- Bert Hölldobler, co-author of THE SUPERORGANISM and Pulitzer Prize–winning THE ANTSSusanne Foitzik and Olaf Fritsche have you enter a whole new universe worthy of a science fiction novel, yet it exists right at your feet. -- Mark W. Moffett, author of THE HUMAN SWARM and ADVENTURES AMONG ANTSThis highly entertaining book makes it clear that Mother Nature has been having a wildly fun time moulding these social insects into an abundance of behavioural and physical expression. -- Jonathan Balcombe, author of WHAT A FISH KNOWS and SUPER FLY

    10 in stock

    £11.69

  • Anthrozoology

    Oxford University Press Anthrozoology

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisAnthrozoology, the study of human-animal interactions (HAIs), has experienced substantial growth during the past 20 years and it is now timely to synthesise what we know from empirical evidence about our relationships with both domesticated and wild animals. Two principal points of focus have become apparent in much of this research. One is the realisation that the strength of these attachments not only has emotional benefits for people, but confers health benefits as well, such that a whole area has opened up of using companion animals for therapeutic purposes. The other is the recognition that the interactions we have with animals have consequences for their welfare too, and thus impact on their quality of life. Consequently we now study HAIs in all scenarios in which animals come into contact with humans, whether as pets/companions, farm livestock, laboratory animals, animals in zoos, or in the wild. This topical area of study is of growing importance for animals in animal managemenTrade ReviewA valuable book on human-animal interactions and relationships in a range of contexts, and the costs and benefits of the relationships for both humans and animals in these settings. This book will be of interest to students, researchers, and animal managers across the spectrum of human-animal contact. * Animal Welfare *Table of Contents1: Geoff Hosey & Vicky Melfi: Introduction 2: James Serpell: Companion Animals 3: Susanne Waiblinger: Agricultural Animals 4: Kristine Coleman & Alison Heagerty: Laboratory Animals 5: Samantha Ward & Sally Sherwen: Zoo Animals 6: Ralf Buckley: Wild Animals and Tourists 7: Seth Magle: Urban Wildlife 8: Vicky Melfi & Geoff Hosey: Synthesis

    15 in stock

    £30.87

  • Whats My Dog Thinking

    Dorling Kindersley Ltd Whats My Dog Thinking

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisDiscover the true meaning of dog behaviour to form the deepest bond with your canine companion.What does it really mean when a dog rolls over and shows their tummy? They''re not always looking for a belly rub...Drawing on the latest research in dog psychology, this book reveals the secret meanings behind more than 80 canine behaviours, including the seven types of dog greeting and why some dogs eat your underwear!Packed with dogwatching tips and positive reinforcement training advice, this book will help you keep your dog happy, stimulated - and adorable!

    15 in stock

    £11.69

  • Avian Architecture  Revised and Expanded Edition

    Princeton University Press Avian Architecture Revised and Expanded Edition

    15 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    15 in stock

    £21.25

  • Dinosaur Behavior

    Princeton University Press Dinosaur Behavior

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisTrade Review"Michael J. Benton is a serious scientist and has conveyed serious information in this book, yet simultaneously he has transported me back to a world of childhood fantasy, in a manner that I still can't quite fathom. It is quite wonderful, however!"---David Gascoigne, Travels with Birds"[This] grippingly illustrated book brilliantly synthesizes science and art."---Andrew Robinson, Nature"A beautifully crafted book that updates the reader on the amazing research that is providing thrilling insights into the lives of dinosaurs."---Mike Walley, Everything Dinosaur"A handsomely illustrated book that offers an accessible introduction suitable for novices and possibly even curious high-school pupils."---Leon Vlieger, Inquisitive Biologist"[This] grippingly illustrated book brilliantly synthesizes science and art."---Andrew Robinson, Nature

    15 in stock

    £27.20

  • An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal the

    Vintage Publishing An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal the

    10 in stock

    Book Synopsis**Winner of the 2023 Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize**Discover the world as you've never seen it before - through the eyes of animals.'Immersive and mind-blowing' Peter Wohlleben, author of The Hidden Life of TreesThe Earth teems with sights and textures, sounds and vibrations, smells and tastes, electric and magnetic fields. But every animal is enclosed within its own unique sensory bubble, perceiving only a tiny sliver of this world.In An Immense World, Ed Yong coaxes us beyond the confines of our own senses, welcoming us into previously unfathomable dimensions - the world as it is truly perceived by other animals. Showing us that in order to understand our world we don't need to travel to other places; we need to see through other eyes.A NEW YORK TIMES, GUARDIAN, ECONOMIST, SPECTATOR, TIMES LITERARY SUPPLEMENT and NEW STATESMAN BOOK OF THE YEAR**Winner of 2023 Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Nonfiction**'Suffused with magic' Siddhartha Mukherjee, author of The Song of the Cell'A book that prompts awe at the world around us' Sunday TimesSunday Times bestseller, July 2023Trade ReviewStanding out even during a recent golden age of nature writing, Ed Yong dazzles with a deeply considered exploration of the many modes of sensory perception that life has evolved to navigate the world, written with exhilarating freshness * Winner of 2023 Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Nonfiction *[A] wondrous, lustrous, captivating book: Ed Yong's An Immense World... left me awed and stunned - and revolted by humanity's destructive pride and planetary abuse * Times Literary Supplement, *Books of the Year* *Full of extraordinary discoveries... an encyclopaedic, rigorously researched journey... recasts the world in breath-taking, bewildering immensity * Daily Telegraph *A hymn to the wonders of evolution... fascinating * Mail on Sunday *Yong succeeds in bringing a sense of grandeur to life on every scale * Financial Times *Not just a study of the myriad wonders of the natural world - though wondrous they are - but also a panoramic, complex portrait of the sensory capacities that underpin a multitude of life. ... In uncovering all this, Yong also shows why we should give more thought to our place in the world. * New Statesman, *Best Books of 2022* *An Immense World is an exploration of the ways in which our fellow creatures navigate, understand and interact with one another and their environment through senses. ... The result is so mind-boggling, it's tempting to say 'forget looking in deep space for astonishment'. But let's not do that. Let's continue searching there while also paying better attention to the miracles right under our noses. Yong's marvellous book shows us how. * Spectator, *Best Books of 2022* *This book lifts the shroud on previously invisible dimensions of the world itself * Economist, *Books of the Year* *A magic well of surprising, enlightening discoveries about the sensory worlds of other species... A brilliant book, marvellous and mesmerizing -- Jennifer Ackerman, author of The Genius of BirdsA stunning achievement - steeped in science but suffused with magic -- Siddhartha Mukherjee, author The Emperor of All MaladiesA delight... it prompts a radical rethink about the limits of what we know - what the world is, even. It is quite a book. And, I felt, putting it down, quite a world * Sunday Times *I love this book. Reading it is a delightful sensory experience... I truly enjoyed Yong's adventures in Wonderland! * Gaia Vince, author of Transcendence *A journal of discovery and animal magic, a sensory exploration that is a joy to read -- Susan Orlean, author of The Orchid ThiefMagnificent - an unbelievably immersive and mind-blowing account of how other animals experience our world -- Peter Wohlleben, author of The Hidden Life of Trees and The Inner Life of AnimalsLike stepping into a new kind of Alice in Wonderland. The perfect mixture of revelation, curiosity, science, beautiful prose and buckets full of wonders -- Andrea Wulf, author of The Invention of Nature: Alexander von Humboldt’s New WorldA cornucopia of wonders... a fascinating reminder of the humbling truth that most of what happens among life forms on Earth is beyond our ken -- David Quammen, author of SpilloverAn expansive, constantly revelatory exploration of the biosphere's sensorium... Ed Yong is my favourite contemporary science writer -- William Gibson, author of Neuromancer and The PeripheralEvery page finds the reader mouthing quiet whoa's, as the world she thought she knew opens out into a hundred others, improbable, strange, and fabulous. -- Mary Roach, author of Fuzz and StiffAn Immense World took my hand and brought me on a journey I'll never forget. After reading this book, I'll never look at our planet the same way again -- Clint Smith, author of How the Word is PassedA whirlwind tour of animal perceptual abilities. A magnificent book * Frans de Waal, author of Different: Gender Through the Eyes of a Primatologist *

    10 in stock

    £10.44

  • Footprints in the Woods

    Canongate Books Footprints in the Woods

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisLONGLISTED FOR THE HIGHLAND BOOK PRIZESHORTLISTED FOR THE RICHARD JEFFERIES AWARDA WATERSTONES BEST BOOK OF 2023Footprints in the Woods is John Lister-Kaye''s charming account of a year spent with otters, badgers, weasels and pine martens. This family - Mustelidae - all live in the wild at Aigas, the conservation and field study centre in the Highlands that he calls home.With fifty years of experience living side-by-side with these creatures and the patience of a true naturalist, John reveals the lives of these elusive animals: sometimes red in tooth and claw, but often playful, familial, curious and surprising.

    2 in stock

    £9.34

  • The Parrot in the Mirror

    Oxford University Press The Parrot in the Mirror

    Out of stock

    Book SynopsisHumans are not like other mammals. In fact, this book argues, across the animal kingdom we demonstrate unusual behaviour, rarely found except in one other group: birds. Exploring the pressures that influenced our evolution alongside that of birds can lead us to a greater understanding of both avian intelligence, and our own psychology.Trade ReviewOne can see why this book was written -- convergent evolution. Illustrations of the ways in which similar challenges lead to similar solutions. And, at this level, I must say it is a pretty entertaining read. * Michael Ruse, The Quarterly Review of Biology *Martinho-Truswell reports lots of interesting animal behavior here. Readers will learn a lot about the capabilities of the bird brain and body as well as their own. * Joanna Burger, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick *A must read for anyone with an interest in bird/human behavior. * Ian Paulsen, Macquarie University, The Birdbooker Report *entertaining * Clive Cookson, Financial Times, Summer Books 2022: Science *It's a fascinating, indeed almost surreal topic, and the book is full of facts and observations about how birds, and we, have evolved in similarly exceptional ways. * Gregory Day, Sydney Morning Herald *Engagingly and entertainingly written, this book places some of the many recent discoveries about bird intelligence into a fascinating human-bird framework. * Tim Birkhead *This is a short book written in a refreshingly readable style.[...]The Parrot in the Mirror is clever, fun, and [...] reminds us that wonder exists far beyond our own species. * Henry Mance, Financial Times *Having read [The Parrot in the Mirror], you won't look at yourself in the mirror in quite the same way. * Simon Ings, New Scientist *I was happy to be learning about birds as birds and not as models for my own species... the basic premise of The Parrot in the Mirror was persuasive. * Frank Brown Cloud, Public scholar Bloomington, IN *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1: How Did We Get Here? 2: A Long and Happy Life 3: Bird Brains 4: Till Death Do Us Part 5: Learning to Sing 6: Parrots in the Mirror Bibliography Index

    Out of stock

    £20.24

  • What Cats Want: An Illustrated Guide for Truly

    Bloomsbury Publishing PLC What Cats Want: An Illustrated Guide for Truly

    2 in stock

    Book Synopsis______________ ‘A very appealing, beyond-the-basic reference.’– Booklist ‘Cute illustrations and fascinating facts’ – Guardian ‘A perfect gift for any cat lover’ Reader Review 5 STARS ______________ Cats are so mysterious. What makes them climb into tiny spaces? Why do they sleep that much? And, most of all, how can we give them a good life? Dr. Yuki Hattori is Japan's leading cat doctor, and to him cats are the most beautiful animals in the world. His advice comes with little illustrations showing exactly what to look for as a cat owner - including charts showing how to interpret their different meows, the direction of their whiskers and the way their tail is pointing! Cats may seem low-maintenance but thoughtfulness about where you put their water, how warm or cool they like to be, what name to choose and how to groom them properly will make a life-changing difference. With understanding, affection and respect, your cat will be more healthy and contented - and you'll feel happier too. ‘I bought this book for a friend, but after seeing it I might just buy a stack more’ Reader Review 5 STARS ‘Even my dog enjoyed looking at it’ Reader Review 5 STARS

    2 in stock

    £11.69

  • The Animal Mind

    Taylor & Francis Ltd The Animal Mind

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisThe philosophy of animal minds addresses profound questions about the nature of mind and the relationships between humans and other animals.In this fully revised and updated introductory text, Kristin Andrews introduces and assesses the essential topics, problems, and debates as they cut across animal cognition and philosophy of mind, citing historical and cutting-edge empirical data and case studies throughout.The second edition includes a new chapter on animal culture. There are also new sections on the evolution of consciousness and tool use in animals, as well as substantially revised sections on mental representation, belief, communication, theory of mind, animal ethics, and moral psychology.Further features such as chapter summaries, annotated further reading, and a glossary make The Animal Mind an indispensable introduction to those teaching philosophy of mind, philosophy of animal minds or animal cognition. It will also be an Trade Review"Essential for anyone interested in the philosophy of animal cognition. Andrews expertly combines science and philosophy to show how rich, complex, and varied animal minds can be. She also shows how the study of animal minds can improve our understanding of consciousness, language, reason, culture, morality, human nature, and more. If you want a new appreciation of the many animals you share the world with, as well as of yourself, you should read this book." - Jeff Sebo, New York University, USAPraise for the first edition:"… Andrews explores the philosophy of animal cognition fairly thoroughly and clearly, including ideas, claims, and counterclaims. … The Animal Mind is not for skimming; it should be read slowly, a section at a time, digested, and read again. However, the knowledge gained is worth the time invested. … Summing Up: Recommended." - CHOICE"Andrews does not merely present the major theories and latest research into animal cognition. She also evaluates the quality of that research and the arguments advanced by notable philosophers, psychologists, ethologists and biologists. For readers unfamiliar with the terminology frequently used by specialists in those fields, Andrews includes a clear glossary. Likewise, the entire book is written in an engaging style, avoiding the mind-numbing tendencies that introductory textbooks can produce." - Philosophy in Review"Andrews is terrifically knowledgeable about both the philosophy and science of animal minds and is not above coaxing the rest of us into this notoriously difficult subject with the judicious use of anecdotes and stories. This is the best introduction to the subject currently available." - Dale Jamieson, New York University, USA"An outstanding, highly readable, and carefully argued introduction to a variety of increasingly important topics in philosophy. I can think of no better way to get philosophers and cognitive scientists up to speed on the issues, and I look forward to teaching this book in my own courses on animal minds." - Bryce Huebner, Georgetown University, USA"This thoughtful and well-informed book is a very useful guide to the philosophical and empirical literatures on animal minds. It is accessibly written and well-pitched for students." - José Luis Bermúdez, Texas A&M University, USA"The Animal Mind is an ideal text for introductory classes in the growing field of the philosophy of cognitive ethology. It is also an excellent work of philosophy—one that challenges received wisdom and speculates about future lines of research. As interest in animals grows among philosophers and psychologists, this book provides stimulating reading for students and scholars alike." - Edward Minar, University of Arkansas, USATable of ContentsPreface to the second edition Acknowledgments, first edition Introduction 1. Other minds 2. Understanding animal behavior 3. The science of other minds 4. Consciousness 5. Can animals think? 6. Communication 7. Social knowledge 8. Culture 9. Moral minds. Glossary Bibliography Index

    1 in stock

    £34.19

  • Solitary Bees

    HarperCollins Publishers Solitary Bees

    3 in stock

    Book SynopsisA completely up-to-date introduction to the most common group of bees in Britain.Bees, for most people, mean honey or bumble bees, but in fact these social species make up only a small proportion of the species that live in Britain. Open your eyes to the so-called solitary' bees, and discover a wonderfully diverse population miners, leafcutters, carpenters and masons many of which can be found in your own back garden.Solitary bees come in a variety of colours and sizes, with some as large as bumblebees and some only a few millimetres long, and many are key pollinators for our crops and wildflowers. This comprehensive book will tell the story of how these bees live, reproduce and thrive: discover the numerous strategies used by male bees to find females and persuade them to mate; follow the females as they build their nests or in the case of cuckoo' species, sneak into the nests of their neighbours and watch as the new generation appears. Explore the interactions between flowering pTrade ReviewPraise for New Naturalist Solitary Bees:‘This stands out as my book of the year, and if you are only going to have one New Naturalist book on your shelves or you are an avid collector of the series, this book is a must have and I thoroughly recommend it.’ Steven Rutherford FBNA, Honorary Chairman, British Naturalists Association Reviews of Ted Benton’s previous volumes in the New Naturalist Series – Bumblebees and Grasshoppers & Crickets: ‘The most authoritative work on British bumblebees ever published.’Independent ‘This book is an inspiration. It will fascinate and arm you with everything you need to know to help you save our bumblebees. Buy it, enjoy it, and keep it safe.’BBC Wildlife ‘Ted Benton's entomological opus [New Naturalist] Grasshoppers & Crickets led me into the weird world of British orthoptera, with their edible nuptial gifts, "mate-guarding", harems and extraordinarily complex songs. No field or meadow will seem or sound the same again’ Robert Macfarlane, ‘Books of the Year 2012’, Guardian

    3 in stock

    £52.00

  • Wild Isles The book of the BBC TV series

    HarperCollins Publishers Wild Isles The book of the BBC TV series

    4 in stock

    Book SynopsisThis beautifully illustrated overview of the wildlife of the British Isles showcases the diversity of our plant and animal life.Wild Isles is a celebration of the wildlife found on a relatively modest collection of islands positioned at a latitude so northerly to be unattractive to many animals and plants. Despite these unpromising foundations, the islands of Britain and Ireland, together with more than 6,000 lesser islets that make up our archipelago, contain some of the most diverse, beautiful and wildlife-rich landscapes and seas on our planet.This book will explore the fascinating relationships within and between species who make their home on our beautiful isles.Each chapter focuses on a particular kind of wild space. Britain and Ireland are dominated by a wide variety of grasslands from lowland water meadows to upland moors, and we will see how these human-shaped, semi-natural landscapes thrum with insect, bird and mammal life. Life requires water to flourish, and streams and rivTrade Review‘Filled with glorious photography showcasing the biodiversity of our archipelago’ Radio Times Praise for Patrick Barkham 'Barkham is an outstanding author' CHRIS PACKHAM 'Outstanding nature journalism' HORATIO CLARE 'A heralded nature writer' THE TIMES 'A lovely, fluid writer' DAILY MAIL

    4 in stock

    £22.50

  • How to Speak Whale

    HarperCollins Publishers How to Speak Whale

    Out of stock

    Book SynopsisFascinating' Greta ThunbergExtraordinary' Merlin SheldrakeA must-read' New ScientistEnthralling' George MonbiotBrilliant' Philip HoareAs a biologist and nature filmmaker, Tom Mustill had always liked whales. But when one landed on his kayak, nearly killing him, the video clip of the event going viral, he became obsessed.This book traces an extraordinary investigation into the deep ocean and today's cutting-edge science. Using underwater ears,' robotic fish, big data and machine intelligence, leading scientists and tech-entrepreneurs across the world are working to turn the fantasy of Dr Dolittle into a reality, upending much of what we know about these mysterious creatures. But what would it mean if we were to make contact? Can we hope to one day understand animals? Are we ready for what they might say?Enormously original and hugely entertaining, How to Speak Whale is an unforgettable look at how close we truly are to communicating with another species and how doing so might change our world beyond recognition.Trade Review‘A rich exploration of some of the world's most astonishing creatures … Mustill weaves a narrative that will expand your concept of language and deepen your understanding of the many ways there are to be alive. This is an extraordinary book that left me inspired’ Merlin Sheldrake, author of Entangled Life ‘A must-read… a hugely engaging personal story of a journey into the future of human-animal communication facilitated by delving into its past’ New Scientist ‘[An] extensively researched and energetic book… it is via the informed, far-reaching empathy of intermediaries such as Mustill that we stand our best chance of seeing into the non-human depths’ New Statesman ‘First-class … Reasoned, entertaining, and fact-filled’ Forbes ‘Fascinating and deeply humane’ Greta Thunberg ‘A rich, enthralling, brilliant book that opens our eyes and ears to worlds we can scarcely imagine’George Monbiot, Sunday Times bestselling author of Regenesis ‘Tantalizing … Think how transformative it would be if we could chat with whales about their love lives or their sorrows or their thoughts on the philosophy of language’ Elizabeth Kolbert, New Yorker ‘Mind-blowing … You will never feel closer to the magnificence of whales’Lucy Jones, author of Losing Eden ‘A scary, important and brilliant book … If we do get to translate ‘whale’, will we like what they’ve got to say?’Philip Hoare, author of Leviathan ‘Mustill takes us farther, much farther, than Dr. Dolittle ever imagined’ Carl Safina ‘Riveting … One of the most exciting and hopeful books I have read in ages’ Sy Montgomery, author of The Soul of an Octopus ‘Mustill conveys the richness of whale song and communication’ Frans de Waal ‘Lively and informative’ Jonathan Slaght, author of Owls of the Eastern Ice ‘Extraordinary’ Christiana Figueres

    Out of stock

    £13.49

  • Ways of Being

    Penguin Books Ltd Ways of Being

    15 in stock

    Book Synopsis''Heady, exhilarating, often astonishing'' New York Times ''Iridescently original, deeply disorientating and yet somehow radically hopeful ... worth reading and rereading'' Brian Eno ''Be prepared to re-evaluate your relationship with the amazing life forms with whom we share the planet. Fascinating, innovative and thought provoking: I thoroughly recommend Ways of Being'' Dr Jane Goodall, DBERecent years have seen rapid advances in ''artificial'' intelligence, which increasingly appears to be something stranger than we ever imagined. At the same time, we are becoming more aware of the other intelligences which have been with us all along, unrecognized. These other beings are the animals, plants, and natural systems that surround us, and are slowly revealing their complexity and knowledge - just as the new technologies we''ve built are threatening to cause their extinction, and ours.In Ways of Being, writer and artist James Bridle considers the fascinating, uncanny and multiple ways of existing on earth. What can we learn from these other forms of intelligence and personhood, and how can we change our societies to live more equitably with one another and the non-human world? From Greek oracles to octopuses, forests to satellites, Bridle tells a radical new story about ecology, technology and intelligence. We must, they argue, expand our definition of these terms to build a meaningful and free relationship with the non-human, one based on solidarity and cognitive diversity. We have so much to learn, and many worlds to gain.Trade ReviewBridle's writing weaves cultural threads that aren't usually seen together, and the resulting tapestry is iridescently original, deeply disorientating and yet somehow radically hopeful. The only futures that are viable will probably feel like that. This is a pretty amazing book, worth reading and rereading. -- Brian EnoJames Bridle is an artist who is fascinated by technology - creating a homemade self-driving car to understand how AIs "think", for example - and I loved their book, Ways of Being, which looks at artificial and animal intelligence, and how those challenge our assumptions about the world. Come for the slime mould replicating the Tokyo subway system, stay for the non-binary computer that used water to model the British economy. -- Helen Lewis * New Statesman Books of the Year *Heady and often astonishing ... the scope of Bridle's curiosity and comprehension is immense ... there is something hopeful and even heartening in their faith that our current disastrous course might be shifted not only by new policies and technologies but also - and more fundamentally - by the power of new ideas. -- Stefan Merrill Block * New York Times *If you plan on reading James Bridle's Ways of Being - and I cannot recommend highly enough that you do - you might consider forming a support group first. The ideas in this book are so big, so fascinating and yes, so foreign, you are going to need people to talk to about them ... Bridle has created a new way of thinking about our world, about being ... read this important book. Read it twice. Talk about it. Tell everyone you know. -- Brenna Maloney * Washington Post *It was so interesting that I luxuriated in every word. The conversation unfolding in these pages is fundamentally important and I would recommend it to absolutely everyone who wants to really think and reimagine a future that remains ours to make. I was left with a feeling that James Bridle hasn't so much written a book, as a manifesto for a new Green Enlightenment ... it made the hair stand up on the back of my neck. -- Sir Tim SmitIn making clear the patience, imagination and humility required to better know and protect other forms of intelligence on Earth, Bridle has made an admirable contribution to the dawning interspecies age. * The Economist *Bridle is a clear, artful writer and a sweeping thinker ... [A] hopeful book, almost an antidote. It imagines technology not as something separate and menacing, but as part of a grand unfolding - an 'efflorescence', to use Bridle's word - along an evolutionary continuum of human and 'more-than-human' ways of being in the world. -- Peter Christie * Post Magazine *Bridle enlarges our definition of what 'intelligence' can be ... This book is an expansive guide, helping us turn our gaze outwards as we look for answers to the challenges of our time. The answers are out there, Bridle says, but Western science and imagination are only just beginning to take them seriously. Ways of Being is an absorbing, existential and ultimately hopeful book. -- Elizabeth Wainwright * Geographical *We must rethink what it means to be intelligent in a spirit of collaboration with non-humans ... What makes Bridle's book new and interesting is its insistence that AI, rightly used, can help in this project ... It may not be intelligence as we know it, but it is human, all too human. -- Stuart Jeffries * The Spectator *James Bridle encourages you to widen the boundaries of your understanding, to contemplate the innate intelligence that animates the life force of octopuses and honeybees as well as apes and elephants. We humans are not alone in having a sense of community, a sense of fun, a sense of wonder and awe at the beauty of nature. Be prepared to re-evaluate your relationship with the amazing life forms with whom we share the planet. Fascinating, innovative and thought provoking I thoroughly recommend Ways of Being. -- Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute & UN Messenger of PeaceFrom what are we alienated? Some kind of godlike being, transcending the physical world? The truth is exactly the opposite ... Alienation means thinking humans are special and different. James Bridle's wonderful book will make you feel and think the power of knowing how like all other lifeforms we are. There is nothing more important. -- Timothy MortonJames Bridle's brilliant Ways of Being shows we can only face the challenges of the 21st century if we go beyond the fear of pooling knowledge: Bridle shows the importance of listening to one another and our surroundings, and of creating new forms of community. -- Hans Ulrich Obrist

    15 in stock

    £11.69

  • Oxford University Press Behavioural Responses to a Changing World

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisFor many animals, behavioural adjustments represent the first response to human-modified conditions. By improving reproduction and survival, such adjustments can play the lead in maintaining viable populations in the face of rapid environmental change. Behavioural responses, however, can also be maladaptive and reduce individual fitness, particularly if favourable ''reaction norms'' have not yet evolved because animals are encountering conditions that they have never experienced before. Clearly, behaviour matters. But how can we capitalise on our understanding of animal behaviour to improve conservation and management outcomes? Behavioural Responses to a Changing World: Challenges and Applications - a companion volume to the first edition published in 2012 - examines wildlife behavioural responses to human-induced environmental change through a translational lens. Despite considerable and growing interest in research on the topic, the predictive value and practical application of what has been learned remains underappreciated and underutilized in the context of developing real-world solutions. To redress this, the current book builds upon the foundations of the original volume, but with a more applied perspective that focuses on highlighting how different forms of environmental challenges - from climate change to urbanisation - influence animal behaviour, and how we can effectively harness knowledge of animal behaviour to effect practical solutions to predicting and mitigating the weighty impacts of a radically changed and changing world.

    1 in stock

    £37.99

  • Animal Behavior and Parasitism

    Oxford University Press Animal Behavior and Parasitism

    Out of stock

    Book SynopsisWe live in a world teeming with parasites. Many animal behaviors, including social interactions, mating displays, and decisions about where to move, nest, and forage are shaped by interactions with parasites. The same is true for humans, where our attraction to mates, hygienic behaviors, food choices, and decisions about when and where to gather in groups often depend on current and perceived infection risk. In turn, behaviors like social distancing and self-medication can alter the trajectories of parasite transmission and evolution, as vividly illustrated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The myriad connections between animal behavior and parasitism have been the subject of growing research interest since the 1970s and 80s, when fundamental theories linking the two fields of study emerged. Since then, a combination of conceptual and technological advances, and increased integration of ideas across disciplines, have helped to uncover fascinating new connections between animal behaviorTrade ReviewGiven the myriad effects parasites exert on various facets of host biology and behavior, this scholarly, well-researched text will appeal to a broad range of biologists with widely varying interests. * Choice *

    Out of stock

    £90.00

  • Minding Animals

    Oxford University Press Minding Animals

    15 in stock

    Trade ReviewIn Minding Animals...Marc Bekoff observes and describes animals as individuals at play, dreaming and grooming, in a book with both brains and a heart. * The Daily Telegraph *To find out about the rich emotional life of nonhuman species, read Minding Animals. * Natural History *Bekoff does a wonderful job showing the reader how learning and understanding and 'minding' animals and their behavior lead to recognition of their feelings as well. Using both his vast knowledge of animals and the observations made by other naturalists, Bekoff illustrates the minds, hearts, spirits and souls of the animal kingdom. * Biology Digest *Interweaving anecdotal stories, discussions of scientific research, and explorations into the philosophy and theology of our relationship with nature and other animals, Bekoff builds a case for the necessity of understanding animals and granting them mutual respect as 'other persons.' The conversational writing style makes for a highly accessible book. * Booklist *With this abundant narrative of Marc Bekoff a new age of intimacy between humans and animals has begun. The companionship, the play, the healing, the guidance, the protection provided by the animals, all these will be needed in the future as never before. Everyone should read Minding Animals, an amazingly thorough, delightful, and most important book. * Thomas Berry, author of The Dream of the Earth and The Great Work *For those of us who have immersed ourselves in the well being of life forms other than human, the fact that they communicate and have feelings is as natural and understandable as breathing. Through this lens we see clearly how their well being is intricately interconnected with our own. In Minding Animals Marc Bekoff has done a wonderful job of showing us how learning to understand and 'mind' animals and their behavior leads us to recognize their feelings as well. Through their layers, we find even more richness and joy of life as we glimpse into ever deeper parts of ourselves. This book is fun, inspiring, thought-provoking and educational! What a great mix! * Julia Butterfly Hill, author of The Legacy of Luna: The Story of a Tree, a Woman, and the Struggle to Save the Redwoods *Just as the best doctors attain detailed and compassionate knowledge of the uniqueness of each patient, so too do the best behavioral biologists * with Marc Bekoff prominently among themlearn to recognize each animal as a distinct individual with its own internal life and experiences. By minding animals, we obtain our best scientific understanding of their evolution and behavior.Stephen Jay Gould, author of The Structure of Evolutionary Theory *Except for relatively minor specializations that relate to whether we walk, run, fly or swim, all we vertebrate animals are physically stunningly similar. Most would also agree that the brain is an organ, as are stomachs, kidneys, and hearts, designed with functions and capacities useful for survival in often complex and indirect ways. There is no evidence, however, that what the brain does differs fundamentally across various species of vertebrates. Differences are in degree with respect to specific functions. In this readable, wide-ranging, and very stimulating book, Marc Bekoff takes this larger holistic view as a basis for a passionate exploration of how we should treat, and what we owe, our fellow-vertebrate creatures, who likely have many emotional and sensory survival mechanisms similar to our own. * Bernd Heinrich, University of Vermont, author of Mind of the Raven *Bekoff is an ethologist: a scientist who studies animal behavior. In this new look at the consciousness of animals, he shares his experiences along with the nitty-gritty details of how animal behaviorists make their living. But Bekoff goes beyond a mere description of the science of ethology. He also tackles bigger issues, such as the questions of animal cognition, intelligence, and their emotional lives. Bekoff has a talent for making his points by leading readers through the evidence for and against an issue and guiding them to a conclusion. Interweaving anecdotal stories, discussions of scientific research, and explorations into the philosophy and theology of our relationship with nature and other animals, Bekoff builds a case for the necessity of understanding animals and granting them mutual respect as 'other persons.' The conversational writing style makes for a highly accessible book. * SciTech Book News *

    15 in stock

    £15.19

  • Animal Behavior

    Oxford University Press Inc Animal Behavior

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisThe leading text in the field shows how researchers use scientific logic to study the underlying mechanisms and evolutionary bases of behavior, with emphasis on how evolutionary theory unifies the various sub disciplines within animal behavior. A comparative and integrative overview of how and why animals as diverse as insects and humans behave the way that they do, linking behaviors to the brain, genes, and hormones, as well as to the surrounding ecological and social environments.

    1 in stock

    £119.69

  • The Zebra Finch A Synthesis of Field and Laboratory Studies 5 Oxford Ornithology Series

    Oxford University Press, USA The Zebra Finch A Synthesis of Field and Laboratory Studies 5 Oxford Ornithology Series

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisThis book sumarizes current scientific knowledge of the Australian Zebra Finch, a bird popular with scientists and hobbyists throughout the world. It builds up a complete picture of the biology of the species, integrating findings from the laboratory with those from the wild, with emphasis on behaviour and ecology.Trade ReviewThe text is large and readable. Each chapter is thoughtfully written and meticulously researched ... an essential reference for both the researcher and enthusiast alike. This book is sure to have popular appeal. As one who studies Zebra Finches, I will not be attempting any future research without first consulting this vital laboratory and field companion. * Jim Reynolds, IBIS, 1997 *This volume presents a comprehensive review of the behaviour and ecology of the zebra finch. * Biological Abstracts, vol.49, issue 8, August 1997 *Table of Contents1. Systematics and phylogeny ; 2. Distribution and habitat ; 3. Morphology, domestication, and moult ; 4. Feeding ecology ; 5. Drinking, water relations, and temperature regulation ; 6. Coloniality and breeding ecology ; 7. Breeding periodicity ; 8. Populations ; 9. Social and reproductive behaviour ; 10. Vocalizations ; 11. Song ; 12. Sexual selection and mate choice ; 13. Life history and adaptations ; Appendices ; References ; Index

    15 in stock

    £133.00

  • Harriers of the World Their Behaviour and Ecology Oxford Ornithology Series 11

    Oxford University Press, USA Harriers of the World Their Behaviour and Ecology Oxford Ornithology Series 11

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisSynthesises and analyses the masses of data on the behavioural ecology of harriers. This work offers a comparison of breeding systems among harriers in the northern and southern hemispheres, and includes a phylogeny of the harriers, based on DNA findings. It is illustrated with line drawings of these impressive birds.Trade Review... the book is remarkably compact, written in an engaging and easily accessible style, and features many beautiful line drawings by the authors twin brother, John ... We recommend that everyone with even a passing interest in how and why birds do what they do, as well as all those who take study of behaviour, ecology and evolution more seriously, should add this volume to their bookshelves....a book that is full of ideas and insight. * IBIS *Table of ContentsPreface ; 1. Introduction: Changing perspectives - from natural history to behavioural ecology ; 2. Evolution and peculiarities of the harriers ; 3. Aerial displays: Mate choice and reverse dimorphism ; 4. Of mice and harriers: Who wins the arms race? ; 5. Mating patterns: Polygyny and deception ; 6. Copulation patterns and sperm depletion ; 7. Sex ratio and egg size manipulation ; 8. Food and reproduction in the tropics ; 9. Clutch size and latitude ; 10. Synthesis ; References ; Index

    15 in stock

    £73.00

  • Domains and Major Transitions of Social Evolution

    Oxford University Press Domains and Major Transitions of Social Evolution

    Out of stock

    Book SynopsisEvolutionary change is usually incremental and continuous, but some increases in organizational complexity have been radical and divisive. Evolutionary biologists, who refer to such events as major transitions, have not always appreciated that these advances were novel forms of pairwise commitment that subjugated previously independent agents. Inclusive fitness theory convincingly explains cooperation and conflict in societies of animals and free-living cells, but to deserve its eminent status it should also capture how major transitions originated: from prokaryote cells to eukaryote cells, via differentiated multicellularity, to colonies with specialized queen and worker castes. As yet, no attempt has been made to apply inclusive fitness principles to the origins of these events. Domains and Major Transitions of Social Evolution develops the idea that major evolutionary transitions involved new levels of informational closure that moved beyond looser partnerships. Early neo-DarwiniansTrade ReviewThis book is valuable for anyone interested in the history of evolutionary thought and theory. It is a must have for anyone for whom kin selection and inclusive fitness maximization is their scientific guiding lodestar. It is also a must have for those for whom kin selection and inclusive fitness maximization is the bane of their existence - to see the best case the other side can muster. Domains and Major Transitions of Social Evolution is a book for the serious evolutionary biologist seeking an intellectual challenge. I found it both enlightening and worthwhile, if not entirely persuasive. * Peter Nonacs, ISBE Newsletter 2023 *This well-researched book makes an enjoyable read. It is thought-provoking while avoiding too many technicalities, and as such also well suited for graduate teaching. Obviously, any scholar interested in social evolution will want to read this volume. It will also appeal to evolutionary biologists who would like to see a condensed treatment of the development of evolutionary thought, and to anyone who ever wondered what makes social insects so special yet, at the same time, similar to cells. * Ulrich R. Ernst, Trends in Ecology & Evolution *

    Out of stock

    £89.00

  • Domains and Major Transitions of Social Evolution

    Oxford University Press Domains and Major Transitions of Social Evolution

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisThis thought-provoking text presents a fresh synthesis of the principles of social evolution that underlie the major transitions, explaining how the basic theory underpinning social evolution - inclusive fitness theory - is central to understanding each event.Trade ReviewThis book is valuable for anyone interested in the history of evolutionary thought and theory. It is a must have for anyone for whom kin selection and inclusive fitness maximization is their scientific guiding lodestar. It is also a must have for those for whom kin selection and inclusive fitness maximization is the bane of their existence - to see the best case the other side can muster. Domains and Major Transitions of Social Evolution is a book for the serious evolutionary biologist seeking an intellectual challenge. I found it both enlightening and worthwhile, if not entirely persuasive. * Peter Nonacs, ISBE Newsletter 2023 *This well-researched book makes an enjoyable read. It is thought-provoking while avoiding too many technicalities, and as such also well suited for graduate teaching. Obviously, any scholar interested in social evolution will want to read this volume. It will also appeal to evolutionary biologists who would like to see a condensed treatment of the development of evolutionary thought, and to anyone who ever wondered what makes social insects so special yet, at the same time, similar to cells. * Ulrich R. Ernst, Trends in Ecology & Evolution *

    1 in stock

    £42.74

  • Insect Behavior

    Oxford University Press Insect Behavior

    Out of stock

    Book SynopsisInsects display a staggering diversity of behaviors. Studying these systems provides insights into a wide range of ecological, evolutionary, and behavioral questions including the genetics of behavior, phenotypic plasticity, chemical communication, and the evolution of life-history traits. This accessible text offers a new approach that provides the reader with the necessary theoretical and conceptual foundations, at different hierarchical levels, to understand insect behavior. The book is divided into three main sections: mechanisms, ecological and evolutionary consequences, and applied issues. The final section places the preceding chapters within a framework of current threats to human survival - climate change, disease, and food security - before providing suggestions and insights as to how we can utilize an understanding of insect behavior to control and/or ameliorate them. Each chapter provides a concise, authoritative review of the conceptual, theoretical, and methodological fouTable of ContentsForewordJohn Alcock: 1: Daniel González-Tokman, Isaac González-Santoyo, and Alex Córdoba-Aguilar: Introduction 2: John Hunt, James Rapkin, and Clarissa House: The genetics of reproductive behavior in insects 3: Anne C. von Philipsborn: Neurobiology of insect behavior 4: H. Frederik Nijhout and Emily Laub: The role of hormones in insect behavior 5: Karen D. Williams and Marla B. Sokolowski: Phenotypic plasticity and insect behavior 6: Darrell J. Kemp: Habitat selection and territoriality 7: Don R. Reynolds and Jason W. Chapman: Long-range migration and orientation behavior 8: Stephen J. Simpson, Carlos Ribeiro, and Daniel González-Tokman: Insect feeding behavior 9: Thomas N. Sherratt and Changku Kang: Anti-predator behavior 10: Bernard D. Roitberg: Chemical communication 11: James C. O'Hanlon, Thomas E. White, and Kate D.L. Umbers: Visual communication 12: Heiner Römer: Acoustic communication 13: Rachel Olzer, Rebecca L. Ehrlich, Justa L. Heinen-Kay, Jessie Tanner, and Marlene Zuk: Reproductive behavior 14: Glauco Machado and Stephen T. Trumbo: Parental care 15: Jennifer Fewell and Patrick Abbot: Insect sociality 16: Carl N. Keiser, James L.L. Lichtenstein, Colin M. Wright, Gregory T. Chism, and Jonathan N. Pruitt: Personality and behavioral syndromes in insects and spiders 17: Reuven Dukas: Insect cognition and learning 18: Pedro F. Vale, Jonathon A. Siva-Jothy, André Morrill, and Mark R. Forbes: The influence of parasites on insect behavior 19: Wolf U. Blanckenhorn: Behavioral, plastic, and evolutionary responses to a changing world 20: Sandra A. Allan: Behavior-based control of insect crop pests 21: Ana E. Gutiérrez-Cabrera, Giovanni Benelli, Thomas Walker, José Antonio De Fuentes-Vicente, and Alex Córdoba-Aguilar: Behavior-based control of arthropod vectors: the case of mosquitoes, ticks and Chagasic bugs 22: Tim R. New: Insect behavior in conservation

    Out of stock

    £56.00

  • Essential Ornithology

    Oxford University Press Essential Ornithology

    Out of stock

    Book SynopsisEssential Ornithology provides the reader with a concise but comprehensive introduction to the biology of birds, one of the most widely studied and commonly taught taxonomic groups.Trade ReviewThis book is admirably direct and direct in conveying its points. While it uses the words and phrases of academic biology, its careful and caring tone makes it consistently readable. A textbook that students can read is an obvious virtue. A textbook that students can afford is another virtue, and this book is much less expensive than many textbooks. * Peter A. Bednekoff, ISBE Newsletter *Table of Contents1: Evolution of birds 2: Feathers and flight 3: Movement: migration and navigation 4: Eggs, nests, and chicks 5: Reproduction 6: Foraging and avoiding predation 7: Populations, communities, and conservation

    Out of stock

    £43.22

  • Urban Evolutionary Biology

    Oxford University Press Urban Evolutionary Biology

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisUrban Evolutionary Biology fills an important knowledge gap on wild organismal evolution in the urban environment, whilst offering a novel exploration of the fast-growing new field of evolutionary research. The growing rate of urbanization and the maturation of urban study systems worldwide means interest in the urban environment as an agent of evolutionary change is rapidly increasing.We are presently witnessing the emergence of a new field of research in evolutionary biology. Despite its rapid global expansion, the urban environment has until now been a largely neglected study site among evolutionary biologists. With its conspicuously altered ecological dynamics, it stands in stark contrast to the natural environments traditionally used as cornerstones for evolutionary ecology research. Urbanization can offer a great range of new opportunities to test for rapid evolutionary processes as a consequence of human activity, both because of replicate contexts for hypothesis testing, but also because cities are characterized by an array of easily quantifiable environmental axes of variation and thus testable agents of selection. Thanks to a wide possible breadth of inference (in terms of taxa) that may be studied, and a great variety of analytical methods, urban evolution has the potential to stand at a fascinating multi-disciplinary crossroad, enriching the field of evolutionary biology with emergent yet incredibly potent new research themes where the urban habitat is key. Urban Evolutionary Biology is an advanced textbook suitable for graduate level students as well as professional researchers studying the genetics, evolutionary biology, and ecology of urban environments. It is also highly relevant to urban ecologists and urban wildlife practitioners.Trade ReviewIn summary, we find the volume to be a valuable resource for summarizing the current state of urban evolutionary biology and helping future researchers to develop new questions that will expand this growing field. * Anthony J. Dant, Alexandra D. Burnett, Leah N. Veldhuisen, and Katrina M. Dlugosch, Quarterly Review of Biology *Urban Evolutionary Biology fills an important knowledge gap on wild organismal evolution in the urban environment, whilst offering a novel exploration of the fast-growing new field of evolutionary research. * CENTRE OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES, University of Warsaw *Table of ContentsMarina Alberti: Foreword 1: Marta Szulkin, Jason Munshi-South and Anne Charmantier: Introduction 2: Marta Szulkin, Colin J. Garroway, Michela Corsini, Andrzej Z. Kotarba and Davide Dominoni: How to quantify urbanisation when testing for urban evolution 3: James S. Santangelo, Lindsay S. Miles, Sophie T. Breitbart, David Murray-Stoker, L. Ruth Rivkin, Marc T. J. Johnson and Rob W. Ness: Urban environments as a framework to study parallel evolution 4: Jason Munshi-South and Jonathan L. Richardson: Landscape genetic approaches to understanding movement and gene flow in cities 5: Charles Perrier, Aude Caizergues and Anne Charmantier: Adaptation genomics in urban environments 6: Sarah E. Diamond and Ryan A. Martin: Evolutionary consequences of the urban heat island 7: Rebecca E. Irwin, Elsa Youngsteadt, Paige S. Warren and Judith L. Bronstein: The evolutionary ecology of mutualisms in urban landscapes 8: P.O. Cheptou and S. Lambrecht: Sidewalk plants as a model for studying adaptation to urban environments 9: Amanda J. Gorton, Liana T. Burghardt and Peter Tiffin: Adaptive evolution of plant life history in urban environments 10: R. Brian Langerhans and Elizabeth M.A. Kern: Urbanization and evolution in aquatic environments 11: Kristien I. Brans, Lynn Govaert and Luc De Meester: Evolutionary dynamics of metacommunities in urbanized landscapes 12: Kristin M. Winchell, Andrew C. Battles, Talia Y. Moore: Terrestrial locomotor evolution in urban environments 13: Caroline Isaksson and Frances Bonier: Urban evolutionary physiology 14: Tuul Sepp, Kevin J. McGraw and Mathieu Giraudeau: Urban sexual selection 15: Daniel Sol, Oriol Lapiedra, and Simon Ducatez: Cognition and adaptation to urban environments 16: Emmanuel Milot and Stephen C. Stearns: Selection on humans in cities

    1 in stock

    £49.40

  • Sensory Ecology Behaviour and Evolution

    Oxford University Press Sensory Ecology Behaviour and Evolution

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisThroughout their lives animals must complete many tasks, including finding food, avoiding predators, attracting mates, and navigating through a complex and dynamic environment. Consequently, they have evolved a staggering array of sensory organs that are fundamental to survival and reproduction and shape much of their evolution and behaviour. Sensory ecology deals with how animals acquire, process, and use information in their lives, and the sensory systems involved. It investigates the type of information that is gathered by animals, how it is used in a range of behaviours, and the evolution of such traits. It deals with both mechanistic questions (e.g. how sensory receptors capture information from the environment, and how the physical attributes of the environment affect information transmission) and functional questions (e.g. the adaptive significance of the information used by the animal to make a decision). Recent research has dealt more explicitly with how sensory systems are involved with and even drive evolutionary change, including the formation of new species.Sensory Ecology, Behaviour, and Evolution provides a broad introduction to sensory ecology across a wide range of taxonomic groups, covering all the various sensory modalities (e.g. sound, visual, chemical, magnetic, and electric) relating to diverse areas spanning anti-predator strategies, foraging, mate choice, navigation and more, with the aim being to illustrate key principles and differences. This accessible textbook is suitable for senior undergraduates, graduate students, and professional academics taking courses or conducting research in sensory ecology/biology, neuroethology, behavioural and evolutionary ecology, communication, and signalling. It will also be of relevance and use to psychologists interested in sensory information and behaviour.Trade ReviewThis book is an ambitious and successful attempt to integrate mechanistic and functional aspects of communication by the authors ... essential reading. * Tim Caro, The Quarterly Review of Biology *Table of ContentsPART 1: INTRODUCTION; PART 2: SENSORY PROCESSING; PART 3: COMMUNICATION; PART 4: DIVERSIFICATION AND DIVERGENCE; PART 5: CONCLUSIONS

    15 in stock

    £58.50

  • Foraging for Survival  Yearling Baboons in Africa

    The University of Chicago Press Foraging for Survival Yearling Baboons in Africa

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisA study of research carried out on foraging behaviour among African baboons and its consequences for survival and reproduction. Detailed data is provided on the feeding habits of each baboon, with an analysis of its nutrient intake. These figures are then compared with those in optimum diets.Table of ContentsAcknowledgments 1: Introduction 2: Eclectic Omnivory 3: Methods 4: Dietary Diversity 5: Adequate and Optimal Diets 6: Real versus Ideal Diets 7: Individual Differences and Age Changes 8: From Food to Fitness 9: Why Be Choosy? 10: How to Be an Eclectic Omnivore App. 1: Primate Nutrient Requirements and Toxin Limits App. 2: Alternative Definitions of Feeding Bouts App. 3: Survival Analysis of Bout Lengths App. 4: Observational Censoring of Feeding Bouts App. 5: Composition of Foods App. 6: Maximizing Rates, Michael A. Altmann App. 7: Procedure for Maximizing Rates App. 8: Seasonal Adjustments App. 9: Estimation of Individual Milk Intakes App. 10: Calculating Intakes of Individuals at Specified Ages Tables Notes Literature Cited Index Abbreviations for the Fifty-two Core Foods

    2 in stock

    £98.80

  • Foraging for Survival  Yearling Baboons in Africa

    The University of Chicago Press Foraging for Survival Yearling Baboons in Africa

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisA study of research carried out on foraging behaviour among African baboons and its consequences for survival and reproduction. Detailed data is provided on the feeding habits of each baboon, with an analysis of its nutrient intake. These figures are then compared with those in optimum diets.

    1 in stock

    £57.00

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