AN EXTINCT GREAT AUK (PINGUINUS IMPENNIS) FEATHER

AN EXTINCT GREAT AUK (PINGUINUS IMPENNIS) FEATHERof Natural History / Taxidermy interest, a single feather, suspended in membrane display frame, together with a framed print of the Great Auk,the feather 3.2cm in length,CITES: Not listed The Great Auk formerly inhabited North Atlantic Coastal Waters, but has been extinct since 1852. A rare opportunity to acquire a specimen feather from this well known extinct species, one of only 14 feathers known to be in private hands across the world. Great auks were killed by rapacious hunters for food and bait, particularly during the early 1800s. Enormous numbers were captured, the birds often being driven up a plank and slaughtered on their way into the hold of a vessel. The last known specimens were killed in June 1844 at Eldey island, Iceland. About 80 great auks and a like number of their eggs are preserved in museums.The Clungunford Auk which this feather specimen comes from, was bought by John Rocke of Clungunford House in 1860, and subsequently sold by Rowland Ward on 8th May 1936 to keen ornithologist Captain Vivien Hewitt (1888–1965). Acquired by the current owner from the collection of celebrated taxidermist Barry Williams. One of only 14 feathers obtained from the specimen during restoration. A copy of the certificate of authenticity stating the provenance will be supplied to the buyer. For a detailed history of The Clungunford Great Auk specimen, see ‘The Greak Auk’ by Errol Fuller, p. 124-127.