J. Drew Lanham

About the Author

J. Drew Lanham is a distinguished ornithologist, naturalist, and professor at Clemson University, where he holds the title of Liberty Hyde Bailey Jr. Professor of Biology. Born and raised in the rural South, Lanham's deep connection to the land shapes his poignant reflections on race, identity, and the environment. As an African American birder, he navigates the intersections of conservation and social justice, advocating for inclusivity in the outdoors. His acclaimed memoir, The Home Place: Memoirs of a Colored Man's Love Affair with Nature, weaves personal anecdotes with broader ecological insights, earning widespread praise for its lyrical prose and unflinching honesty. Lanham's work inspires readers to reconsider humanity's place within the natural world, fostering a more equitable stewardship of our shared planet.