Pests: How Humans Create Animal Villains

A fascinating and enlightening exploration of why we categorize certain animals as "pests" and others as "not," as well as what this reveals about our own perceptions, beliefs, and actions, as well as our place in the natural world. Pests is a story about human nature, and how we categorize the animals in our midst, including bears and coyotes, sparrows and snakes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2024
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

A squirrel scampers through the garden, a rat scurries along the wall, and a pigeon perches on the street. Throughout human history, a stark divide has been drawn between human spaces and the wild, with animals crossing this boundary often eliciting fear, anger, or mere annoyance. Once considered mere creatures, they are now labeled as pests, a classification that reflects our perceptions, beliefs, and actions as well as our place in the natural world.

Pests is a captivating exploration that goes beyond a mere examination of urban ecosystems. It is not a natural history of the animals we despise but rather a profound exploration of human nature. This book delves into the intricate ways in which we categorize animals, including those we consider pets and those we perceive as pests. It sheds light on the nuanced perspectives that shape our perception of these creatures, revealing the often-complex interplay between our desires, values, and the animals that inhabit our surroundings.

In many cases, the distinction between a pet and a pest is a matter of perspective. It is a reflection of our own biases, values, and cultural norms. For example, a beloved cat may be considered a pest by a neighbor who fears its potential for damage to their garden, while the cat's owner may view it as a cherished companion. Similarly, a bird that nests in a building may be viewed as a nuisance by some but a symbol of freedom and resilience by others.

Bethany Brookshire's meticulously researched and engaging book, Pests, offers a fresh perspective on the animals that often evoke our ire. It challenges readers to reconsider their views on these creatures and to appreciate their remarkable adaptations and resilience. Through vivid storytelling and compelling insights, Brookshire guides readers to venerate the qualities that make these animals successful, despite the efforts of humans to ensure their demise.

In this journey, Pests reveals much about humanity rather than the animals themselves. It sheds light on our complex relationship with the natural world, where our actions and beliefs can have profound impacts on the survival and well-being of other species. It prompts us to reflect on our own role in shaping the ecosystem and to consider the ways in which we can live in harmony with the animals that share our planet.

Ultimately, Pests is a thought-provoking and enlightening book that invites readers to reevaluate their perceptions of animals and to recognize the value of all living creatures, regardless of their perceived status. It serves as a reminder that our interactions with the natural world are interconnected and that a deeper understanding of the animals that surround us can lead to a more compassionate and sustainable world.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 134 x 204 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780063097261