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15 of the best wildlife conservation books

GVI

Posted: January 21, 2023

Are you looking for some inspiration and education on the topic of wildlife conservation? There are so many fascinating books out there that will give you a deeper understanding of the issues facing our planet and the animals that call it home. Here’s a list of 15 of the best wildlife conservation books to add to your shelf or digital library.

1. Silent Spring – Rachel Carson

This groundbreaking 1962 book exposed the detrimental effects of pesticide use on the environment and ignited the modern environmental movement. Carson’s research and writing helped raise public awareness about the dangers of chemical pesticides and led to the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

2. The Last Panda – George Schaller

The Last Panda is a fascinating account of Schaller’s work studying pandas in their natural habitat and the conservation efforts aimed at saving this beloved species. It offers a unique insight into the challenges of protecting an animal that is both beloved and threatened.

3. The Hidden Life of Trees – Peter Wohlleben

Have you ever wondered if trees can communicate, learn, and create bonds with other inhabitants of nature? This book will change the way you think about the natural world and the interconnectedness of all living things. It will make you appreciate the importance of preserving the natural world.

Wildlife conservation book on butterflies

4. The Elephant Whisperer – Lawrence Anthony

This is a heartwarming and emotional story about Anthony’s work with a herd of wild elephants in South Africa. It highlights the intelligence and emotionality of elephants, and the importance of conservation efforts to protect them.

5. The End of the Game – Peter Beard

For a beautiful coffee table book that combines photographs, diary entries, and illustrations to document the declining populations of big game animals in Africa – The End of the Game is striking. It is a powerful testament to the importance of conservation and the devastation caused by overhunting.

6. The Unnatural History of the Sea – Callum Roberts

This is a sobering look at the impact of human activities on the world’s oceans. It offers a stark warning about the consequences of overfishing, pollution, and other human activities on marine life and the health of the entire ocean ecosystem.

7. The Sixth Extinction – Elizabeth Kolbert

The Sixth Extinction is a comprehensive look at the current mass extinction, caused largely by human activities. It is a sobering reminder of the impact we have on the planet and the importance of conservation efforts to protect Earth’s biodiversity.

8. The Wild Trees – Richard Preston

This is a thrilling journey into the canopy of old-growth redwood forests. It tells the story of a group of scientists and hobbyists who explored and studied the forest canopy and the life forms that lived there.

9. The Tiger – John Vaillant

This is a gripping true story about a man-eating tiger in Russia and the efforts to track and capture it. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving wildlife and their habitats.

10. The Gorilla Game – Mark James Owens

This is a memoir of Owens’ experiences working as a gorilla researcher in Rwanda. It is a fascinating look at the lives of gorillas and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting them.

11. The Great Ape Project – Paola Cavalieri and Peter Singer

This is a collection of essays and articles on the moral status of nonhuman animals, particularly the great apes. It’s an important read for anyone interested in conservation ethics.

12. The Snow Leopard – Peter Matthiessen

Follow the unforgettable spiritual and physical journey of a naturalist on an expedition into the remote Himalayan mountains of Nepal. Experience the dangerous and difficult challenges they faced, and the magical experience with nature – including a glimpse of the mythical snow leopard.

13. The Future of Life – E.O. Wilson

Wilson, a renowned biologist, lays out the scientific case for preserving biodiversity and offers practical solutions for protecting our planet’s rich array of life forms. A serious call to action for conservation of life on Earth.

14. The Death and Life of Great American Cities – Jane Jacobs

This is an influential work of urban studies that looks at the impact of city planning on the livability and sustainability of cities. It is a must-read for anyone interested in conservation and urban development.

15. The Anthropocene Reviewed – John Green

A unique collection of personal essays that review different aspects of human impact on the planet, from the extinction of specific species to the changing climate. It’s a thought-provoking and insightful read that encourages reflection on our relationship with the natural world.

So there you have it, 15 of the best wildlife conservation books out there. Each one offers a different perspective on the issues facing our planet and the animals that call it home. Whether you’re a seasoned conservationist or just starting to learn about these important issues, these books are sure to inspire and educate you. So, grab a book, curl up, and start reading!

One of the best ways to help conservation is to educate yourself and spread the word to others. Another way is to put your values and believes into practice. Check out the wildlife conservation volunteer programs, internships, research fellowships and professional apprenticeships that GVI has available.

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