22nd Jul, 2010 10:00 GMT/BST
Summer Catalogue Sale
1200
Heath-Hen (Tympanuchus cupido cupido), Extinct, male, full mount, standing on lichen covered...
Heath-Hen was a distinctive sub-species of the Greater Prairie-Chicken, a large North American bird in the grouse family, or possibly a distinct species. They inhabited the scrubby heathland barrens of coastal North America. They were extremely common in colonial times, and were extensively hunted by settlers for food. By 1870 all Heath-Hens were lost from the mainland and by the late 1800's there were only about seventy left. After a final jump in numbers to around six hundred in 1920, the population began its final descent. in 1927 only about a dozen were left - a mere two being females, despite protection. By 1928 only one male survived, lovingly nicknamed Booming Ben. He was last seen on his traditional lekking ground between West Tisbury and today's Martha's Vineyard airport on March 11th 1932, and thus presumably died about eight years old of unknown causes. Heath-Hens were one of the first bird species that Americans tried to save from extinction. As early as 1791 a Bill For the Preservation of Heath-Hen and Other Game was introduced in the New York State Legislature.
Sold for £1,800
Estimated at £2,000 - £3,000
In very good overall condition, with the feather colour still good. Glazing replaced within last five years. 030610 Please note we are now selling this item as possibly being a Greater Prairie Chicken. As there are few comparative examples of Heath Hens it is difficult to be 100 percent sure on specie attribution. However, the vendor has informed the auctioneers that two American museums (to which the specimen was once offered) said that it was a Heath Hen, but that they had several examples and did not wish to purchase. Furthermore, the specimen, apparently within the last ten years, has been recased, and this was done by Morgans of Shrewsbury, who discovered an old label 'Heath Hen' when renovating it. It is quite possible that this may be a hybridised Heath Hen - but that the white feathers on the side of the wings, and the generally lighter plumage, are indicative that this is in all likelihood a Heath Hen. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to correct attribution, and this item is not subject to return. 200710
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