Bill Schutt

Bill Schutt, a distinguished American zoologist and author, has crafted a remarkable career at the intersection of science and literature. Born and raised in New York, Schutt's academic journey led him from a Bachelor's degree in Biology at C.W. Post to a Master's at SUNY Geneseo, culminating in a Ph.D. in Zoology from Cornell University. His extensive knowledge and passion for the natural world have been further enriched by his long-standing role as a research associate at the American Museum of Natural History and his tenure as an Emeritus Professor of Biology at LIU-Post. Schutt's fascination with the peculiarities of the animal kingdom has driven him to explore themes that are as enlightening as they are unconventional. Among Schutt's most celebrated works is "Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History," a profound exploration of a subject often shrouded in taboo, which received accolades from esteemed publications including The New York Times and Scientific American. This book not only became a 2017 Goodreads Choice Award Finalist but was also recognized by the Chicago Public Library as one of the best reads of the year. His debut, "Dark Banquet: Blood and the Curious Lives of Blood-Feeding Creatures," captivated readers with its riveting portrayal of sanguivorous species, earning it a place among the Best Books of 2008 by Library Journal and Amazon. Schutt's literary prowess extends to fiction with the R.J. MacCready series, beginning with "Hell's Gate," which garnered critical acclaim and set the stage for subsequent thrilling narratives. Schutt's writing is characterized by a seamless blend of scientific rigor and engaging storytelling, often delving into the darker aspects of nature with a curiosity that invites readers to reconsider the natural world's complexities. His contributions to both scientific literature and popular science writing have established him as a prominent voice, illuminating the extraordinary behaviors and evolutionary marvels that define the animal kingdom. Through his books, articles, and widely viewed TED-Ed talks, Schutt continues to inspire a deeper understanding and appreciation of the biological intricacies that surround us.