The Extinction of Passenger Pigeons

Ectopistes MigratoriusBy : Jasmine Mohammed

3 facts about the Passenger Pigeon

• The Passenger Pigeon figured prominently in the diets of both Native Americans and the European settlers who arrived on the continent starting in the 16th century. • Scientist are now trying to resurrect the Passenger Pigeon• The last Passenger Pigeon was named ‘Martha’ and she died

September 1 1914

Why was the Passenger Pigeon going extinct?

The main reason as to why the Passenger Pigeon was going extinct was because, the humans over hunted this bird. The Native Americans used Passenger Pigeons for spiritual rituals and practises. In 1914 the Passenger Pigeon population declined noticeably. Once the Passenger Pigeon became extinct, humans decided to take action. By 1936 there was a prize for whoever could find a passenger pigeon, the prize was $300.

How to Passenger Pigeon can be protected

The Passenger Pigeon is extinct. Although scientist are trying to resurrect the Passenger Pigeon, this idea is debateable because; if scientist can resurrect the Passenger Pigeon then there will be other animals that can be saved; animals such as the Woolly Mammoth, or even the Dinosaurs. There is doubt to this idea; because if something goes wrong during the procedure, potential deaths can occur.

In the late 19th century there were many campaigns that tried to stop the passenger pigeon from becoming extinct but it was too late.

references

• http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/magazine/ngm-passenger-pigeon• http://www.wildbirds.org/apidesay.htm