Mr. Hornaday's War: How a Peculiar Victorian Zookeeper Waged a Lonely Crusade for Wildlife That Changed the World

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William Temple Hornaday, a complex and contentious figure, was a pioneering conservationist whose adventures included tracking tigers and hunting crocodiles. He transformed from a big-game collector to a passionate defender of endangered species, founding the National Zoo and directing the Bronx Zoo. Despite his significant contributions, including saving the American bison from extinction, Hornaday's legacy is marred by contradictions, such as his past as a trophy hunter and controversial exhibits. This biography delves into his life, highlighting his impact on conservation while addressing his moral complexities.