Edwin Rist was a prodigal flautist and a legend within the fly-tying community. After moving to London to focus on his musical career, Rist took his obsession with exotic feathers and rare birds to a new level. In 2009, Rist broke into the British Natural History Museum at Tring, stealing over 200 exotic bird skins. Yet despite being only an amateur burglar, Rist was able to evade capture for over a year.

Author Kirk Johnson heard about the bizarre heist from within the fly fishing community, and took it upon himself to uncover the full story, detailing its significance in his book, The Feather Thief.

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