Zoo Quest to Guiana

by David Attenborough

Hardcover, 1958

Status

Available

Call number

590 Attenborough

Genres

Collections

Your library, Read, High rated read

Publication

Reprint Society (1958), Hardcover

Description

This is the full story of the very successful B.B.C.-London Zoo expedition to British Guiana, that went to film exotic creatures and bring back alive, some of the strangest, some of the loveliest, and some of the most horrifying animals in the world.David Attenborough, who went with three companions, tells of their experiences in a country where they explored the broad flat savannahs, the creeks and swamps of the Rupununi, the remote forest reserve of the Amerindians, and the marshy coastal district.They searched for and found sloths and anteaters, manatees and macaws, hoatzins and humming-birds, snakes and spiders, capybara and caiman. They attended the exorcising of a spirit by a medicine man. They photographed ancient Indian rock paintings which few Europeans have ever seen. And they have met many unforgettable characters: Tiny McTurk, the tough rancher; King George, thei impassive Akawaio guide; Mr. King, the mermaid fisherman; and the shanty singers Lord Lucifer and The Great Smasher, to mention only a few.David Attenborough brings to this book his instinctive understanding of animals, his power of vivd description, and his lively sense of humour. Everybody will enjoy Zoo Quest to Guiana, for it is rich in delightfulstories about animals collected, frioends made, and the farcical situations in which the author and his companions frequently found themselves.… (more)

User reviews

LibraryThing member FallsGalloway

"Zoo Quest to Guiana" is a captivating travelogue written by David Attenborough, the renowned British naturalist and broadcaster. Published in 1956, the book documents Attenborough's expedition to the remote and unexplored wilderness of British Guiana (now Guyana) in South America.

The narrative

takes readers on a thrilling adventure as Attenborough and his team set out to capture and bring back exotic animals for the London Zoo. As the leader of the Zoo Quest television series, Attenborough combines his passion for wildlife with a quest for discovery, immersing himself in the vibrant ecosystems of the Guianan rainforest.

Attenborough vividly describes the awe-inspiring biodiversity he encounters, from the colorful birdlife to elusive mammals, reptiles, and insects. He showcases his deep appreciation for the natural world, sharing his insights into the unique adaptations and behaviors of the species he encounters.

As the expedition progresses, Attenborough delves into the cultural and historical aspects of the region, exploring the indigenous communities and their relationship with the natural environment. He sheds light on their customs, traditions, and knowledge of the local flora and fauna, offering readers a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between humans and their surroundings.

Throughout the book, Attenborough's passion for conservation shines through. He highlights the importance of preserving these diverse ecosystems and the need for responsible wildlife management. His observations and experiences provide readers with an educational and entertaining glimpse into the world of animal collection and the efforts to learn more about and protect the planet's biodiversity.

"Zoo Quest to Guiana" showcases Attenborough's engaging storytelling style, infused with humor, curiosity, and reverence for the natural world. The book not only captures the spirit of adventure but also serves as a valuable resource for nature enthusiasts, highlighting the importance of conservation and the wonders that await in remote corners of the globe.

Show Less