Great auks were large flightless birds that lived in the North Atlantic for thousands of years before humans hunted them to extinction. The last breeding pair was killed in 1844, and the species was officially declared extinct in 1852. In a recent book, anthropologist Gísli Pálsson delves into the final days of the great auk, using accounts from Victorian ornithologists John Wolley and Alfred Newton to highlight the impact of human actions on species extinction.
Pálsson explains that great auks were hunted for their feathers, fat, meat, and oil by European sailors, particularly in Newfoundland. The great auks also faced genocide by these sailors, leading to a rapid decline in their population. The last pair was caught on Eldey Island in 1844, marking the end of the species.
The book discusses how Newton and Wolley’s expedition to find the great auk in 1858 shed light on the concept of extinction as a human-caused process. Newton’s realization that extinction was a tangible threat paved the way for future conservation efforts and highlighted the importance of preserving biodiversity.
While the great auk is gone, the question of de-extinction arises. Pálsson acknowledges the interest in bringing species back to life but cautions against the complexity and cost involved. He believes that efforts should focus on preventing the extinction of existing species through conservation and habitat preservation.
In conclusion, Pálsson’s book offers valuable insights into the history of the great auk and the lessons we can learn from its extinction. By understanding the impact of human actions on biodiversity, we can work towards protecting and preserving vulnerable species in the future.
