How scientific advances in genetic modification will fundamentally change the natural world The process of manipulating the genetic material of one animal to include the DNA of another creates a new transgenic organism. Several animals, notably goats, mice, sheep, and cattle are now genetically modified in this way. In Our Transgenic Future, Lisa Jean Moore wonders what such scientific advances portend. Will the natural world become so modified that it ceases to exist? After turning species into hybrids, can we ever get back to the original, or are they forever lost? Does genetic manipulation make better lives possible, and if so, for whom? Moore centers the story on goats that have been engineered by the US military and civilian scientists using the DNA of spiders. The goat's milk contains a spider-silk protein fiber; it can be spun into ultra-strong fabric that can be used to manufacture lightweight military body armor. Researchers also hope the transgenically produced spider silk will revolutionize medicine with biocompatible medical inserts such as prosthetics and bandages. Based on in-depth research with spiders in Florida and transgenic goats in Utah, Our Transgenic Future focuses on how these spidergoats came into existence, the researchers who maintain them, the funders who have made their lives possible, and how they fit into the larger science of transgenics and synthetics. This book is a fascinating story about the possibilities of science and the likely futures that may come.

Praise for "The Alpacas of Stormwind Farm"

If I were an alpaca, I would want to live on the author's farm. Ingrid Wood writes with respect and compassion about the animals that inhabitStormwind Farm. It is refreshing to read an honest and insightful chronicle of daily farm life. A worthwhile read.

Jovi Larson

Fibergenix Suris

If you are new to the world of alpacas, or are seriously considering becoming a breeder, this is the perfect book-kept beside your bed or in yourtote/briefcase-to read as free moments present themselves. It will be time well spent.

Sharon Parsons

Editor

"The International Camelid Quarterly

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"The Alpacas of Stormwind Farm"is a delightful read, and I highly recommend it to folks who have a warm spot in their hearts for the trials and tribulations-and great rewards-of thesmall farm. I feel like I know each alpaca, personally. It's been my pleasure to visit Ingrid and her animals. Stormwind Farm offers a lovelylandscape of efficiency and a sense of well-being for humans, alpacas, and other resident creatures.

Denise Como

Wolfwind Farm

This book is "co-authored" by eighteen dogs, all of whom have lived with the author at one time or another. The dogs lend a unique perspective into their behaviors, adventures, illnesses, accidents and humorus episodes. Animal lovers will appreciate their mindset.

Hal Markowitz has been an internationally popular lecturer and consultant on environmental enrichment for four decades. Enriching Animal Lives is chock full of recipes for enriching lives of a wide range of animals along with a generous sprinkling of personal experiences. This book will be of interest to those working in zoos, aquariums, wild animal parks, and animal rehabilitation facilities. It will also be of interest to all animal lovers, especially those with companion animals and scientists conducting research with captive animals. A detailed discussion concerning what represents meaningful environmental enrichment and the need to empower animals is provided in early chapters. The final chapter is a brief autobiographical description of events that led the author to pursue a career in science and teaching, and concludes with why that has been so enriching for him.