Wild Work: Adventures of Women Field Biologists

Inspiring and entertaining stories of wildlife, wild places, and wild adventures by women field biologists

• More than 40 real-life adventure stories by 37 women field biologists
• Takes readers behind the scenes with wolves, condors, bats, bears, and other wild animals
• Highlights the important work of women in field science and wildlife conservation

Wild Work is an inspiring and entertaining anthology that brings to light the often untold stories of women in wildlife science. Featuring first-person accounts by dozens of adventurous field biologists, this collection immerses readers in the thrilling and compelling reality of studying and conserving fish and wildlife across the globe.

From playing tag with wolves or cuddling wild foxes to wading through rivers filled with venomous snakes or evading poachers, these women share stories of courage, curiosity, and resilience. Alongside the adrenaline and adventure, they reveal the delicate balancing act of juggling demanding fieldwork with family life, the lifelong friendships they forge in the wild, and the transformative power of connecting deeply with the natural world. They also bear witness to the fact that while women have been integral to fish and wildlife research for decades, their stories have rarely been represented in literature.

Perfect for aspiring biologists, nature and animal lovers, or anyone captivated by outdoor adventures, this anthology offers a rare and powerful glimpse into the extraordinary work, risks, and rewards experienced by people who dedicate their lives to understanding and protecting our planet's wild inhabitants.

Susan B. Adams is an internationally recognized freshwater ecologist with a PhD in biology and ecology from the University of Montana. As a senior scientist at a federal agency, she researches crayfish and fish
ecology in freshwater ecosystems. She has presented her research on four continents and served as president of the International Association of Astacology (study of crayfish). An avid outdoor recreationist, she is committed to helping women find their places in science and the outdoors. Learn more at adamsecology.net.

Sophie A.H. Osborn is an award-winning writer and wildlife biologist who has worked with birds throughout the Americas. She contributed to reintroduction efforts for several endangered species, including as a field manager for the California Condor Recovery Program in Arizona. Her book Condors in Canyon Country won the 2007 National Outdoor Book Award for Nature and the Environment. American Birding Association reviewers chose her second book, Feather Trails: A Journey of Discovery Among Endangered Birds, as their favorite bird book of 2024. Learn more at wordsforbirds.net.

Review Quotes:

"These field biologists have studied everything from grizzly bears to fig wasps to California condors, and some have got the scars to prove it. Everybody's daughter needs to read these stories. So should you."--John Nielsen, author of Condor: To the Brink and Back

"By allowing us to step into their shoes and hearts, these courageous and dedicated women provide access to the wild creatures and ecosystems they are trying to save."--Tina Morris, author of Return to the Sky

"I read much of this captivating book in one sitting--one fascinating story after another continued to unfold. Each wonderful tale holds little gems about our precious natural world and our relationship with it."--Douglas W. Smith, author of Decade of the Wolf