For Her Love of Birds

The extraordinary untold story of Australian naturalist and taxidermist Jane Ward Tost

By: Jane Melville

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Paperback | 1 April 2026

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23.4 x 15.3

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Jane Ward Tost defied 19th century societal constraints to become one of England’s leading naturalists and taxidermists.

A peer of John Gould and John James Audubon, Jane’s artistic talent and technical expertise captivated museum visitors around the globe. But Jane’s incredible achievements were not easily won. She lived a highly eventful life, showing remarkable resilience in the face of profound difficulties.

Meticulously researched and beautifully written by museum curator, biologist and writer Jane Melville AM, this enthralling biography follows the extraordinary life of Jane Ward Tost (1816–1889), Australia’s first salaried female museum employee. Forgotten by history, she left an indelible legacy.

About the Author

Jane Melville is a highly respected biologist and museum curator. She has over 20 years’ experience working in museums, leading research on Australia’s reptiles, frogs and birds. Jane’s research has been supported by a Fulbright Fellowship and a Churchill Fellowship. Her contributions to the museums sector have been recognised with the award of a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia.

Jane is the author of Dragon Lizards of Australia: Evolution, ecology and a comprehensive field guide, along with numerous popular science articles in magazines such as The Conversation, Cosmos, Australasian Science and Science Victoria. Jane now spends much of her spare time uncovering stories about the people who have shaped our knowledge of the natural world.

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