Books

For those who want to learn more about biodiversity and what actions you can take to support the birds, pollinators, and other wildlife in your community, below is a list of excellent books. These are available on numerous websites and in multiple formats. Preener is not affiliated with these authors or publishers and is not compensated for these recommendations.

	(1994) The Beak of the Finch: A Story of Evolution in Our Time Evolutionary biologists Peter and Rosemary Grant of Princeton University began studying the finches on Daphne Major, one of the Galapagos Islands, in 1974. Since finches have short life spans, they were able to observe physical changes in the finches over multiple generations. Simultaneously, they meticulously documented the weather and plant life crucial to the finches. The extensive data revealed a clear correlation between the evolution of both flora and fauna in response to climatic shifts. This Pulitzer Prize winner clearly illustrates the intricacies of the web of life.
	(2014) The Living Landscape: Designing for Beauty and Biodiversity in the Home Garden Douglas Tallamy, professor in the department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware, shares strategies on how to create an exquisite family-friendly yard that has it all: beauty, play areas, edible plants, as well and food and shelter for your local wildlife.
	(2015) Planting in a Post-Wild World: Designing Plant Communities for Resilient Landscapes Landscape design experts Thomas Rainer and Claudia West describe the unique growth patterns of plants in the wild compared to a traditional garden. Learn how to transform your garden to one that is eco-friendly, and richly layered with a strong sense of harmony and place.
	(2018) Dirt to Soil: One Family’s Journey into Regenerative Agriculture Gabe Brown, a pioneer in the current soil health movement, shares how a financial crisis prompted him to rethink how he managed his 5,000-acre farm in North Dakota leading him to regenerative agriculture, which has yielded a plethora of tangible and intangible benefits.
	(2020) Nature's Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation That Starts in Your Yard Douglas Tallamy, professor in the department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware, details how everyone with a yard can make a positive environmental impact. He clearly explains the current biodiversity crisis and advocates for home gardens and landscaping that provide habitats for native species.
	(2021) The Nature of Oaks Douglas Tallamy, professor in the department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware, emphasizes the importance of the mighty Oak. Oak trees are a keystone species, meaning they play a vital role in the ecosystem and are essential for its survival. A single oak tree can provide food for over 100 animals. The leaf litter and soil beneath oak trees provide cover, breeding grounds, and nourishment for millions of organisms. The book offers tips on selecting, planting, and nurturing these vital trees.
	(2021) The Vegetable Garden Pest Handbook: Identify and Solve Common Pest Problems on Edible Plants - All Natural Solutions! Master gardener Susan Mulvihill imparts her vast knowledge on managing garden ailments and pests, encompassing creatures such as animals, arachnids, mollusks, and bugs. The visuals are exquisite, and include "mugshots" of infamous offenders.
	(2023) The Regenerative Landscaper: Design and Build Landscapes That Repair the Environment Eric Ohlsen, master of regenerative design, delves into the pressing biodiversity crises, urging individuals to embrace stewardship of the earth while offering expert advice on creating and cultivating a permaculture sanctuary that nurtures the indigenous ecosystem.
	(2024) Nature's Action Guide: How to Support Biodiversity and Your Local Ecosystem Author Sarah Jane, organic market farm and nursery owner, helps homeowners and renters take the actions needed to support biodiversity wherever they live and work, and play. The book features fifteen urgently needed actions, each including a checklist, step-by-step instructions, recommended resources, and informative tips.