Story of a unique species struggling against the forces of extinction. In 1990, only one was found to be living in the wild, so an emergency international rescue operation was launched and an amnesty declared, allowing private collectors to come forward with their illegal birds, possible mates for the last wild Spix. Juniper, Executive-Director of Friends of the Earth International, tells the dramatic story of the rescue operation, and of the humans whose selfishness and greed brought a beautiful species to the brink of extinction.
Tony Juniper is the Executive Director of Friends of the Earth and co-author of the award-winning PARROTS. He lives in Cambridge, and campaigns in the UK and worldwide on a broad range of environmental issues.
'This book is not primarily about biology, but about human egos and greed, and it is difficult to read it without wanting to weep... In this wise, angry and important book, Tony Juniper demonstrates that disagreement over the proper tactics for rescuing species near extinction is one of the prime forces that can drive them over the brink.' William ashworth, TLS 'A heartbreaking but encouraging book; as we were the agents of its downfall, so must we be of its salvation.' Richard Ellis, The Times 'Gripping and beautifully told' Country Life 'This is a triumph of passionate writing, a work of courage and importance. Read it and you will weep for the world, but read it you must.' Roger Deakin, BBC Wildlife Magazine 'Tony Juniper is a gifted storyteller...a joyful celebration of the natural world.' Guardian