The Feathery Tribe

This audiobook delves into the passionate and often contentious world of late 19th-century bird study, highlighting the complex interplay of science, ego, and evolving beliefs following Darwin’s theories. Through the story of Robert Ridgway, a prominent figure at the Smithsonian Institution, it explores the professionalization of ornithology and the influential roles of language, classification, and collection practices. Rich with insights into scientific communities, the narrative reveals new details about key institutions and innovations that shaped American and international bird research.