<p>Chickens, puffins, eagles, canaries, pelicans, and other birds are recruited by humans to help us interpret changes in our complex and unpredictable world. These amazing creatures continually sample the atmosphere, oceans, forests, and insect populations, signaling toxic and environmental dangers that threaten all vertebrates.<br /><br />Through personal stories and colorful examples, Nobel prize-winner Peter Doherty shows readers how birds are vital to cutting-edge scientific research. By studying birds, we can further understand the nature of human diseases such as cancer, malaria, and influenza, and develop new vaccines and cures. In his engaging and enthusiastic way, Peter argues that the insights birds provide us will have a significant impact on our future.<br /><br />By endangering the lives of birds through human activities, we ultimately present a threat to our very own well-being. <i>Their Fate is Our Fate</i> shows why we should give our feathered friends our close and sustained attention.</p>