Getting to Know the World's Most Misunderstood Bird
December 1, 2021
In this whimsical guide to pigeons commonly found in U.S. cities, science illustrator Mosco (Atlas Obscura Explorer's Guide for the World's Most Adventurous Kid) blends pigeon history, biology, identifying characteristics, and trivia sidebars. Mosco's amusing yet accurate artwork enlivens this book, which tackles subjects like DNA, domestication, pigeon war heroes, and mating, nesting, and feeding. VERDICT This informative selection will encourage city-dwelling nature lovers to observe and enjoy these ubiquitous birds that often get a bad rap.
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Starred review from October 1, 2021
Ask anyone to name at least one bird, and they may well say, ""pigeon."" Love them or hate them, the common pigeon, Columba livia, is found just about anywhere humans are found. Yet the book's subtitle says it all--pigeons are misunderstood by almost everyone who comes into contact with them. Mosco, a science communicator and cartoonist (Birding Is My Favorite Video Game, 2018), has written and illustrated the most perfect of popular science titles, one that teaches readers everything about a topic in an accessible, funny, and charming manner. We learn why pigeons are everywhere--because humans brought them along as they colonized the planet--and why we domesticated them in the first place--because they're good to eat and easy to raise. Mosco covers the history of pigeon-keeping, the heroic deeds of messenger pigeons during wars, their fascinating anatomy, and cool pigeon breeds. One fun chapter looks at all the colors and patterns found in feral flocks, while perhaps the most interesting chapter describes and decodes all that strutting and cooing we've all seen city pigeons perform. Enlivened throughout by Mosco's delightful cartoons, this book is a must-read for bird lovers and urban wildlife watchers.
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