Tales from the Ant World

Author Edward O. Wilson recounts his lifelong fascination with ants, from childhood encounters in Alabama to perilous journeys into the Brazilian rainforest. In this book, he takes readers on a myrmecological tour, from Mozambique to New Guinea, the Gulf of Mexico’s Dauphin Island, and even his backyard.

Wilson animates his observations with personal stories, focusing on 25 ant species to explain their communication, smell, taste, and dominance. He recounts encounters with fire, army, and leafcutter ants, as well as rare species like the Matabele, Africa’s fiercest warrior ants, and the Bull Ants, discovered in New Caledonia after presumed extinction.

Illustrated with depictions of ant species by Kristen Orr and photos from Wilson’s expeditions, Tales from the Ant World is a captivating and sometimes frightening personal account by one of our greatest scientists.

(This book may contain a sharpie mark on the top or bottom edge and may show mild signs of shelfwear.)