WHO:             Etienne Benson

                      Assistant Professor of History and Sociology of Science

                      University of Pennsylvania

WHAT:          Penn Science Café series lecture and discussion, “How the Gray Squirrel Conquered the American City”

WHEN:          Tuesday, Feb. 11, 
6-7 p.m. 

WHERE:        World Cafe Live Upstairs, 3025 Walnut St.

Gray squirrels are now numerous — some would say overly numerous — in many American cities, but it hasn't always been that way. In the second half of the 19th century, squirrels were intentionally released in public squares, town greens and urban parks across the country, where they were often fed and provided with nest boxes. In this talk, Etienne Benson will explore how and why squirrels flourished in their new environment and what we can learn from their history about changing American views of nature, animals and the city. 

The talk is part of the Penn Science Café free public-lecture series presented by the School of Arts and Sciences and the Office of University Communications that takes science out of the lab for a night on the town. Dr. Benson’s presentation will be followed by an audience Q&A. 

Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Seating is limited.