Punch,  56 (1869), 111.

A Sentimentalist on Sea and Land Birds

Anon

Genre:

Essay

Subjects:

Ornithology, Hunting, Breeding, Government, Politics, Cruelty, Environmentalism, Zoological Gardens, Zoology, Botany


    Discusses William H Sykes's introduction to the House of Commons of a 'Bill for the Preservation of Seabirds'. Complains that Sykes's bill does not include land-birds, and suggests that during their breeding period, small birds and game should be 'out of season'. After another swipe at the 'geese' who run sparrow clubs, notes that some people consider that there should not be a limit to the number of gamekeepers hired to destroy 'all varieties of the British fauna which they account vermin'. Adopts the opposite view, which supports the British Museum and the Zoological Society Gardens in their concern to preserve wildlife. The author acknowledges that his position might be sentimental but points out that if preserving such birds is 'all bosh' then so is zoology and botany. Notes that Sykes drew attention to the important roles played by gulls in the natural and social spheres.



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