Bird versus Bulldozer

Audrey L. Mayer is a professor of ecology and environmental policy in the College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science at Michigan Technological University. Her research focuses on the intersection of ecology and public policy.

“A well-written and thoroughly researched book. Through a case study of the California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica), it provides a detailed examination of the struggle to conserve biodiversity in urban areas.”—Susan Catherine Cork, Conservation Biology“In Audrey Mayer, the California gnatcatcher has found its brilliant biographer, who in Bird versus Bulldozer identifies the myriad ways this small bird has protected Southern California’s once-rich biodiversity.”—Char Miller, author of Not So Golden State: Sustainability vs. the California Dream“Bird versus Bulldozer dives deep below simple headlines to reveal the complex, tragic, but ultimately hopeful story of the battle to save the California gnatcatcher and its ecosystem from extinction.”—Kierán Suckling, executive director, Center for Biological Diversity“In lively prose, Mayer brings us up to date on the long-running California gnatcatcher controversy, and articulates valuable lessons it teaches for conservation in today’s urbanizing, climate-challenged, world.”—Holly Doremus, University of California, Berkeley“Professor Mayer takes a deep dive into the science and policy of endangered species conservation, surfacing with a timeless and engaging read for all interested in birds, their shrinking habitats, and biodiversity in an increasingly urban world.”—John M. Marzluff, author of Welcome to Subirdia and In Search of Meadowlarks“Bird versus Bulldozer is deeply relevant to anyone who is interested in preserving natural ecosystems threatened by development.”—Robert A. Askins, author of Restoring North America’s Birds