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The Genius of Birds
July 2020: Other Books
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[Poll Ballot] The Genius of Birds by Jennifer Ackerman - 4 stars
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This sounds like a very nice read Joy! I have had a a brilliant Red Cardinal in the tree outside my window, every evening about 6PM all summer long. And, this little bird sings his heart out every night, for my pleasure.
Joanne wrote: "This sounds like a very nice read Joy! I have had a a brilliant Red Cardinal in the tree outside my window, every evening about 6PM all summer long. And, this little bird sings his heart out every ..."Sounds like a little daily treat! I just love watching the birds. My cats do too - they are inside cats but they watch the birds for hours - it's like having "Cat TV" lol.
I enjoyed this one, too. She has another one that I'd like to read.The Bird Way: a new look at how birds talk, work, play, parent, and think
My daily entertainment requires me to keep three hummingbird feeders topped up. They fascinate me.
Jgrace wrote: "I enjoyed this one, too. She has another one that I'd like to read.The Bird Way: a new look at how birds talk, work, play, parent, and think..."
That one sounds interesting too. I have not tried any feeders....yet.
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Books mentioned in this topic
The Genius of Birds (other topics)The Bird Way: a new look at how birds talk, work, play, parent, and think (other topics)
Everything you ever wanted to know about birds, and more! The author has compiled research from many sources to convey the capabilities and talents of a wide variety of bird species. In addition to the scientific studies, Ackerman includes anecdotes, current speculations, and a bit of humor. It is logically arranged and flows smoothly. The author’s love of birds shines through.
Highlights include:
- Birds with a preference for certain colors and art types
- The ability to remember where they cached food supplies, even months later
- Vocalization and songs as a form of bird communication
- Birds making and using tools, and teaching their young to do so
- Gift-giving
- Recognition of facial expressions
It requires a strong interest in science, animal intelligence, ornithology, or ecology to fully appreciate it, as there is an enormous amount of information imparted in a somewhat technical manner. Ackerman recounts many experiments – the setup, controls, and results. I listened to the audiobook, read by Margaret Strom. Her voice has a pleasing tone and she reads well.
On a personal note, I have a water feature in my backyard and always look forward to the spring, when I can reactivate it after the snowy season. I watch the many varieties of birds (finches, cardinals, jays, robins, doves, sparrows, chickadees, and even quail) that come to drink, bathe, or play. It is one of the small joys of my year.