Wildlife biologist and author connects the genetic dots between humans and wildlife to argue that we are not separate from nature

The motto of wildlife biologist and author Douglas Chadwick is “Do to ecosystems what you would have them do to you”. He has published 15 books and over 200 articles, including over 50 for National Geographic, with whom he has worked since 1977.

His writings have also been featured in other publications, including Wildlife Defenders, Audubon, The Huffington Post, Hiker, tv guide, The Smithsonian magazine, Sports Illustrated, Reader’s Digestand Outside. And he appeared in two PBS documentaries: grizzly night (2010) and Wolverine: Chasing the Ghost (2010).

In his latest book, “Four Fifths a Grizzly: A New Perspective on Nature that Just Might Save Us All,” Chadwick explores the surprisingly close relationship between human DNA and that of mammals like grizzly bears, with whom we share 80% of our DNA. . In it, he reflects on the value of exposure to nature on human biochemistry and mentality, on the fact that we are not so far removed from our ancestors who lived closer to nature.

Chadwick will present a free lecture next Friday, March 4 for the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society about his philosophy and his new book. His speech will take place at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ on Periwinkle Way from 10 a.m. next Friday.