Enjoyed this exploration of how animals are responding to human encroachment , in many cases adapting to urban conditions. Of course, in other cases, they are going extinct rather than adapting . The author’s contention seems to be that it is happening and we ought to facilitate those that can adapt. It is controversial, but interesting and thought provoking ( )

As professor that teaches a small unit on evolution in her sophomore Biology course, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is not your typical science book. The author has constructed and presented the material with the thought of engaging all levels of science expertise which is fantastic. There is humor brought a subject that most would find dry. It is very well documented and relevant collection of research studies that show the reader how evolution is happening all around you and especially within the urban environment. Ther reader is taken on a journye that is described in detail and places you as the oberver doing the research study he is discussing. I am excited to share many examples with my class and will be recommending this book to students who wish to explore this topic. I know of one that already went out and bought it. ( )

This is a fascinating account of evolution happening in cities – evolution that is not happening at the rate of slow eons of geological time, but at a quicker almost break neck speed, pushed by man’s ever changing innovations. Bird wings subtly change shape to be able to escape upward more quickly, moths must adapt to the brighter LED lights, blackbirds sing at a higher pitch in order to be heard over traffic noises.

Each chapter recounts a different species adapting to human cities throughout the world. The anecdotes are great, and the writing lively – definitely not a dry, scientific tome on evolution.

Perfect light (non-political!) non-fiction. ( )

Not a simple book but an uplifting one. 80% of our biologists live in cities; they STUDY cities and there is a ton of life in cities. Our future cities will also be filled w. life. Dutch author, not a world wide view but also not a U.S view. Nice change. Species are evolving faster in cities than we expect -- will that accelerate?
A book for a serious curious nature lover.

Menno Schilthuizen geef de lezer een unieke inkijk op stedelijke ecosystemen en hoe dieren en planten zich aanpassen aan deze omgeving. In sommige gevallen kan je zelfs van evolutie spreken als er aantoonbare wijzigingen zijn in het DNA. Het boek beschrijft tal van voorbeelden, de kijk op de tuinen van Tokio is intrigerend. Maar toch is het boek wat langdradig en kon het beknopter. Het blijft echter een prima boek voor de (aankomende) stadsecoloog. ( )