Instinct and Intelligence in Birds

The study of animal behavior, as we understand it today, owes much to the pioneering insights of early naturalists and keen observers who dared to ask unconventional questions. While the term ethology would not formally emerge until the mid-20th century, its foundations were already being laid in publications that brought cutting-edge science to the public with remarkable clarity and openness.

This collection delves into various aspects of the animal world, from intelligence and communication to the unique traits of specific species such as cats, birds, and even the tiniest insects. Each volume is a focused exploration of a singular theme, offering readers a tapestry of observations, questions, and narratives that illuminate the complexity of the animal kingdom. What stands out, even to a modern reader, is the striking absence of anthropomorphic bias or moral judgment in these observations. Instead, the authors exhibit a refreshing curiosity and a commitment to describing animals on their own terms, free from human-centered narratives. This approach not only anticipates the ethos of modern ethology but also invites readers to marvel at the complexity and ingenuity of non-human life.

The articles in this collection explore a wide array of topics: from the intricate communication methods of birds to the problem-solving abilities of octopuses; from the social structures of ants to the remarkable navigational skills of migratory animals; from the cunning problem-solving abilities of corvids to the quiet intelligence of marine life. Each volume captures a moment in the history of science when curiosity and careful observation were essential tools for understanding life on Earth.

Written with clarity and devoid of the anthropomorphic biases common in the era, these narratives strive to portray animals as they are, offering descriptions and interpretations that still resonate with modern readers. The authors' dedication to objectivity and wonder laid the groundwork for what would eventually become the field of ethology—a scientific discipline devoted to studying animal behavior in natural settings.

Readers will find these volumes as engaging as they are informative. Each text blends storytelling with scientific rigor, making even the most intricate observations accessible to a wide audience. The original authors were skilled at capturing their readers’ imaginations while delivering substantive insights, a balance that ensures these works remain relevant today.

What makes this collection particularly compelling is its accessibility. The authors had the rare talent of making complex ideas understandable without oversimplifying or patronizing their readers.
For anyone curious about the roots of ethology or simply eager to lose themselves in tales of animal ingenuity, this collection offers a rare opportunity. Open these pages, and you’ll discover not only ethology in the making but also a celebration of the natural world in all its wonder and complexity.


The first six volumes, expected for publication the 8 February 2025, are offered at a pre-order price of $1.49 each (final price will be $1.99 per volume):

Instinct and Intelligence in Birds, by Francis H. Herrick

The Hive Mind. Social Insects and Their Secrets, by Various Authors

Instinct in Insects, by George Pouchet

The Intelligence of Ants, by George Romanes

Hypnotism in Animals, by Joseph Czermak

The Natural History of the Oyster, by Samuel Lockwood