MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
August 19, 2014
Contact: Michelle Smith, Marketing Manager
msmith@maineaudubon.org
(207) 781-2330 x209
Mobile: (207) 838-0511
Maine Audubon & MHS Mark 100th Anniversary of Extinction of the Passenger Pigeon
Falmouth – September 1, 2014 marks the 100th anniversary of the death of “Martha,” the last surviving Passenger Pigeon, who died in captivity at the Cincinnati Zoo. In recognition of this historic event, Maine Audubon, in partnership with Maine Historical Society, will present Passenger Pigeons, Plovers & Puffins: A Story of Extinction & Survival on Tuesday, September 4 at 5:30 pm at Gilsland Farm Audubon Center in Falmouth.
A cash bar and light food will be offered. The event is free for Maine Audubon and Maine Historical Society members and $5/person for the public.
The Passenger Pigeon’s population in 1814 was estimated to be about 3.5 billion. There are countless first-person stories about skies turning black with pigeons in the nineteenth century. Why did such an abundant species go extinct in less than one hundred years? Attendees will learn why this bird went extinct, what other wildlife we lost over the past 100 years and what you can do today to protect threatened and endangered species. There will also be information about successful comeback species, like the Atlantic Puffin and Bald Eagle.
The talk will be led by Doug Hitchcox, Maine Audubon staff naturalist and Laura Minich Zitske, Director of the Piping Plover & Least Tern Recovery Project at Maine Audubon. Presented in partnership with Maine Historical Society. Attendees will also have the opportunity to see a series of paintings, Recently Extinct Birds of North America, by Maine artist Jada Fitch.
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About Maine Audubon
Maine Audubon’s science-based approach to conservation, education and advocacy advances wildlife and wildlife habitat conservation in Maine. Our citizen science programs connect Maine people to engaging volunteer opportunities that make meaningful contributions to conservation research. The largest Maine-based wildlife conservation organization in the state, Maine Audubon has eight centers and wildlife sanctuaries and serves over 50,000 people annually, with 15,000 members and 2,000 volunteers.
Conserving Maine’s wildlife. For everyone.
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