The Homing Instinct: Meaning and Mystery in Animal Migration
Naturalist Heinrich (Life Everlasting, 2012) returns with another richly crafted title that immerses readers in the wild world. In this outing he focuses on the mysteries of migration and the homing instinct while also delving into the personal story of his own Maine home. From such expected migrators as birds and butterflies to moths, eels, and grasshoppers, Heinrich’s elegant passages (with line drawings) wander in and out of discussions on long travels, dwelling construction (bees are primary players), and “home crashers,” which include bed bugs and other pests. His trademark wit and self-deprecating humor are evident throughout, especially in a delightful chapter highlighting the intricate web building and preservation of a spider he rightfully dubs Charlotte. The many small illustrations of easily overlooked creatures combine to bring a story of life into focus. Whether in Alaska for the annual return of a pair of sandhill cranes or researching the lives of his land’s previous owners, Heinrich doesn’t lose sight of his goal—to understand why creatures great and small all long for a return to home. --Colleen Mondor