What an Owl Knows: The New Science of the World’s Most Enigmatic Birds

In science writer Ackerman’s latest birding deep dive, after The Bird Way, she shares the nuances of all things owl. Through her exploration of this worldwide parliament and spending time with owl researchers and their projects, Ackerman relates anecdotes derived from research findings, as well as special-interest stories. A variety of breeds including the great gray owl, snowy owl, burrowing owl, and barred owl, to name a few, are featured in discussions of owl breeding, communication, nesting habits, migratory tendencies, intelligence, and adaptability. Additionally, there’s an intriguing chapter on how owls are viewed in international cultures, favorably and otherwise. Ackerman concludes with a few tips on how to better share the planet with these majestic birds so they can thrive and so humans may continue to enjoy them for years to come. Keenly narrated by the author, who has a talent for mimicking owl vocalizations, thereby enabling listeners to better identify owl calls in the wild.