For Love of Insects

This is a fabulous book!!!!!

This is a fabulous book!!!!! I had not thought of insects and chemicals so intimately. The various defense systems are another reason insects are so fascinating. I would read any Eisner book. I was sorry to hear of his passing earlier this year.

… Marci Hess, 10 November, 2011 - 4:26pm

Excellent

I've noticed and photographed many things over the years that left me wondering what exactly I witnessed. Having just finished the book, I now have several of those questions answered. I also have a new appreciation for the sophistication of insect defenses and behavior.

… Troy Bartlett, 31 October, 2004 - 10:29am

yes, isn't it?

I find that the more I learn about insects the more I appreciate them. Some of their camouflage (sp?) techniques are amazing! I love the Synchlora cat that dresses up in flower petals. Being a bit of a Lep enthusiast (rearing Saturnids for a number for years) I have often been amazed at how their sometimes gaudy - and beautiful - patterns and colors can possibly keep them safe - especially the larvae. I added Automeris io to my species this summer and although they seem to stand out in their many color variations and spines they would easily disappear into the sassafras leaves they fed on - while I was watching!

The fact that there are so many mini-beasts out there and no one person can know them all makes for a never-ending education. It has been nice to see books like Eisner's and Grissell's (do you have that on your list - have to check) which are read for anyone with interest and no need for an degree in entomology :)

… Bonnie Caruthers, 31 October, 2004 - 11:28am

Thomas Eisner's passing

Dr. Thomas Eisner (June 25, 1929 – March 25, 2011)--biographical links:
-NPR Blog obituary--The Man Who Dreamed He Was A Beetle
-Wikipedia--Thomas Eisner
-New York Times obituary, 4 April 2011 (linked slideshow is illustrated with Eisner's own photographs)

… Cotinis, 6 April, 2011 - 5:11pm