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An engrossing and revealing study of why we deem certain animals “pests” and others not—from cats to rats, elephants to pigeons—and what this tells us about our own perceptions, beliefs, and actions, as well as our place in the natural worldA squirrel in the garden. A rat in the wall. A pigeon on the street. Humans have spent so much of our history drawing a hard line between human spaces and wild places. When animals pop up where we don’t expect or want them, we respond with fear, rage, or simple annoyance. It’s no longer an animal. It’s a pest.At the intersection of science, history, and narrative journalism, Pests is not a simple call to look closer at our urban ecosystem. It’s not a natural history of the animals we hate. Instead, this book is about us. It’s about what calling an animal a pest says about people, how we live, and what we want. It’s a story about human nature, and how we categorize the animals in our midst, including bears and coyotes, sparrows and snakes. Pet or pest? In many cases, it’s entirely a question of perspective.Bethany Brookshire’s deeply researched and entirely entertaining book will show readers what there is to venerate in vermin, and help them appreciate how these animals have clawed their way to success as we did everything we could to ensure their failure. In the process, we will learn how the pests that annoy us tell us far more about humanity than they do about the animals themselves.

Blogger and Writer

Postdoctoral researcher for Dr. Irwin Lucki studying the effects of chronic antidepressant treatment in mice.

I obtained my PhD in the laboratory of Dr. Sara Jones in the department of Physiology and Pharmacology, studying the interactions of dopamine and serotonin systems following chronic methylphenidate administration in mice.

Teaching Assistant for Graduate Neuroanatomy course, teaching laboratories and lecturing graduate students in the departments of Neuroscience, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, and the Post-Baccalaureate Program. Presented lectures on motor systems and basal ganglia, and guided laboratory work for students in all areas of neuroanatomy. Prepared lectures, practical and written examinations, and study guides.

Lecturer for the Physical Therapy Masters Program, PHT 7401, teaching General Physiology and General Pharmacology, concentrating in Endocrine and Reproductive Physiology and Pharmacology.