Bird Detectives - (Spotlight: Smithsonian Editions) (Hardcover)

About the Book

Birds and humans collide -- The first bird detective -- Collecting and comparing -- The feather experts -- A detective's tools -- The Viking pillow mystery -- Solving mysteries with DNA -- Developing solutions -- Future bird detectives.

Book Synopsis

Birds and planes don't always get along. What can we do to help? Enter the world of forensic ornithology in this investigative nonfiction title created with the Smithsonian Institution and the Division of Birds at the National Museum of Natural History. Discover the fascinating work of leading ornithologists--"bird detectives" who use science and technology to solve bird strikes and other bird mysteries. They examine evidence from clues like feathers and snarge--pilot slang for what's left behind after a bird strike--and create solutions to save our feathered friends and protect people and planes in flight. Discover how the study of birds shapes our world, from inspiring aviation and airfield design to increasing safety in the skies. Full of photos, case studies, fun facts, and interactive elements, this STEM exploration reveals a fascinating field of science to kids.