The Birds of Heaven: Travels with Cranes [B2000]

2001 HCDJ first edition in nice clean condition. A leading naturalist and writer travels the globe in search of a prized -and vanishing- bird. Cranes are ubiquitous in the earliest legends of the world's peoples, where they often figure as harbingers of heaven and omens of longevity and good fortune. They are still held sacred in many places, and for good reason. Their large size and need for wilderness habitat makes them an "umbrella species" whose wellbeing assures that of other creatures and of the ecosystem at large. Moreover, the enormous spans of their migrations are a symbol of, and stimulus to, international efforts at conservation.

In The Birds of Heaven, Peter Matthiessen has woven together journeys in search of the fifteen species of cranes in Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, and Australia. As he tracks them (and their declining numbers) in the company of scientists, conservationists, and regional people encountered along the way, he captures the dilemmas of a planet in ecological crisis, and the deeper loss to humankind if these beautiful and imposing creatures are allowed to disappear. The book includes color plates by renowned wildlife artist Robert Bateman.

From Amazon/GoodReads reviews: "Absolutely amazing and highly recommended for anyone fascinated by cranes, travel focused on nature exploration, or learning about the world, history and government through its relationship to keystone species. I waited to read the last two chapters on the North American Cranes - Sandhill and Whooping - until my daughter and I arrived in the Panhandle of Texas to witness hundreds of Sandhill Cranes wintering here. It was stupefying and the experience of a lifetime."; "Matthiessen's nature writing is something special, combining the calm of nature with the majesty of the greatest creatures, comprehensive in detail and with as much attention to each moment of landscape and interaction as to the strangest sights. That ease, and the honor Matthiessen gives to even the quietest moments, is what makes his works so special."; "I didn't think the subject matter would appeal to me, but I do know geography and travel adventure do appeal. I soon found myself immersed in fascinating details of landscapes, wildlife and cultures that co-exist with the 'Birds of Heaven'. Matthiessen weaves a compelling story of their diversity and struggles to survive and flourish in the modern world. Robert Bateman adds a classy element to the book with his paintings and drawings of the Birds of Heaven. 5 stars."; "Wonderful and spiritual book about a special bird."