Birds through indigenous eyes Native perspectives on birds of the eastern woodlands

In this eye-opening outing, Gaffin (Running with the Fairies), an anthropology professor emeritus at SUNY Buffalo State University, collects his conversations with Bastine, an Algonquin healer, and Volpe, an Ojibwe animal rehabilitator, about their outlook on chickadees, cedar waxwings, and other birds native to New York State and Ontario. Bastine explains that Native Americans hold eagles in high esteem because the predators restrain themselves from retaliating against crows who attack them, sending a message to humans that "weapons should only be used to feed yourself." Bastine and Volpe emphasize the interconnectedness of the natural world, as when they discuss how woodpeckers protect trees by keeping insect populations in check while creating homes for other animals through the holes they bore. Bastine and Volpe also reflect on the Indigenous concept of "Natural Law" ("the Creator's program for the planet's harmony and sustainability") and contend that humans have upended that harmony with rampant pollution. Gaffin is careful to note that Bastine's and Volpe's views are "deeply shaped by their Native heritages" without necessarily representing the opinions of their Native communities, and the blend of anthropology and ornithology produces stimulating perspectives on what people can learn from the avian world. Birders will be glad they spotted this. Illus. (Apr.)

This book that explores Indigenous beliefs about the birds of the Northeastern United States is the result of a collaboration among anthropologist Gaffin (emeritus, SUNY Buffalo State Univ.; The Divinity Inquiry); healer/naturalist Michael Bastine, of Algonquin descent and a member of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation of western Quebec; and naturalist/animal rehabilitator John Volpe, of Ojibwe and Métis descent and a member of the Nipissing First Nation of Ontario. Volpe and Bastine describe to Gaffin the meanings and messages they perceive in the appearance and behavior of birds (chickadees, cedar waxwings, house sparrows, and more) and how these bird species adhere to the natural laws that humans--to their peril--have strayed away from. Gaffin presents the conversations verbatim, stressing how Volpe's and Bastine's perspectives reflect a cultural understanding shaped by the two men's personal observations and experiences. Interspersed with Gaffin's own bird encounters are Volpe's and Bastine's anecdotes about developing a non-judgmental relationship with all aspects of the natural world. They all warn against today's technologically driven disconnection from nature and the sacred. VERDICT This engaging work of ethno-ornithology is a must for bird watchers and readers who want to form a more profound relationship with nature.--Sara Shreve