FEATHER TRAILS; A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY AMONG ENDANGERED BIRDS
A book by Sophie A. H. Osborn
In Feather Trails wildlife biologist, Sophie A. H. Osborn, tells her personal story of a trio of conservation projects with which she has been involved to save endangered and threatened bird species in the United States.
Peregrine Falcons — She first became involved in conservation in the early days of reintroducing Peregrine Falcons in the U.S. Living in a tent on a mountain in Wyoming she tended to five captive bred birds, until they were ready to fledge, and then monitored them as free flying falcons. As we know from our experience here in Pittsburgh, these efforts were successful.
Hawaiian Crows — Osborn also describes in detail her time working with endangered Hawaiian Crows in the cloud forests of Hawaii. These playful birds may be the most imperiled of the three species profiled in the book. Osborn reports that habitat destruction and climate change may relegate this species to only existing in captivity.
California Condors — For many years California Condor numbers were in free fall. In the 1980s there were only twenty-two remaining. A debate raged on for years about what could be done. Some felt that the majestic birds should be allowed to become extinct with dignity. Others won the argument and started a captive breeding program. The author became involved after over a hundred captive-bred birds had been released. Her years working with condors in the Grand Canyon were fascinating.
Feather Trails paints a compelling picture of the dedication and commitment of wildlife biologists to protect wildlife and the environment. The book invites us to contemplate the many issues that contribute to why certain species became threatened and what choices we can make to help with their recovery.
— by Sheree Daugherty
