Extinct Birds

Extinct Birds

The extinct bird collection consists of 200 specimens of about 70 extinct bird species. These birds are kept either as dry study skins or stuffed skins. Most species became extinct in the 19th century, but there are also specimens that became extinct hundreds of years ago, such as the elephant bird. A highlight of the collection is the skeleton of a dodo, which is composed of several finds. A number of specimens are unique, such as the only known Tahitian sandpiper and the only known Sharpe’s rail in the world. Because of its unique composition, bird experts from all over the world are interested in this collection.