Environment & Energy

Judi Lynn

(160,545 posts) Fri Dec 13, 2019, 11:35 PM Dec 2019

Humans 'sole culprits' in US parrot extinction

Humans 'sole culprits' in US parrot extinction
By Paul Rincon
Science editor, BBC News website
13 December 2019

A genetic study of the US's only native parrot appears to confirm its extinction was down to humans alone.

Scientists sequenced the genome of a stuffed Carolina parakeet held in a private collection.

The colourful bird's DNA showed none of the signs of inbreeding characteristic of animals that have been in decline for many years.

Instead, its genetic sequence suggests populations were buoyant until the expansion of European settlers.

The parrots then disappeared abruptly, with the last captive specimen dying in Cincinnati Zoo on 21 February 1918. The bird was once found from New England in the east to Colorado in the west.

More:
https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-50764583

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Humans 'sole culprits' in US parrot extinction (Original Post) Judi Lynn Dec 2019 OP

This makes me furious & very sad. Duppers Dec 2019 #1

Same here, Duppers. Judi Lynn Dec 2019 #2

Duppers

(28,125 posts)

1. This makes me furious & very sad.

Reply to Judi Lynn (Original post)

Fri Dec 13, 2019, 11:38 PM

Dec 2019

Thanks for this info, Judi.

Judi Lynn

(160,545 posts)

2. Same here, Duppers.

Reply to Duppers (Reply #1)

Sat Dec 14, 2019, 04:54 AM

Dec 2019

Because people have made them members of their families, they have learned how intelligent they are.

What kind of idiot would dream of killing them?

In the tropical countries where they still live, knock on wood, people discover them repeating sounds they make, even coughing or vomiting.

I feel so angry and horrible for their stupid cruelty like you.

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