Why Animals Talk: The New Science of Animal Communication

(Hardback)

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How communication works across the animal kingdom, for readers of Other Minds and Ed Yong Why Animals Talk is a scientific journey through the untamed world of animal communication. From the majestic howls of wolves and the enchanting chatter of parrots to the melodic clicks of dolphins and the spirited grunts of chimpanzees, these diverse and seemingly bizarre expressions are far from mere noise. In fact, they hold secrets that we are just beginning to decipher. For example, wolves - just like humans - possess unique accents that distinguish their howls, and not only do dolphins give themselves names, but they also respond excitedly to recordings of the whistles of long-lost companions. Chapter by chapter and animal by animal, Kershenbaum draws on his extensive research and observations of animals in the wild to explain the science behind why animals are communicating. Also revealing profound insights into our own language and why it is different, Why Animals Talks tells the comprehensive story of communication and how it works across the entire animal kingdom.

Reviews

He writes like me -- Richard Dawkins
Kershenbaum has a rare talent for scientific storytelling . . . Read this book and, I promise, youll never listen to animals in the same way again -- Jessica Pierce, author of Whos a Good Dog
Kershenbaum helps us perceive how other animals sense their worlds, and in doing so, explores the evolutionary roots of our own advanced language skills. It is fitting that a book about communication is so conversational and engaging, and it will give you a new perspective on the richness of nature -- Steve Brusatte, author of The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs
Quirky, insightful . . . based on a deep understanding of recent research -- Tim Clutton-Brock, author of Meerkat Manor
A new look at a fascinating subject -- Desmond Morris, author of The Naked Ape

Author Bio

Intrepid zoologist Dr Arik Kershenbaum is the world-leading expert in animal vocal communication, and has roamed the wilds of Europe, North America, the Middle East and Southeast Asia for over a decade, working to decipher it. He is a college lecturer and fellow at Girton College, University of Cambridge, and has published more than thirty academic publications. His previous book, The Zoologist's Guide to the Galaxy, was a Times/Sunday Times Book of the Year and was published in eleven languages.