A review by tfpjr492
What an Owl Knows: The New Science of the World's Most Enigmatic Birds by Jennifer Ackerman

challenging informative inspiring medium-paced

4.5

It seems that this is two books combined into one. The first book, “What an Owl Knows,” appropriately describes the incredible capabilities of owls. Take for example, Great Gray Owls, which have evolved into superb nighttime hunters. Great Grays hear their prey 12 to 18 inches below snow, and they can pinpoint their location for a quick and effective pounce. In addition Great Grays have exceptional vision due to several traits, not the least of which are their large eyes. Their eyes are 3 percent of their body weight. The author makes a comparison with human eyes. 

My orbs weigh in at just .0003 percent of my poundage. If my eyes were in similar proportion to my body … they would be about the size of an orange and weigh almost four pounds. 

 

The author does a good job of presenting many more details regarding the attributes of owls. She also confronts the common notion that owls are not as intelligent as other birds. 

 

It’s true that a large part of owl brains is dedicated to scanning and to sensing in their dark environment. But doesn’t that give them their own breed of genius, an amazing capacity to navigate their night world with a skill and deftness we can only imagine? 

 

The other material in the book could be organized into a second book, “How We Know about Owls.” The author brings to life the hard work of the many professional owl researchers. Read the book to learn how a disabled musician unlocked the mysteries of owl communication. Read the book to understand how creative owl researchers use the newest technologies to unravel the complexities of owl migration, to sort out the endangered species and much more. Read the book to be inspired by the tenacity of the dedicated owl researchers, who find a special joy despite their frustrations and hardships. 

 

Overall the scientific details are presented in a way that fascinates as well it illuminates. The author humanizes the search for knowledge. If the reader seeks an engrossing nature journey, this book will entertain.