The experiences of animals and our interactions with them

Some animals can “sense the electric fields given off by other living things,” says Ed Yong, a science writer at The Atlantic.

Animals are a rich part of many peoples’ life. But while they live beside us in our backyards, our parks, and our own homes, their actual lives — the way they experience and sense the world — is so often ignored.

We also go about our days indirectly tormenting the animals we have less connection with. Most Americans eat hundreds of pounds of meat each year. Additionally, light and sound pollution can sometimes result in death for many animals.

“Each creature is trapped within its own sensory bubble, perceiving just a small fraction of the fullness of reality.” — Ed Yong, The Atlantic


Listen: A new book explores various ways animals sense and interact with the world.

 


Ed Yong is a science writer at The Atlantic and the author of multiple books — including his most recent, “An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal the Hidden Realms Around Us.” Yong says that each animal has a unique perspective based on the sensory experiences its biology allows.

“Each creature is trapped within its own sensory bubble,” says Yong, “perceiving just a small fraction of the fullness of reality.”

Trusted, accurate, up-to-date.

WDET strives to make our journalism accessible to everyone. As a public media institution, we maintain our journalistic integrity through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.

Donate today »

Authors

  • Dynamic and diverse voices. News, politics, community and the issues that define our region. Hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Stephen Henderson, Detroit Today brings you fresh and perceptive views weekdays at 9 am and 7 pm.
  • Sam Corey is a producer for The Metro on 101.9 WDET. In that role, he goes out in search of fun and interesting stories for radio. He enjoys salsa dancing — and actual salsa.