Subirdia: Sharing Neighborhoods with Wildlife

“Welcome to Subirdia” is a recent book by well-known researcher John Marzluff, professor of wildlife science at the University of Washington. He and his student assistants have spent many years learning how a great variety of birds and other wildlife have adapted to and thrived in populated human environments. He tells how human actions affect the birds and animals that live in cities and towns. From this, he provides ten specific strategies everyone can use to make human environments friendlier for these natural neighbors. These include: do not covet your neighbor’s lawn; keep your cat indoors; make your windows visible to birds; don’t light up the night sky; provide food, water, and nest boxes and more.

“By practicing careful stewardship with the biological riches in our cities and towns,” Marzluff explains, “we can foster a new relationship between humans and other living creatures—one that honors and enhances our mutual destiny.”

Marzluff has also authored “In the Company of Crows and Ravens” and “Gifts of the Crow.” His work with crows was televised on the Public Broadcasting Station documentary “Nature” in the episode “A Murder of Crows.”

Whidbey Audubon Society hosts Dr. Marzluff on Thursday, Nov. 10. at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Freeland, at 7:30 p.m. Anyone with an interest in birds and wildlife is encouraged to attend this free program. Copies of “Welcome to Subirdia” will be available for sale.

Prior to the program, beginning at 6 p.m., is a special Bird and Nature Art Sale, just in time for holiday gift giving. Come early to purchase good quality bird and nature art. The Unitarian Universalist Congregation is located about two miles north of Freeland at 20103 State Route 525.

In case of bad weather, or unforeseen circumstances, check for updates on the Whidbey Audubon Society website.