When in 1977 the East line of the Metro was built, the diggers found the 60cm beak of what then was thought to be a large Gull. Together with all the other useless bones and artifacts, these were dumped somewhere in the city's archive.
Only a byline of a guy, who was interested in what one could find in sewage tanks, (smelly job, lol.) in an article he had written on his finds, brought two birders from the local Seabirds group down to view the item.
(the line in brackets read:"Oh, and the large beak in the city's archive is not a Gull but an Albatross)
Around the date of the beak, 17 or 18 century, Amsterdam was on the route of the major shipping lines, which were in this time were really taking off. and that the bird's beak must
have travelled north this way seems almost certain.
The two birders even speak of albatross kept as pet on the decks. with so much obstacles, it was very hard for them to take off, and the sailors liked them with their wobbly walk and funny calls.
Very interesting posting Yoke, similar supersticions by seafarers not to harm albatrosses otherwise it will bring bad luck.
ReplyDeleteYes, I've heard that too.
ReplyDeleteAnd a good one also, especially when you are an Albatross!
Mind you, it is amazing what is hidden beneath it all.
An older relative talked about this folklore, and I doubted its truth. Looks like an apology is in order!
ReplyDelete*I Donate to Cornell Ornithology! Support the Future of Birding - Our Kids!*
http://www.opticsplanet.net/cornell-lab-of-ornithology.html
Hi 7seas.
ReplyDeleteWish my disability allowance would stretch as far as supporting another continent's bird organisation.
I'm having trouble already with all the Irish ones I support.