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Great auk, Pinguinus impennis Extinct
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Great auk, Pinguinus impennis Extinct
Great auk, Pinguinus impennis. Extinct.. Illustration drawn and engraved by Richard Polydore Nodder. Handcolored copperplate engraving from George Shaw and Frederick Nodders The Naturalists Miscellany, London, 1800
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Media ID 14218588
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Extinct Fredericknodder Georgeshaw Naturalhistory Richardpolydorenodder Thenaturalistsmiscellany
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Great Auk, Pinguinus impennis: A Regretted Loss to the Natural World This striking handcolored copperplate engraving by Richard Polydore Nodder, published in George Shaw and Frederick Nodder's The Naturalist's Miscellany in 1800, captures the distinctive features of the Great Auk, Pinguinus impennis, a flightless seabird that once thrived in the North Atlantic. The Great Auk, also known as the Greater Auk or Divering, was a large, penguin-like bird, measuring around 70 cm in length and weighing up to 5 kg. It had a black back and wings, a white underbelly, and a distinctive red eye. The Great Auk was an excellent swimmer and diver, but it was unable to fly. Instead, it would waddle on land, making it an easy target for predators. Unfortunately, the Great Auk's unique appearance and accessibility made it a popular target for hunters. By the late 16th century, its numbers had begun to decline rapidly, and it was extinct by the mid-19th century. The last known Great Auk was reportedly seen in 1844 off the coast of Newfoundland. This engraving is a poignant reminder of the Great Auk's former presence in the natural world. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts to protect endangered species and preserve biodiversity. The Great Auk's extinction is a loss not only to the natural world but also to human history and culture. The intricate details of the engraving, from the Great Auk's feathers to its beak and feet, showcase the skill and artistry of the engraver. The handcoloring adds depth and vibrancy to the image, making it a beautiful and intriguing addition to any collection of zoological or natural history prints.
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