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Great auk, Pinguinus impennis
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Great auk, Pinguinus impennis
The great auk, Pinguinus impennis, is one of the most powerful symbols of the damage humans can cause. The species was driven extinct as a result of centuries of intense human exploitation
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14238697
© Mary Evans / Natural History Museum
Alcidae Black Background Charadriiformes Extinct Great Auk Photograph Pinguinus Pinguinus Impennis Sauropsid Sauropsida Side View Specimen Studioshot Treasures
EDITORS COMMENTS
This striking photograph captures the powerful presence of the Great Auk, Pinguinus impennis, a species that once thrived in the cold North Atlantic waters. The Great Auk, a member of the Alcidae family and the order Charadriiformes, was a unique bird with a distinctive black body, white underparts, and large, wing-like flippers. Sadly, this magnificent creature is now extinct, driven to the brink of oblivion by centuries of human exploitation. The Great Auk was hunted relentlessly for its meat, oil, and feathers, which were highly prized for insulation and waterproofing. By the late 16th century, its numbers had dwindled significantly, and the last known Great Auk was sighted in 1844. This photograph is a poignant reminder of the historical significance and the tragic fate of the Great Auk. The bird is depicted in a side view, its powerful body and distinctive features on full display against a black background. The studio shot captures the bird's intricate details, from its beady eyes to its webbed feet, making it a true treasure for those interested in natural history. The extinction of the Great Auk serves as a powerful symbol of the damage humans can cause to the natural world. It is a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts and the need to protect endangered species from extinction. This photograph is not only a beautiful work of art but also a testament to the rich history of the natural world and the lessons we can learn from it.
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