author
A zoologist and mammalogist with a special interest in wild mammals, he wrote clear, focused studies on bats, raccoons, and other species. His work blends field observation with careful classification, making even specialized natural history feel grounded and readable.
Howard J. Stains, also listed as Howard James Stains, was an American zoologist and mammalogist who taught at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, where he later became emeritus professor of zoology. Reference sources also connect him with major mammal handbooks, including a contribution to Recent Mammals of the World.
His published work centered on mammals, especially taxonomy, identification, and natural history. Projects and listings under his name include studies of bats from Mexico, work on raccoons and furbearers, and other research in mammalogy. That mix of fieldwork and classification gives his writing a practical, scientific feel that still appeals to readers interested in how species are described and understood.
Available records indicate he lived from 1924 to 2005. While biographical details online are limited, the surviving bibliography shows a steady career devoted to studying mammals and sharing that knowledge through concise, research-based writing.