How do animals keep themselves well in the wild? Folklore and traditional medicine have long laid claim to feats of self-medication by animals, but, until recently, scientists have dismissed such stories as romantic anthropomorphism. This is now changing as more and more scientists uncover examples of insects, birds and mammals self-medicating their ills. Chimpanzees carefully select bitter-tasting anti-parasitic plant 'medicines' that counter intestinal parasites, elephants roam miles to find the clay which counters ...
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How do animals keep themselves well in the wild? Folklore and traditional medicine have long laid claim to feats of self-medication by animals, but, until recently, scientists have dismissed such stories as romantic anthropomorphism. This is now changing as more and more scientists uncover examples of insects, birds and mammals self-medicating their ills. Chimpanzees carefully select bitter-tasting anti-parasitic plant 'medicines' that counter intestinal parasites, elephants roam miles to find the clay which counters dietary toxins, and many birds species line their nests with pungent medicinal leaves and so improve their chick's chances against the ravages of skin parasites. This book, the first general overview of the emerging science of 'zoopharmacognosy', explores the behavioural strategies animals use to maintain health by resorting to no more mystical an explanation than Darwinian selection. These strategies have successfully endured the ravages of natural selection and could provide a solid basis for improving the health of animals in our care. By observing wild health and the many similarities with human self-medication, we may even discover (or rediscover) ways to further improve our own health.
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Seller's Description:
This is an ex-library book and may have the usual library/used-book markings inside. This book has hardback covers. Clean from markings. In good all round condition. No dust jacket. Please note the Image in this listing is a stock photo and may not match the covers of the actual item, 600grams, ISBN: 0297646842.
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Seller's Description:
Good. No dust jacket as issued. Ex-library. Usual library markings, stickers and pocket. Sewn binding. Cloth over boards. With dust jacket and mylar cover. 276 p. Contains: Illustrations. Audience: General/trade.
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Seller's Description:
Very Good+ in Near Fine d/j jacket. 8vo-over 7¾"-9¾" tall. Crease line on bottom outer corner about 1/4" from tip, circle S on top corner of front endpage. Green cloth spine and edges with gold lettering on spine, tan covers. 276 pages.
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Very good. Connecting readers with great books since 1972! Used books may not include companion materials, and may have some shelf wear or limited writing. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!