Nature's Flyers

David E. Alexander is an assistant professor in the Department of Entomology at the University of Kansas.

• Contents: Foreword, by Steven Vogel Preface ONE - Introduction TWO - How Wings Work THREE - Gliding and Soaring FOUR - Flapping and Hovering FIVE - Staying on Course and Changing Direction SIX - Fueling Flight SEVEN - Evolving Flyers EIGHT - Migrating NINE - Finding the Way TEN - The Global Impact of Animal Flight ELEVEN - Have the Birds and Bees Taught Us Anything Useful? Notes Glossary Bibliography Index

Scientifically accurate, up-to-date, and highly accessible, Nature's Flyers will interest not only amateur and professional ornithologists, ecologists, evolutionary biologists, physiologists, and engineers, but also anyone who is curious about the effects of flight on the evolution and diversity of the natural world. Biology Digest Alexander achieves the difficult feat of explaining intrinsically complex phenomena without using mathematical or entomological jargon. As a result, the book is clear, beautifully written, and suitable for people at all levels... It introduces readers to some long-standing puzzles... How do some insects manage to fly nonstop over hundreds of miles? How do migrating birds find their way?... I recommend the book to anyone who is curious about flight. -- Z. Jane Wang Physics Today Alexander does an excellent job of keeping the amazement and appreciation alive while clearly explaining the complexities of flight in a manner accessible to anyone... a thoroughly enjoyable and informative book. Choice This is a fascinating book and would make a valuable addition to the school library. -- Peter Anderson School Science Review 2006