Wild Animals at Home

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

27887

Title

Wild Animals at Home

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Ernest Thompson Seton invites readers into the Yellowstone Park, revealing the gentle, curious nature of wild animals when undisturbed by modern hunting. Through personal anecdotes and observations, this book explores the lives of coyotes, skunks, bears, and deer, challenging misconceptions about their ferocity and highlighting their resilience and charm in their natural habitat.

Summary up to 500 words

In *Wild Animals at Home*, Ernest Thompson Seton chronicles nearly thirty years of exploration across the Rocky Mountains, from British Columbia to Mexico, with a primary focus on Yellowstone National Park. Seton argues that the park's establishment in 1872 marked a pivotal shift in wildlife history. Prior to this, the advent of the rifle and the lawless skin hunter drove wild creatures into excessive shyness, turning once-tame game into fugitives. However, within the protected sanctuary of Yellowstone, animals have regained their traditional confidence in humans, emerging as friendly neighbors rather than fearsome monsters. Seton describes this region as a paradise for naturalists where wildlife is abundant and thriving. The book features intimate portraits of various species, challenging common misconceptions. Seton depicts the coyote not as a devilish figure but as a cunning, moral beast with a strong sense of family and humor. He illustrates the sociable nature of the badger, who often shares dens with coyotes, and portrays the skunk as a righteous defender who uses its spray only in peril. The majestic grizzly bear is presented with tempered might, often driven by curiosity over food sources like canned goods. Seton recounts specific adventures, such as a bobcat blinded by a skunk's spray and a grizzly bear rescued from a tin can trap, emphasizing the intelligence and social bonds of these animals. Enriched by over 150 sketches and photographs by Seton himself, the text illustrates tracks, behaviors, and family life, aiming to foster a better acquaintance between humans and wildlife. Seton urges readers to appreciate the "little aspects" of creature life that ordinary travelers can witness. Ultimately, the book serves as both a field guide and a plea for protection, celebrating the enduring spirit of wildlife in the face of human encroachment and advocating for a renewed respect for nature's inhabitants.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/27887.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg27887.epub

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Categories

• Fiction
• Science
• Nature