“In prose as clear as water [Courtney Humphries] writes a compelling story of how pigeons conquered the world, while threading in history, anecdotes, and even the way that the birds we now consider a nusance helped Darwin create the theory of evolution.” - David Gessner, author of Return of the Osprey and Sick of Nature
“Superdove is one of the best natural history reads I’ve had in years.” - Ted Kerasote, author of MERLE'S DOOR: LESSONS FROM A FREETHINKING DOG
“Smart and affectionate all at once, that sheds light on how one animal’s “nature” can be another’s Fifth Avenue. Reading it is simply a delight.” - Robert Kanigel, Director, Graduate Program in Science Writing , MIT
“Enteratining and thorough account of the bird’s colorful history.” - Audobon Magazine
“Humphries makes us care about the lowly urban pigeon.” - Booklist
“Accessible and well-researched account” - New Scientist
“A cultural, historical, and biological study of the timeless human-pigeon relationship...giving meaning to a species you once saw as dirty and dull--if you saw them at all.” - New York Observer
“How did this ‘un-bird,’ as some scientists deride Columbia livia, become part of every city’s natural environment? The answers span georgraphy, evolution, and culture, but the excellent SUPERDOVE goes beyond, to explore what pigeons reveal about human nature. It isn’t always pretty...Humphries is a wonderful storyteller, with a sly sense of humor and a light touch.” - New York Times Book Review
“Humphries follows the pigeon’s development as a game bird, a cheap food source, a highly prized messenger service, and ultimately, a modern-day pest...Humphries succeeds in examining something everyone takes for granted, and proving that it’s worthy of a second look.” - The Onion
“A fascinating biography.” - SEED Magazine
“A first-person blend of science and culture.” - USA Today