Birds, Sex & Beauty – Matt Ridley

Description

In Birds, Sex & Beauty, acclaimed science writer Matt Ridley explores the fascinating world of avian mating rituals to illuminate the origins and ongoing significance of Darwin’s theory of sexual selection. From the leks of the Black Grouse on the Pennine moors to the intricate bowers of Australian Bowerbirds, Ridley studies how birds choose their mates and why beauty, song, and elaborate displays play a vital role in evolution.

Following five generations of biologists—from Darwin and Wallace to contemporary researchers—Ridley reveals the sometimes eccentric and always captivating history of sexual selection. Combining elegant nature writing with evolutionary insight, Birds, Sex & Beauty shows how mate choice has shaped not only the natural world but also humans, offering readers a breathtaking view of the beauty, passion, and drama of life itself.

Perfect for bird lovers, evolutionary biology enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the science behind beauty and attraction, this book blends rigorous research with infectious enthusiasm.