One can’t help however feel a sense of marvel reading about the bar-tailed godwit, a bird the size of a football, whose winter season migration can take it from Alaska to New Zealand in one marathon flight throughout the Pacific Ocean. The ornithologists who’ve assisted us comprehend the phenomenon of migration influence marvel too. Their ingenuity and zeal are at the heart of Rebecca Heisman’s delightful debut, “Flight Paths: How a Passionate and Quirky Group of Pioneering Scientists Solved the Mystery of Bird Migration.”
Heisman, a science writer who spent five years working for the American Ornithological Society, begins with an overview of the seasonal movement of birds. Some don’t migrate at all, while others are categorized as either short-, medium-, or long-distance travelers. “Flight Paths” focuses on the latter, birds that, once the urge to migrate is triggered, travel for improbably extended stretches, “chasing booms in the availability of insects and other key foods and the right conditions to nest and raise babies.”
“Flight Paths: How a Passionate and Quirky Group of Pioneering Scientists Solved the Mystery of Bird Migration,” By Rebecca Heisman, Harper, 288 pp.
From there, the author proceeds chronologically, an astute choice that enables readers to appreciate how far scientists have come in understanding birds’ incredible journeys. We’re a long way from the 17th-century educator who was certain that birds migrated to the moon. The “gentleman ornithologists” the author features at the beginning of the book would regard more recent technological advances in tracking avian movement as the stuff of science fiction.
One significant method of studying birds, banding, has deep roots and is still popular today. Birds are gently captured in fine-meshed mist nets, and small numbered rings are attached to their legs in an attempt to trace their movements after release. While only a minute fraction of banded birds are found again, Heisman notes that the U.S. Geological Survey Bird Banding Laboratory annually distributes a million bands, so the numbers add up, yielding useful insights. Years of data have assisted researchers determine that many birds are adjusting their migration schedules in response to climate change.
About the editor
Hey there! I'm proud to be the editor of Pet News 2Day. With a lifetime of experience and a genuine love for animals, I bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to my role.
Experience and Expertise
Animals have always been a central part of my life. I'm not only the owner of a top-notch dog grooming business in, but I also have a diverse and happy family of my own. We have five adorable dogs, six charming cats, a wise old tortoise, four adorable guinea pigs, two bouncy rabbits, and even a lively flock of chickens. Needless to say, my home is a haven for animal love!
Credibility
What sets me apart as a credible editor is my hands-on experience and dedication. Through running my grooming business, I've developed a deep understanding of various dog breeds and their needs. I take pride in delivering exceptional grooming services and ensuring each furry client feels comfortable and cared for.
Commitment to Animal Welfare
But my passion extends beyond my business. Fostering dogs until they find their forever homes is something I'm truly committed to. It's an incredibly rewarding experience, knowing that I'm making a difference in their lives. Additionally, I've volunteered at animal rescue centers across the globe, helping animals in need and gaining a global perspective on animal welfare.
Trusted Source
I believe that my diverse experiences, from running a successful grooming business to fostering and volunteering, make me a credible editor in the field of pet journalism. I strive to provide accurate and informative content, sharing insights into pet ownership, behavior, and care. My genuine love for animals drives me to be a trusted source for pet-related information, and I'm honored to share my knowledge and passion with readers like you.
