Despicable Species: On Cowbirds, Kudzu, Hornworms, and Other Scourges

In fourteen glorious essays, Despicable Species ponders some of the most loathsome creatures on the planet. But for every nasty reputation, there is a silver lining, which Lembke brings to our attention with dazzling bits of history, science, and culture. Lembke describes the horse fly as a blood-sucking insect with a walloping sting whose maggots exude chemicals that aid in healing human tissue, and that famous infant abandoner the cow-bird. She also writes about the hornworm, the opossum, and the deadly microbe Pfiesteria piscicida. And finally, she reveals our very own despicable species: Homo sapiens.

In fourteen gloriously revelatory essays, Lembke ponders some of the most loathsome creatures on the planet. But for every creature's nasty reputation, there is a silver lining, which Lembke brings to our attention with dazzlingly researched bits of history, science, and culture. These beautifully written pieces are graced with fantastic allusions to Greek and Roman mythology, Shakespeare, and classical music - as well as downright hilarious personal anecdotes. It is proof of the symbiosis of all living things, and of the undeniable truth that we are all stuck with one another on this small and fragile planet. All lovers of nature and lovers of natural storytellers will love Despicable Species. (6 x 9, 232 pages, illustrations)